The Origin of Our Leather: Horween & Consorzio Vera Pelle Italiana Conciata al Vegetale

Where Heritage Meets Humanity

 

At VogDUO, every creation begins with a belief —

that true quality must honor both craftsmanship and conscience.


That’s why we source our leather exclusively from two of the world’s most respected tanneries:

Horween Leather Company in Chicago and Consorzio Vera Pelle Italiana Conciata al Vegetale in Tuscany.


Both share our philosophy of sustainability, humanity, and time-honored craftsmanship, ensuring that every piece we create carries not only beauty — but integrity.

The logo of Horween leather

Horween Leather Company — The Chicago Heritage

 

Founded in 1905, Horween is one of America’s oldest tanneries and remains a symbol of uncompromising craftsmanship.

Every hide is patiently vegetable-tanned using natural tree bark extracts, free from synthetic chemicals or heavy metals.


The process takes months — not days — producing leather with a rich texture, remarkable durability, and a patina that deepens over time.

To us, Horween leather is not a material, but a living canvas — one that grows with you and records your journey.

 

the logo of Consorzio Vera Pelle Italiana Conciata al Vegetale

Consorzio Vera Pelle Italiana Conciata al Vegetale — The Spirit of Tuscany

 

In the hills between Florence and Pisa lies the Genuine Italian Vegetable-Tanned Leather Consortium, representing a community of master tanneries committed to sustainable, ethical production.


Their approach follows a Sustainability Decalogue, grounded in values we deeply respect:

 

  • Metal-Free Tanning — Only natural plant-based tannins are used, free of chrome and other heavy metals.
  • No Animal is Killed for Its Skin — All hides are by-products of the food industry, ensuring no waste and no harm.
  • Work Ethics and Social Responsibility — Every associated tannery adheres to fair labor, environmental protection, and workplace safety regulations.

 

Their leather is certified by I.CE.C. and EMAS, ensuring full traceability and environmental accountability.

It is biodegradable, hypoallergenic, and rich in character — a perfect reflection of Italian artistry and human respect.

 

The Manifesto of Consorzio Vera Pelle Italiana Conciata al Vegetale


Why We Never Use Chrome-Tanned Leather

 

Unlike many well-known luxury brands, we consciously refuse chrome-tanned leather, despite its industrial popularity.

This method relies on toxic heavy metals that pollute water and harm ecosystems — practices that stand against our values of sustainability and humanity.


By using only vegetable-tanned leather, we ensure every VogDUO product is not only beautiful but also responsible — both to people and to the planet.

 

Our Promise


Partnering only with Horween and Vera Pelle Italiana allows us to uphold three principles at the heart of VogDUO:

  • Sustainability — natural tanning, ethical sourcing, and full traceability.
  • Longevity — leather that matures, strengthens, and becomes uniquely yours.
  • Integrity — crafted entirely by hand, respecting both heritage and innovation.

 

Each case, holder, and accessory is a tribute to quiet luxury — where modern technology meets timeless human craftsmanship.

 

The Beauty of Doing Things Right

 

When you hold a VogDUO leather piece, you hold more than a refined accessory.

You hold a story — of heritage, responsibility, and care.

Because in our world, luxury is not about excess — it’s about ethics, endurance, and emotion.