Tory Burch has joined the V-Gang with its latest Ella Bio bag. In collaboration with biotechnology company Modern Meadow, this new, plant-based leather accessory delivers the style and functionality of Tory Burch’s signature Ella tote (a best-seller since 2008) along with cutting-edge sustainable materials.

The Ella Bio tote delivers a durable, luxurious-feel and fade-resistant silhouette and presents an outer shell made from BioFabbrica Bio-Tex™, which contains 64% USDA-certified bio-based content. This innovative and renewable material is powered by Modern Meadow’s proprietary Bio Alloy™, made from a plant protein derived from non-GMO soy grown in North America.

The lightweight, on-the-go staple arrives in sizes mini, small and regular and is priced at $228, 298 and 348 USD, respectively. Besides, the Ella Bio tote bag’s color range comes in energetic, recharging hues, such as: “Light Sand,” “Mint Leaf,” “Watermelon Pink,” “Limoncello” or “Bright Amethyst.” Yet, for those who prefer a minimal take, a “Warm White” and “Black” colorway is also available.

The Tory Burch partnership serves as the latest venture for Modern Meadow, which is actively working to scale the availability of plant-based textiles in the fashion industry through partnerships with renowned suppliers and luxury brands.

Jennifer Gootman, Global Head of Sustainability and ESG Strategy at Tory Burch, commented: “The Ella Bio meets our design, quality, and durability expectations and is made with an innovative new material, BioFabbrica Bio-Tex™, which feels and looks like leather but is built from 64% USDA-certified biobased content.” She continued: “It is a great example of a growing movement towards ‘next-gen’ materials that take inspiration from nature but are engineered to have a lower environmental impact.”

Catherine Roggero-Lovisi, CEO of Modern Meadow, added: “Consumer demand for products that are good for the planet is ever accelerating. Since 2008, the Ella tote has been one of Tory Burch’s most iconic, well-loved handbag styles. Modern Meadow is proud to be a part of its next evolution as a high-performing and bio-based tote consumers can feel confident in.”

The Ella Bio Tote Bag is now available to purchase from Tory Burch’s website. And if this story piques your interest in bio-based materials, take a look at our digested and highlighted version of the 2022 Next-Gen Materials report from the Material Innovation Initiative.