Father's Day: How to Get Your Dad into Sustainable Style in 2022
Raise your hand if your dad is vegan. No hands? Not even you in the corner? Okay, that's understandable – if you're old enough to be shopping on this website, chances are your parents are from a generation that grew up without seitan burgers readily available in the chilled section of the supermarket, and struggle to familiarise themselves with things like cactus leather or vegan silk.
By Sascha Camilli: writer, speaker, activist and vegan fashion expert.
But not all is lost – after all, it's been proven that men spend more on sustainable fashion than women, so there may be hope for Dad yet. As Father's Day approaches and gift shopping beckons, why not take the opportunity to showcase the variety, versatility and comfort of vegan fashion? That Piñatex watch or apple-leather wallet might be just the catalyst your dad needs to take the step towards a more planet-conscious wardrobe – and thus inspire his dad friends during their next round of golf (or whatever dad-appropriate pastime is high on your father's agenda). One big step for him (and you), one small step for dadkind everywhere.
We've rounded up some gifts that aren't only a thrill to unwrap on the big day, but that will also stand the test of time (i.e actually be used, instead of tossed in the back of the wardrobe following a strained “thank you”).
Votch Classic Gold and White Dial Black Piñatex Vegan Leather Strap Watch
A watch might just be the perfect dad gift, and this design in pineapple leather from Votch adds that updated hint of style that, let's face it, is missing from most paternal wardrobes. Classic and understated yet polished, it's the gift that will win you the crown of favourite child.
Watson & Wolfe Vegan Leather Travel Document Wallet
Travel may be back on the cards for summer – but even if it's not, this passport holder will make your dad dream of better jet-setting times to come. And that's before he even learns about how it's made – with eco-friendly non-food grade corn and lined with recycled plastic.
LittleLeaf Organic Men's Organic Cotton Sateen Pyjamas Set Olive
The ultimate in simple luxury: a good night's sleep. That's exactly what your dad will enjoy in this organic-cotton pyjamas set that's comfortable and roomy, yet polished. And sound sleep is guaranteed with the knowledge that organic cotton is much kinder to the environment than conventional cotton, due to using less water and fewer pesticides.
Watson & Wolfe Three-Piece Construction Cork Vegan Belt
You can never go wrong with a belt, especially when it incorporates one of the most environmentally beneficial materials on the planet: cork. A renewable, biodegradable resource, cork may just be the kindest leather replacement available on the market today. If that's not a style statement, we don't know what is.
Ashoka AppleSkin Vegan Leather Wallet | Black
A sleek accessory that fits easily in a pocket, this card holder (which comes in a few different colours) will be a conversation starter: it's made with apple leather, which reuses discarded apple peels from the fruit and juicing industry. It also incorporates recycled plastic bottles. Your dad is one Visa-swipe away from officially being dubbed the “cool” one among all his dad friends.
Clockface Beauty Post Shave Balm – Elemi and Black Pepper
Whether your dad shaves religiously or is the proud owner of a beard, this soothing balm will bring a welcome calming effect to remove post-shaving irritations. Then, once you're done explaining to him what the difference between vegan and cruelty-free beauty is – and why this product is both things – shaving will become even more of a pleasure. Plus, it just looks nice in the bathroom cabinet.
The White T-Shirt Co Mixed Organic Cotton Fitted Long Sleeve T-Shirt
A pared-back, neutral top is perhaps one of the most versatile garments of a man's wardrobe: it can look effortless when teamed with jeans, or dressed up with a blazer. Remind your dad that no sheep had to suffer for this wool-free tee that will look cool – not cruel – with anything that's already in his wardrobe.
BOITA Vegan Leather Backpack/Briefcase Limited Edition Olive
Whether for work or a weekend getaway, nothing says 'travel in style' like this vegan-leather design – it's versatile enough to double as a briefcase for office days and a backpack for commuting or leisure. What's more, it's lined with recycled plastic bottles, with one single bag contributing to recycle 15 bottles.
Gentleberg Rob(bert) Vegan Leather Cap Toe Derby
Elegant and easy to wear at the same time, this is the timeless design that will add polish to any of Dad's looks. This Derby style is made from PVC-free vegan leather and lined with breathable microfiber, with a memory foam insole for maximum comfort. This is one gift that will stay in his wardrobe for many Father's Days to come.
By Sascha Camilli
Feature image of Dirk Vegan Leather Trainer | White by Gentleberg
For more men's gift ideas, see our Vegan Gifts for Him and Men's Vegan Gifts edits, and our Men's Vegan Shoes, Men's Vegan Bags and Men's Vegan Accessories collections.
About Sascha
Sascha Camilli is a vegan fashion writer, speaker and activist. Her book Vegan Style is out now on Murdoch Books. For more about Sascha, you can read our interview with her. You can also follow her on Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.
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