Clothing design application suggestions with vegan leather

Rapid industrialization poses a threat to biodiversity and the existence of natural resources. Particularly in fashion, one of the sectors with the highest environmental impact, the concept of sustainability is gaining importance, and environmentally friendly production methods have begun to be implemented. In this context, concepts such as sustainable, ethical, ecological, and vegan fashion have entered the literature. The use of animal leather is incompatible with a sustainable and ethical fashion approach. This study evaluates designs created from different types of vegan leather commonly used in shoe, bag, and accessory production in terms of material and model compatibility. The aim is to create new applications for vegan leather in the fashion world and to offer design suggestions for clothing made from leather. This study examines the negative effects of animal leather production on the environment and worker health. Vegan leather, developed as an innovative and environmentally friendly material to address these issues, is evaluated within the framework of a sustainable fashion approach. Vegan leather production methods are discussed in detail, and the practices of renowned fashion brands and designers regarding the use of vegan leather are explained with visual support. During the implementation phase of the study, vegan leather design suggestions were presented, and these designs were examined in terms of model features, material selection, usability, and other features. To reflect cultural sustainability and tradition, and to add originality to the garments, floral motifs from Başnakkaş Kara Memi's Four Flower Style were incorporated into the designs using the encrustation technique. The aim was for vegan leather designs to contribute to both environmental and cultural sustainability. The study researched theses, articles, books, and electronic publications, and conducted a qualitative analysis of the work. The study's limitations stem from the examination of only specific vegan leather types and product groups. The research aims to raise awareness of environmentally friendly production methods and ecological fashion, thereby providing resources for future research on vegan leather.