From vineyard to wardrobe

Italy's wineries produce huge volumes of grape marc every harvest. In 2016 Italian architect Gianpiero Tessitore co-founded VEGEA to turn it into a plant-based leather alternative, and grape leather has since been used by fashion brands exploring bio-based materials.

How it's made

The grape marc is dried and ground, then mixed with binders and coated onto a fabric backing. The surface is finished with a leather-like grain and colour.

What it's made of

Made from grape waste, including skins, seeds, and stems left over from the wine industry. This waste is processed and combined with plant-based polymers to create a durable leather alternative. There is a high % of PU (plastic) in this material.

How it feels

Soft, flexible, and lightweight. Grape leather is durable, with a texture similar to traditional leather, making it suitable for various fashion applications.

Where it works

Popular for Accessories (bags, wallets), Footwear, and Apparel, especially in eco-conscious fashion brands.

Caring for it

Wipe clean with a damp cloth and avoid excessive moisture. Store in a dry area away from direct sunlight to maintain color.

Certification

Often certified by eco-labels like OEKO-TEX®, with some products meeting criteria for food and agricultural waste recycling standards.