Materials, Sustainability & Craftsmanship

At CHIU STYLE, we believe thoughtful design begins with the materials we choose, how we work with them and how a product is made.

Our approach brings together plant-based materials, crochet techniques and considered construction to create distinctive accessories designed for everyday use and long-term enjoyment.

We see sustainability as an ongoing process rather than a finished destination. As our materials, techniques and designs evolve, we continue to explore practical ways to make more considered choices.

01 — Materials

Plant-Based Leather

At CHIU STYLE, we explore plant-based alternatives to traditional leather, with a focus on thoughtful material choices, distinctive design and practical everyday use.

Our plant-based leather incorporates natural latex-based materials and our proprietary Lentle material, developed through our ongoing exploration of plant-based leather alternatives.

Lentle forms part of our approach to material innovation, allowing us to investigate new possibilities in plant-based leather while maintaining the distinctive character and practical qualities of our products.

We see material development as an ongoing process. By combining plant-based materials with considered construction techniques, we continue to explore new ways of creating distinctive accessories while reducing reliance on conventional animal leather.

Exploring Materials

We are interested not only in where a material comes from, but also in how it can be worked into a product.

As CHIU STYLE develops, we continue to explore different plant-based and lower-impact materials that can offer interesting possibilities for texture, structure, durability and design.

Our material choices are considered alongside the construction and intended use of each product, rather than treated as a separate aspect of the design process.

02 — Craftsmanship

Crochet Construction

Crochet is an integral part of CHIU STYLE’s design language, allowing us to explore texture, structure and distinctive surface details across our accessories.

Our current designs use crochet techniques to connect materials through carefully positioned openings in the plant-based leather, creating tactile structures that are both functional and distinctive.

Different crochet patterns and construction methods allow us to develop variations in texture, rhythm and visual character across the collection.

The crochet technique is not simply a decorative detail. It forms part of how our accessories are constructed, giving us the flexibility to explore different materials, patterns and forms as the collection evolves.

From preparing and cutting the components to crocheting, assembling and finishing each accessory, we remain closely involved in the making process and pay careful attention to the details that shape each finished piece.

03 — Sustainability

Designed for Longevity

We believe thoughtful design should go beyond seasonal trends.

CHIU STYLE creates distinctive accessories with a refined retro character, designed to remain relevant and enjoyable to use over time.

Rather than following short-lived trends, we focus on considered forms and distinctive details that can become part of everyday life for years to come.

For us, longevity is not only about how long a product lasts. It is also about creating something worth keeping, using and returning to over time.

Responsible Production

We believe responsible production begins with understanding where materials come from and how products are made.

Where practical, we source materials from suppliers in the UK, helping us work with materials available closer to our London studio.

Our products are developed and handcrafted in our London studio. We continue to refine our designs, materials and production techniques as the collection develops, allowing us to make products according to genuine demand rather than committing to unnecessary large-scale production.

As CHIU STYLE grows, we will continue to review our materials and production processes and look for practical ways to improve our approach.

Packaging

We believe packaging should protect a product without creating unnecessary waste.

We aim to use practical packaging materials that serve a clear purpose while considering their potential for reuse and recycling.

For our handbags, honeycomb kraft paper wrap is placed inside the bag to help maintain its shape and protect the structure during storage and transportation. It provides a paper-based alternative to foam and traditional bubble wrap.

For external product protection, we use clear LDPE zip-lock bags containing 30% recycled content. These lightweight bags help protect our products during handling, storage and delivery, and can also be reused for storage or other purposes after delivery.

We keep our packaging focused on the protection and presentation of our products, while continuing to explore practical ways to reduce unnecessary packaging materials.

04 — Care

Caring for Your CHIU STYLE Accessory

Thoughtful care can help maintain the appearance and condition of your CHIU STYLE accessory over time.

Our accessories combine plant-based leather with crocheted and other carefully constructed elements. Because different materials may respond differently to moisture, heat, friction and cleaning products, we recommend gentle everyday care.

General care:

  • Keep your accessory away from prolonged exposure to water and excessive moisture.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to direct heat or high temperatures.
  • Protect the surface from sharp objects, rough surfaces and excessive friction.
  • Avoid applying harsh chemicals, solvents, alcohol-based products or untested cleaning products to the material.
  • Do not machine wash or tumble dry your accessory.
  • When cleaning is necessary, gently wipe the affected area with a soft, slightly damp cloth and allow the item to dry naturally.
  • Avoid placing heavy or sharp objects inside the bag that could deform or scratch the material.
  • When not in use, store the accessory in the original zip-lock bag provided with your order, in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive heat.

If you are unsure how to clean or care for your CHIU STYLE accessory, please contact us before applying any cleaning product or treatment.

05 — Designed with Repairability in Mind

We believe that thoughtful design should consider what happens to a product over time, not only when it is first made.

The construction of our bags is designed with repairability in mind. Our plant-based leather and crocheted components are joined through a construction technique that can allow the bag to be carefully disassembled if a component needs to be replaced.

Where practical, individual components may therefore be replaceable rather than requiring the entire bag to be discarded.

Repair or component replacement will depend on the condition of the product, the materials involved and the availability of replacement components. If you have a product that requires attention, please contact us so that we can assess the item and discuss the available options.

Any repair or replacement service, including applicable costs and return shipping, will be agreed before work begins.

06 — Our Approach

We see sustainability as an ongoing process of learning, developing and making more considered choices.

From the materials we explore and the way we construct our products to how we produce, package, care for and consider the future life of each accessory, we continue to look for practical ways to improve our approach.

We do not see sustainability as a single material, technique or claim. It is an ongoing consideration across the design and making process.

As CHIU STYLE evolves, we remain committed to thoughtful design, responsible material choices, considered craftsmanship and products made to be used and appreciated over time.