From Iconic Designer Bags to Handcrafted Watch Straps: Sustainable Luxury Redefined
- Max Baxter

- Dec 21, 2024
- 2 min read

When you think of timeless luxury, brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Chanel, and Hermès often come to mind. These iconic fashion houses have shaped the industry for decades, crafting pieces that symbolize elegance, prestige, and artistry. But as the world moves toward more sustainable practices, there’s a growing conversation about how we can continue to enjoy these symbols of luxury while reducing our environmental impact. That’s where upcycling comes in, and it’s at the heart of what I do here at Baxter's leather.
A Brief History of Luxury Brands
Many of the world’s most coveted designer bags have stories as rich as their designs. Louis Vuitton, for instance, began in 1854 as a trunk-maker revolutionizing travel with durable yet stylish luggage. Hermès, founded in 1837, started as a harness workshop before becoming synonymous with the Birkin bag—a global status symbol. Chanel, with its iconic quilted handbags, and Gucci, known for its bold patterns and craftsmanship, have long stood as pillars of fashion.
These brands have always been about more than just products; they’re about heritage, quality, and attention to detail. However, even the most luxurious items can’t escape the reality of consumerism. Many beautiful pieces end up forgotten, stored away, or discarded—and that’s where I step in.
Turning Pre-Loved into One-of-a-Kind
I’m passionate about giving new life to these iconic materials. I source vintage designer bags—often ones that are damaged, worn, or no longer in use—and transform them into handcrafted Apple Watch straps. Each strap is a unique piece of art, combining the original craftsmanship of the designer bag with my own dedication to creating something new and functional.
By upcycling, I’m not only preserving the beauty of these luxury items but also contributing to a more sustainable future. Instead of letting these materials go to waste, I’m repurposing them into something you can wear and treasure every day.
Why Upcycling Matters
The fashion industry is one of the largest contributors to global waste and pollution. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, the equivalent of one garbage truck of textiles is sent to landfills or incinerated every second. By choosing upcycled products, you’re helping to reduce waste, conserve resources, and minimize the demand for new materials.
With my business, there’s no additional harm to animals, as the leather and exotic materials I use are sourced from existing bags. This ensures that no new cruelty is involved, aligning with the growing demand for ethical and eco-friendly fashion.
Sustainable Luxury for the Modern World
When you purchase one of my straps, you’re not just buying an accessory; you’re supporting a movement toward sustainability and mindful consumption. You’re celebrating the legacy of iconic designer brands while contributing to a future where luxury and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.
So, whether it’s a strap crafted from a vintage Gucci bag or one featuring the unmistakable monogram of Louis Vuitton, each piece tells a story—of its past, of the hands that crafted it, and of the new chapter you’ll write with it.
Join the Movement
Explore my collection of handcrafted, upcycled Apple Watch straps and discover how you can own a piece of sustainable luxury. Together, we can redefine what it means to treasure fashion and make a positive impact on the planet.
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