Varsha Savla

Apple Discontinues Leather and Here's Why Consumers are Not Satisfied & aren't Buying into the Leatherless Future Few days back Apple officially discontinued its classic leather accessories & since then it has ignited a heated discussion among end consumers. As the tech giant aligns with its ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030, it's shaking up the accessory game with a shift towards so called eco-friendly alternatives. But does this signify a genuine commitment to sustainability or a disregard for consumer preferences? What do I mean by this? ✔ In a recent ad, Apple symbolically exploded leather letters, signaling the end of an era dominated by animal-derived materials. ✔ Apple has also eradicated all traces of leather from its official website. While this move reflects Apple's dedication to reducing its environmental footprint, it has also left consumers divided. Here's Why ▪ Despite the timeless appeal of leather accessories, Apple's decision to phase them out has left many longing for comparable alternatives. ▪ The introduction of FineWoven cases, constructed from durable microtwill, incorporating 68 % post-consumer recycled materials, aims to offer an eco-conscious option. However, with a price tag of $59, end consumers argue that these alternatives lack ✔ The premium feel and ✔ Aesthetic appeal that comes with leather. With Earth Day approaching this Monday, anticipation mounts for further sustainability initiatives from Apple. But as the company strives to balance environmental concerns with consumer expectations, one question remains: ❓ Can eco-friendly alternatives truly satisfy the demands of discerning consumers? ❓ Do you support Apple's decision? ❓ Can such eco-friendly alternatives truly replace leather? ❓ Also Let me know what you think of the following business IDEA ➡ Is there a potential market for third-party, high-quality leather accessories specifically designed for Apple users? Using this as a foundational story behind the brand? Let me know your thoughts in the comment section. #Apple #Leather #Sustainability #Innovation #SustainableMaterials #TechTrends

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Good innovation drives industries forward by bringing about positive change. And that couldn’t be more true for the fashion industry. Here are a few innovations that are helping make fashion more sustainable. 👉🏼Lenzing’s closed loop system used to produce Lyocell Lyocell is a more breathable and durable alternative to cotton, made from wood pulp. Lenzing uses wood pulp from sustainable forestry and uses organic solvent to dissolve the wood pulp. But here’s the best part, the closed chemical loop technology developed by Lenzing enables more than 90% of the organic solvent to be recovered and fed back into the production process. This innovation helps in avoiding any harmful disposal and reducing the need for new resources. 👉🏼 Recycled textiles Most of the recycled polyester we see is made from recycling plastic waste, and a lot of brands use this to make their products. Adidas, for example, uses ocean plastic waste to make some of their sneakers. The items are melted down into pellets before being spun into new yarn. Only issue though, is that this mechanical process of recycling cannot be performed again and again. 👉🏼 Textile-to-textile recycling might be the best alternative once scalable It is done by chemical methods, and uses less energy than producing virgin materials. This process turns hard-to-recycle blended garments into new virgin-like materials and keeps them in circulation. It can create a sustainable fashion system by contributing to the circular fashion economy. Companies like Worn Again Technologies are aiming to create a more scalable chemical recycling process. There are still challenges like handling of chemicals, sourcing garments to recycle and more that limit the scalability of this solution. As we can see there is a lot of potential in this space, and fast fashion companies like H&M have already invested in this recycling process. But this idea is still in its early phase so let's see how it'll transform the fashion industry! . . #fastfashion #circularfashion #recycling #recycledtextile

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🌿 Bamboo fabrics might be the game-changer the fashion industry needs. At Echo Earth, we're exploring how this underutilized resource can address some of the biggest environmental challenges in textiles. Despite India being a leading bamboo producer, its potential in fashion remains largely untapped. Find out why bamboo should be on everyone’s radar and how it could reshape the future of what we wear. 🌱 Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/daZyb4tX

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🚀 Indian Textile Industry Prepares for Global ESG Mandates with Innovative Training Initiative! 🌍 The Indian textile industry is at a turning point, facing increasing sustainability mandates from global markets like the European Union and adapting to evolving national regulations. Recognizing this critical need, the Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) has launched its inaugural Management Development Programme on Environmental, Social, and Governance (MDP-ESG). 🗓️ Event Recap: Hosted at the Bombay Textile Research Association (BTRA) in Mumbai, this groundbreaking three-day programme brought together industry leaders, academics, and experts to explore the complex landscape of ESG compliance. With dynamic discussions and strategic insights, the event set a new benchmark for the future of India's textile sector. 💬 Key Highlights: Opening Address: Ms. Chandrima Chatterjee, Secretary General of CITI, kicked off the event, emphasizing the importance of ESG integration in the industry. Expert Insights: Sessions led by industry stalwarts like Shri Sunil Patwari, Chairman of TEXPROCIL, Dr. Siddhartha Rajagopalan, Executive Director of TEXPROCIL, and Mukesh Garg from Monash University, provided in-depth perspectives on sustainability, circular economy practices, and global ESG standards. Focus Areas: Day 1: Environmental sustainability, sustainable water management, chemical compliance, and life cycle assessment. Day 2: Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and sustainability governance, with insights into practices between India and Australia. Day 3: Human rights and international standards, including the National Guidelines on Responsible Business Conduct (NGRBC) and Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting (BRSR). 🌟 Why It Matters: This initiative is not just a response to regulatory demands but a proactive step towards positioning India’s textile industry as a global leader in sustainability. As the world moves towards stricter ESG compliance, programs like MDP-ESG are vital in equipping industry managers with the knowledge and tools to meet these challenges head-on. Kudos to CITI for spearheading this transformative initiative! 🌱 #WorldTextileHub #Sustainability #ESG #TextileIndustry #CITI #CircularEconomy #SustainableDevelopment #ResponsibleBusiness https://lnkd.in/dnsHbcZ9

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The trend of fast fashion has led to a contribution of 10% in the total global carbon emissions with 85% of all textiles going to dumps each year, says Business Insider. Being a part of the fashion industry, I feel responsible for the environmental impact we're making. Therefore, we at Kapraãha India and Reyya practice slow fashion and take all the measures to lower our impact on the Earth. One of our initiatives is my thrift store. Thrifting promotes sustainability, reduces waste, and allows us to not just express but share our unique style without compromising the planet. Kapraaha Thrift Store is close to my heart because it aligns perfectly with our mission to embrace fashion that’s not only beautiful but also responsible. It offers a curated selection of pre-loved pieces, giving them a second life and offering you the chance to find something truly special from my closet. Join us in this movement towards sustainable fashion. Let's make conscious choices and show that style and sustainability can go hand in hand. Also mention your ways to lower your Carbon Footprint in the comments, so that we all can learn more! #SustainableFashion #Thrifting #Kapraãha #REYYA #Fashion #Revolution #EcoFriendly #Reduce #Reuse #Recycle

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What does it take to ensure that every thread in a garment tells a meaningful story? Creating garments isn’t just about how they look; it’s about how they come to life. Here are a few thoughts on what goes into designing with intention: ^ Sourcing with care: Choosing sustainable and ethically produced fabrics ensures their journey begins responsibly. ^ Honouring craftsmanship: Every piece collaborates with artisans, weaving traditional techniques into contemporary designs. ^ Reducing impact: From natural dyes to minimizing waste, each step is a chance to lessen the environmental footprint. ^ Designing with purpose: The goal is to create garments that aren’t just worn—they’re cherished, connecting the wearer to art, culture, and sustainability. This process transforms fabric into something truly special. What stories do you want me to consider when creating to make my creations more meaningful? #SustainableFashion #DesignProcess #WearableArt #ThoughtfulDesign

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There’s more to it than what’s mentioned here, recently a prominent institution had called the companies that are coming in for for the placement to hike their package. They were telling the companies that the Undergraduate program would demand a base of 7.5 LPA for its candidates. For a moment I thought it was for the Post graduate programs. I was wrong. Along with me, 2 prominent business owners had received calls, one a luxury jewellery brand that’s been in business for over a century, and another luxury leather manufacturing business with multiple brands under them. Now the thing is not about “7.5 lpa” that we are challenging, but the worthiness of the candidates the institution produces with respect to its previous track record. No business in their right mind would be willing to offer 7.5 LPA to someone who is not Industry ready, and no matter what amount of “exposure” and “skill” they were imparted with, it simply can’t hold a candle to what the market actually wants. Long story short, fashion institutions in India need a hard look at themselves, before unintentionally ruining career scabalility prospects for its students as no company justify spoon feeding freshers and pay them 65 and over every month.

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Creating high-quality leather bags, like those from Unicon Leather in Kolkata, involves several key steps. Here’s a general guide to help you or someone else interested in making leather bags: 1. Research and Design Market Research: Understand the most popular styles, materials, and trends in the leather bag market. Sketch Your Ideas: Create designs that reflect your vision, including dimensions and features (like pockets, straps, and closures). 2. Material Selection Choose Quality Leather: Invest in high-quality leather with good texture and durability. Common choices include full-grain, top-grain, or suede leather. Lining and Accessories: Select appropriate lining materials (e.g., cotton or polyester) and consider hardware like zippers, buckles, and rivets. 3. Tools and Equipment Basic Tools: Acquire essential leatherworking tools like a cutting mat, rotary cutter, ruler, scissors, leather punch, needles, and thread. Sewing Machine: A heavy-duty sewing machine designed for leather can greatly improve efficiency and quality. 4. Pattern Making Create Patterns: Use your sketches to create patterns out of paper or cardboard. Ensure they are accurate and fit together well. Test Fit: Consider making a prototype using less expensive materials to test the design and functionality. 5. Cutting the Leather Precise Cutting: Use your patterns to cut the leather accurately. Ensure clean, straight edges for a polished look. Avoid Waste: Plan your cuts to minimize leather waste. 6. Preparation Edge Finishing: Trim and smooth out the edges of the leather pieces. You can use tools like edge tools or sanders for this. Conditioning Leather: Use leather conditioner to keep the material supple. 7. Assembly Assembly Order: Follow a logical sequence (e.g., pockets first, then the body of the bag). Gluing: Use leather cement to hold parts in place temporarily before sewing. Sewing: Use a saddle stitch or machine stitching to secure the pieces together. Ensure each seam is uniform. 8. Finishing Touches Hardware Installation: Attach any zippers, buckles, or other hardware. Cleaning Up: Clean up any excess glue, polish the leather, and apply a protective finish to enhance durability and appearance. 9. Quality Control Inspection: Check the final product for any defects, uneven stitching, or flaws in design. Testing Durability: Make sure the bag meets functionality and durability standards. 10. Marketing and Selling Branding: Create a unique brand identity for your bags. Online Presence: Utilize social media and online marketplaces to showcase and sell your products. Local Markets: Consider participating in local crafts fairs or boutique stores in Kolkata to reach potential customers. https://lnkd.in/dcxEzu3w

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🌍 This #EarthDay, let's delve deeper than the surface of a leather handbag with the help of some data we collected from our friends at Collective Fashion Justice 🚫 Almost 90% of leather is tanned with harmful chromium sulphate. 💧 One leather handbag bears a water footprint of over 17,000L—equivalent to around 537 showers. 📈 With a CO2e emission 7 times higher than synthetic alternatives, traditional leather's environmental toll is steep. 🐮 Beyond the environmental cost, there's an ethical one: 1.5 billion animals are used yearly for leather, each with their own story. 💸 It's not just a "by-product"—leather is an independent multi-billion-dollar industry tied to deforestation and suffering. 🌱Plant-based leather alternatives can have a climate impact of up to 52 times smaller than cow skin leather. #EthicalFashion #TheCostBehindLeather #EarthDayAwareness

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🌱 Exploring the Difference Between Vegan and Plant-Based Leather! 🌱 Exciting to see the spotlight on the sustainable leather industry in The Times of India, including a mention of our work at Aamati Green. 🌍 At Aamati, we’re pushing the boundaries of what’s possible by transforming mango waste into a high-quality plant-based leather alternative. Vegan leather, often made from synthetic materials like PVC or PU, is a step toward sustainability, but true plant-based leather, made from natural and renewable sources, goes even further in reducing our environmental impact. This approach not only lessens the carbon footprint but also minimizes reliance on petroleum-based materials. While plant-based leather is gaining momentum globally, we’re dedicated to increasing awareness and accessibility in India. It’s exciting to be part of this transformation and to see demand for sustainable alternatives rising worldwide. Thank you, The Times of India, for shedding light on the essential distinction between vegan and plant-based leather. Let’s keep the conversation going on sustainable materials! 🌍💚 #Sustainability #EcoFriendly #PlantBasedLeather #AamatiGreen #Innovation #CircularEconomy #GreenFashion #SustainableMaterials

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India is weaving a new future for fashion—where tradition meets sustainability. With government-backed initiatives and eco-conscious practices, artisans are leading the way to a greener industry. Curious to learn how policies are shaping sustainable fashion in India? Give it a read! 🌍✨ #SustainableFashion #GreenIndia #ArtisanEmpowerment #EcoFriendly #ReadMore

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How Indian Textiles Are Shaping Modern Fashion Fashion is a dynamic industry, constantly evolving, yet some elements remain timeless. Indian fabrics are one such element—rich in history, yet increasingly relevant in today's global fashion landscape. These textiles, from the intricate weaves of Banarasi silk to the earthy tones of khadi, are no longer confined to traditional wear. They are making a mark in Western fashion, and it’s a trend that’s here to stay. What makes Indian fabrics so special? It’s the blend of artistry and authenticity. Each piece tells a story, not just of the material, but of the hands that crafted it, the traditions that shaped it. As Western designers seek to infuse more meaning into their collections, Indian textiles offer a unique opportunity to create garments that are not only beautiful but also culturally significant. For fashion brands and designers looking to stand out, embracing Indian textiles is a way to connect with consumers on a deeper level. It’s about offering something authentic, something that resonates with the growing demand for sustainability and cultural appreciation. We’re excited to see how Indian fabrics will shape the future of global fashion. This is more than a passing influence—it’s a movement that honors tradition while embracing the future. #IndianTextiles #GlobalFashion #SustainableStyle #CulturalHeritage #FashionInnovation #ZYOD #FashionIndustry

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🎓 Why Fashion Education is the Future of the Industry 👗📚 As someone who’s spent years immersed in the fashion industry—from Bollywood sets to creative design—one thing has become crystal clear: fashion is constantly evolving. But while trends may change with the seasons, the foundation of fashion—its education—remains essential. Fashion isn’t just about what we wear; it’s about understanding culture, history, and innovation. It’s about empowering people to express themselves and build confidence. And I’ve realized that the next step in my journey is sharing that knowledge with others. Here’s why I believe fashion education is the cornerstone of the industry’s future: • It bridges the gap between creativity and commerce. • It gives rising talents the tools to thrive in a competitive industry. • It equips professionals with the confidence to push boundaries, rethink designs, and shape the future of fashion. My goal? To bring my real-world experiences into classrooms, workshops, and institutions. I want to help students and budding designers not only learn the craft but also understand the business and mindset behind it. If you’re in the fashion education space or looking for someone who can bridge the gap between industry and academia, let’s collaborate! I’m ready to inspire, teach, and mentor the next wave of fashion innovators. #FashionEducation #FashionIndustry #Workshops #GuestLectures #FashionFuture #CreativeLearning #Mentorship #MansiMalhotra

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The recent decision by the Union government to impose a minimum import price on MMF knitted fabrics is a crucial step in protecting the domestic textile industry. This move will help curb under-invoicing and prevent dumping, ensuring a level playing field for domestic manufacturers. Read what our industry experts are trying to say here. Piyush Goyal (मोदी का परिवार) Rakesh Mehra Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) Gurudas Aras Sanjay K Jain Sundararaman K S Prashant Agarwal #TextileIndustry #ImportPrice #MMF #KnittedFabrics #GovernmentIntervention #DomesticManufacturers #Dumping #ImportDuty #KnittingSegment #FabricProduction #JobMarket #FairTrade

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Fabric selection is a fundamental aspect of fashion design that can significantly impact the final outcome of a garment. It goes beyond mere aesthetics and encompasses a range of factors such as comfort, functionality, and visual appeal. When selecting fabrics for my clients, I carefully consider factors such as texture, weight, drape, durability, and care requirements. #CampDavidFashion #ZambianTailor

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Meet the women who created leather from banana peels! Yes, you read that right. Banana peels. I'm talking about Banofi Leather, a plant-based leather made from banana peels. Banofi is the creation of Atma Leather, an Indian startup founded by Jinali Mody, a Yale School of the Environment alumna. She was looking for a sustainable leather bag, but couldn't find one that met her standards. She realized that most vegan leather was made from petrochemical sources, which are neither biodegradable nor compostable. She also learned that India produces 350 million tonnes of agricultural waste every year, most of which is burnt or left to rot, causing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. India is the world's biggest banana producer, and 80% of the banana plant ends up wasted - around 120 million tonnes. She saw an opportunity to solve two problems at once: create a leather alternative that is eco-friendly and cruelty-free, and use the abundant banana crop waste as a raw material. She pitched her idea at Startup Yale in 2022, and won the audience choice award in the sustainability category, along with $25,000 in funding. She then returned to India to launch Atma Leather and developed Banofi. This plant-based leather uses green chemistry principles to transform banana waste into fibers, which are then processed into leather-like sheets. Banofi is not only vegan and cruelty-free but also eco-friendly and circular. Compared to animal leather, it reduces CO2 emissions by 90%, and water consumption by 90%, and avoids toxic chemicals like chromium and H2S. It also helps local farmers and communities by cleaning up their waste, preventing emissions, and providing them with extra income. Banofi is currently used to make purses, wallets, and notebooks, and is testing for shoe applications. It has a smooth and soft texture and a natural brown color. This innovation blows me away, and I think it has a huge potential to disrupt the leather industry. What do you think? Would you buy a product made from Banofi? #banofi #leather #innovation #sustainability #womenentrepreneur #founder

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The Excitement of New Designs! As designers, that first cut into fresh fabric always brings a rush of emotions. The questions start flooding in: Is this the right move? Do you think it will turn out as envisioned? Can we make it work? What will the final piece look like? It's true, that the design process can be daunting from the inside. But what keeps us going? What fuels our motivation? It's our unwavering patience and passion for creation. Every snip and stitch is a step closer to bringing our ideas to life. Each design is a journey—an exploration of possibilities and creativity. Despite the uncertainties, we persist because we love the challenge and the thrill of seeing our concepts materialize. #DesignJourney #CreativityUnleashed #PatienceInProcess

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