While the brand and its aesthetic has naturally shifted since its launch in 2016, its dedication to sustainability remains steadfast. “It goes beyond a physical product for us. Opting for low-impact textiles is just the start, and we’re mindful of how one bag is the sum of so many sets of hands, minds and environmental factors,” Janine explains. Rather than seeing sustainability as a burden, Janine and her team view it as an opportunity. “Creating responsibly makes for a more exciting design process. Instead of looking at the most convenient options and calling it a day, we get to innovate and explore new textiles and discover independent production studios.”

It’s this optimistic attitude and unconventional approach that has led Brie Leon to become a champion of bio-materials. Many of the label’s current designs use apple or corn leather, both of which use organic waste to reduce the brand’s reliance on recycled PU. “From conception to creation, we’re always looking at a better way of doing things. This could involve developing new packaging options or exploring other ways to repurpose waste. It might add a few steps to the normal design process, but it’s a non-negotiable at the end of the day,” she says.