INNOVERA vegan suede collection

A three-piece capsule using INNOVERA™ suede, made from plant protein and recycled rubber.

Project Overview

Project Client and Completion:
MELINA BUCHER
December 31, 2025
Conducted Services:
Textiles & Leather Goods
- Material Consulting
- Product Design
- Prototyping
- Production Management
Project Challenge:
Apply an entirely new suede alternative across multiple silhouettes and stress points.
Project Solution:
We crafted LOULOU, BAILEY, and TESSA in rich chocolate tones, balancing structure, softness, and sustainability.

Project Development

The Challenge

As suede made its return to the fashion spotlight, MELINA BUCHER set out to redefine the material category — replacing animal-based or microfiber suede with a plant-protein-based alternative that meets the demands of luxury design. The task: develop a collection of sculptural handbags using INNOVERA™, a new material developed by biotech company Modern Meadow. The collection needed to demonstrate performance, beauty, and sustainability in equal measure — while staying true to the brand’s aesthetic and made-to-order craftsmanship.

Our Solution

We designed and produced the first handbags worldwide crafted from INNOVERA™ Suede: LOULOU, BAILEY, and the TESSA East West Bag. Each model was selected to explore a different material challenge – from the soft drape of LOULOU’s half-moon body to the structured, reinforced form of BAILEY, which combines INNOVERA™ with ELEVATE™ at pressure points. TESSA adds a more elongated silhouette, showing how the suede behaves in angular and directional shapes.

INNOVERA™ is made from plant proteins, biopolymers, and recycled tire rubber. The material is soft, durable and even stronger than animal leather– all while offering over 80 % renewable or recycled carbon content. The bags were launched in deep chocolate tones and are available as made-to-order pieces via melinabucher.com, aligning with the brand’s commitment to slow luxury and responsible production

Materials

• INNOVERA™ Suede (plant-based proteins, recycled rubber)
• ELEVATE™ by UNCAGED (used for reinforcement in handles and side panels)
• Biobased interior and reinforcement materials

Methods

• Material testing and technical adaptation
• Prototyping across soft and structured silhouettes
• Color selection aligned with current suede trend
• Handcrafted, made-to-order production in German atelier

Highlights

• First-ever handbags made with INNOVERA™
• Launched October 2025 in three styles: LOULOU, BAILEY, and TESSA
• Combines sculptural design with a conscious suede alternative
• Set a new benchmark for vegan suede in luxury accessories