As winter approaches, people start looking for warm and stylish coats to protect themselves from the chilly weather. However, ethical and conscious consumers prefer to wear clothes that align with their values and don’t harm animals or the environment. A vegan pea coat is a perfect choice for those who want to stay warm and fashionable without compromising their ethical beliefs. This article will cover everything you need to know about vegan pea coats, from their history and materials to their style and benefits.
What is a vegan pea coat?
A pea coat is a type of heavy woolen coat that typically features broad lapels, double-breasted fronts, and large buttons. Originally worn by sailors, pea coats have become a popular fashion item for both men and women. A vegan pea coat, as the name suggests, is a pea coat that is made without using any animal-derived materials. Instead of wool, which is often obtained by shearing sheep, vegan pea coats use synthetic or plant-based materials that mimic the look and feel of wool.
History of the pea coat
The origin of the pea coat can be traced back to the 18th century when it was worn by Dutch sailors. The coat was made of a heavy, coarse woolen fabric that provided warmth and protection against the harsh sea weather. The term “pea coat” is believed to have originated from the Dutch word “pijjakker,” which means a coat made of coarse woolen fabric. Over time, the pea coat became popular among sailors of other nationalities, including the British and the Americans. Today, the pea coat is considered a classic and timeless piece of outerwear.
Materials used in vegan pea coats
Traditionally, pea coats are made of wool, which is obtained by shearing the fleece of sheep. However, ethical and conscious consumers may not want to wear wool because of the cruelty involved in the wool industry. Fortunately, there are many vegan alternatives to wool that are used in the production of vegan pea coats. Some common materials used in vegan pea coats include:
- Polyester
- Nylon
- Acrylic
- Rayon
- Recycled fabrics
- Plant-based materials such as bamboo, hemp, and cotton
These materials are often blended to create a fabric that mimics the look and feel of wool. For example, a polyester and acrylic blend may be used to create a fabric that is soft, warm, and durable, similar to wool.
Advantages of choosing a vegan pea coat
Choosing a vegan pea coat over a traditional woolen pea coat has several advantages, including:
- Animal-friendly: By choosing a vegan pea coat, you are not contributing to the cruelty and exploitation of animals in the wool industry.
- Environmentally friendly: The production of wool has a significant environmental impact, including land degradation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Vegan pea coats, on the other hand, are made of materials that are less harmful to the environment.
