The new season brings the urge to purchase new items; clothing, accessories, shoes. One of the most eco-friendly and ethical ways to embrace the new season is to buy LESS. Invest in sustainable statement pieces that can be added to your existing wardrobe, elevating it to incorporate a summer style without excess waste. These statement pieces will remain in your wardrobe for future seasons.
Speaking of statement pieces, we had the opportunity to interview Founder of GUNAS, Sugandh about her luxury designer sustainable handbags. Take a minute to read below and stay tuned for part two that features a review on this season’s ”it” bag!
What is the inspiration behind the aesthetic of GUNAS styles?
GUNAS is all about celebrating the existence and beauty of nature. That is where I find my inspiration for the bags. I’m also inspired by classic silhouettes and design cues that people have loved over the years. My influence also comes from my own cultural background of having been born and raised in India. Vibrant colors, natural earthy tones combined with animal textures is something I really enjoy incorporating into my collections.
Your bags do not contain harmful PVC or Vinyl. Could you share more on Mulbtex and how that was discovered as a sustainable, plastic free alternative?
I discovered Mulbtex during my travels to Korea where they were using Mulberry leaf pulp to make thin strong paper films to create light fixtures. I found an alternative use of this material to create handbags. Even though there are several plant based materials now coming up in the market, I personally and strongly believe that lab grown leather is going to be the future. Pineapple, cactus, apple etc are all going to become cash crops if this industry rises and it will only lead to more deforestation.
What would you say to someone who is skeptical of the quality of vegan material as alternatives to leather?
I would say that the material industry has come a long way. Many of us use faux leather in other areas of our lives without even realising. A great example is the upholstery industry. Furniture and now car interiors are made from luxury faux leather. They can withstand wear and tear. Why would anyone want to hurt a living creature and carry around their carcasses when you can have a beautiful functional handbag made from the same luxury materials that the auto and furniture industry use?! We are all in awe of companies like Tesla who only use vegan materials in their interiors. We consider that sustainable. Sadly, the fashion industry has brainwashed us to believe that only real leather can be stylish and luxurious. There is nothing luxurious about killing an animal in the name of fashion. It is unnecessary.
GUNAS is a disruptor in the fashion industry, not just for the alternative materials, but the dedication to ethical and kind practices. Your successful brand has been in business for over 10 years! What do you hope other brands learn from your business model and hopefully emulate?
Do not try to grow too quickly. Try to focus on creating a great product first and your customers will become your biggest sales force. I also see many brands greenwashing and selling cheap PU and PVC bags as vegan. Please do your research on materials, good factories, and continue educating the customer about your choices. You can not have perfection every time though and at times you will need to choose between what is right and survival. It’s all about making the better choice at that point in time. Stay organized, focus, and find what drives you and keeps you grounded. Being an entrepreneur can be a long, lonely journey. Do not forget to balance work with life and share it with the people you love.
As a woman run business, could you please share any advice for other women interested in starting their own company?
Running my own business has really allowed me to have the best of both worlds; being a boss and a mom. I am able to enjoy both the roles and run things at my own pace. Women have natural strengths when it comes to being organized and multi-tasking and I think we should totally use this to our advantage. But while we are at it, we must not forget to make self-care a huge part of our regime. Whether it is doing yoga, going for long walks, spending time with nature… whatever works for you. Be mindful of the sharks because there are many out there. We must know how to plan our finances and prioritize what is best for the business. Always keep saving for the business. SBA is a great resource for women owned businesses. You can also work towards getting a women owned business certification from the state.
