UNCAGED Innovations, a pioneer in the utilization of grains for sustainable leather production, has unveiled ELEVATE, a new luxury alternative to traditional leather. This initiative is part of The UNCAGED Collective, which collaborates with ten independent fashion brands from around the world, enabling them to use their biobased leather in various products, including wallets and watch straps. The collaborating brands represent nine countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, Argentina, Mexico, India, Australia, South Africa, and the United States, and have been selected for their commitment to sustainability and reduction of animal product use in their manufacturing processes.
Central to UNCAGED’s innovative approach is its proprietary technology platform, BioFuze. This platform integrates biomaterial manufacturing with an emphasis on creating a customizable leather alternative that closely resembles the texture and performance of conventional leather. Unlike other companies that primarily utilize carbohydrates—which do not mimic the structural properties of skin—ELEVATE combines grain proteins with plant-based elements designed to emulate collagen, the main protein found in animal hides.
The UNCAGED Collective aims to democratize access to next-generation materials, traditionally available only to larger brands. By partnering with boutique labels, the initiative seeks to introduce a diverse array of products, including jewelry, handbags, and wallets, to the market.
Stephanie Downs, CEO and Co-Founder of UNCAGED, emphasized the growing importance of sustainability in consumer and business practices. “There is an increasing trend of collaborations between established brands and innovative start-ups aimed at delivering sustainable solutions to consumers. However, the time taken for these partnerships to yield market-ready products can be lengthy. Our mission with The UNCAGED Collective is to swiftly provide smaller brands with access to our bio-based leather alternatives,” she stated.
Marco Dal Maso, Design Director and Founder of MARCO DAL MASO, noted the importance of finding materials that align with both sustainability and luxury. “UNCAGED provides an alternative leather product that can be customized to meet specific needs, such as fragrance, stretch, and biodegradability, while still achieving the aesthetic appeal of traditional leather,” he remarked.
With ELEVATE, UNCAGED Innovations aims to not only provide a viable alternative to traditional leather but also foster a more sustainable fashion industry by making innovative materials accessible to a wider range of brands.
