Stella McCartney debuts first vegan bag made from naturally grown banana plants

Stella McCartney has debuted her first-ever vegan bag made from banana plants.

The designer’s iconic Logo tote bag has been reimagined for Autumn 2023 using an innovative material dubbed Bananatex.

Priced at £1,350, the luxury item boasts an intricate burgundy red and ivory white ‘Fungi Forest toile de Jouy print’.

It also features stainless steel and recycled brass hardware, faux-suede lining, and a detachable pouch.

Turning banana plants into clothes

Made purely from naturally grown Abacá banana plants… Bananatex says it has created a ‘truly circular alternative to the synthetic fabrics that dominate the market today’.

“Cultivated in the Philippine highlands within a natural ecosystem of sustainable mixed agriculture and forestry, the plant is self-sufficient, requires no pesticides, fertilizer or extra water,” the brand said.

“These qualities have allowed it to contribute to reforestation in areas once eroded due to monocultural palm plantations, whilst enhancing biodiversity and the economic prosperity of its farmers.”

Stella McCartney 

McCartney has become well-known for her dedication to animal rights and sustainability efforts, and has never sold bags made from real animal leather.

Earlier this year, the designer debuted unveiled a ‘revolutionary’ garment made from plant-based sequins, which landed her the cover of Vogue. 

Partnering with eco start-up Radiant Matter, the duo created a sleeveless jumpsuit using Biosequin.

The biodegradable and non-toxic material is innovated from plant-based cellulose. It uses no metals, minerals, synthetic pigments or colorants.

Not sure what to wear? Check out our Spring/Summer 2023 vegan style guide

Featured image © Stella McCartney