Kolkata-based women-owned brand transforms agricultural waste into premium vegan leather accessories, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional leather and plastic-based materials.

Kolkata, India: La Baggio, a Kolkata-based women-owned fashion brand, has launched a new collection of handbags and accessories crafted from plant-based vegan leather bags derived from agricultural waste. By giving crop residue a second life, the brand aims to demonstrate how agricultural by-products can be transformed into high-quality fashion accessories while supporting a more circular economy.

The launch comes at a time when consumers are increasingly seeking sustainable alternatives to conventional leather and questioning products marketed as vegan leather bags that are largely made from synthetic plastics. La Baggio’s latest collection offers an alternative by incorporating plant-based materials derived from agricultural waste into its products.

Founded by mother-daughter duo Bhavna Belani and Nikita Belani, La Baggio builds on over three decades of expertise in leather craftsmanship. Rather than continuing with conventional leather manufacturing, the family chose to reinvent the business around innovative plant-based materials without compromising on quality, craftsmanship or design.

A Personal Journey Towards Sustainable Fashion

The transition to plant-based materials began with a simple question within the family. As a teenager, co-founder Nikita Belani questioned the environmental and ethical impact of conventional leather, encouraging the family to rethink the future of their long-established business.

“Growing up around the leather industry gave us a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, but it also made us aware of the industry’s environmental challenges,” said Nikita Belani, Co-founder of La Baggio. “We wanted to create products that people could carry with pride—not only because they look beautiful, but because they represent a more thoughtful way of making fashion.”

Today, La Baggio works with suppliers who convert agricultural residue into innovative plant-based materials, helping create value from crop waste that might otherwise be discarded or burned.

Combining Heritage Craftsmanship with Innovation

La Baggio’s products are handcrafted using techniques refined through decades of leather manufacturing experience while embracing next-generation sustainable materials.

The collection includes handbags, totes, sling bags, wallets, laptop bags, clutches and accessories designed for everyday use, professional settings and corporate gifting.

The brand’s approach is built on several key principles:

* Plant-based materials derived from agricultural waste.
* PETA-approved, cruelty-free products.
* Traditional craftsmanship developed over three decades.
* Small-batch manufacturing with careful attention to quality.
* Products designed for durability, functionality and timeless style.

Sustainability Beyond the Material

For La Baggio, sustainability extends beyond replacing animal leather.

By supporting the use of agricultural waste as a raw material, the brand contributes to creating economic value for agricultural by-products while encouraging more responsible material sourcing. The production process also avoids conventional chrome tanning associated with traditional leather manufacturing.

“Our goal was never simply to replace leather,” added Nikita Belani. “We wanted to rethink the entire journey of a product—from the materials we use to the impact it creates. We believe sustainability and luxury can exist together.”

Growing Recognition

Since its launch, La Baggio has received recognition from organisations including the Indian Leather Products Association, FICCI, India’s MSME Ministry, and TiE Kolkata, where the company was selected to represent the region at the TiE Global Pitch in Dubai.

The brand continues to expand its presence across India through its direct-to-consumer platform, corporate gifting partnerships and international business opportunities.

Looking Ahead

La Baggio plans to continue investing in innovative plant-based materials while expanding its product portfolio and global reach. As demand for conscious fashion grows, the company aims to demonstrate that sustainable materials and premium craftsmanship can work hand in hand.

About La Baggio

Founded in 2019 by Bhavna Belani and Nikita Belani, La Baggio is a Kolkata-based women-owned vegan fashion brand creating handbags, wallets and accessories from plant-based materials derived from agricultural waste. Backed by more than 30 years of leather manufacturing expertise, the brand combines traditional craftsmanship with innovative sustainable materials to create products that are cruelty-free, functional and thoughtfully designed.

For more information, visit www.labaggio.com.

Media Contact

Nikita Belani
Co-founder, La Baggio
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.labaggio.com