Our Story
Beginnings: Why Whistler Tree Exists
Whistler Tree was founded in early 2019 by a team with over 30 years of combined experience in the luxury lifestyle & fashion industry. Witnessing first-hand the harm leather production causes—polluted rivers, chemical misuse, ecosystem damage—they set out to challenge that model and create responsibly made accessories.
Brand Name & Inspiration
The name Whistler Tree is inspired by the world’s largest and most fertile cork oak, known colloquially as “The Whistler Tree.” It’s around 230 years old, famed for being home to countless songbirds in its dense canopy.
Our Material: Cork Leather
After thorough research, the Whistler Tree adopted Grade A Portuguese cork as it's signature material. Harvested and processed using natural drying, boiling, and steaming (no harsh chemicals), cork retains its natural wax, suberin, which gives it water resistance, stain resistance, softness, antibacterial properties, and fire resistance.
Product Philosophy: Sustainable & Slow Fashion
Whistler Tree embraces a slow fashion ethos—designing timeless, durable pieces rather than season-bound trends. Crafted ethically, cruelty‑free, and sustainably, their collection includes bags, purses, wallets, and backpacks made without animal-derived materials and PETA‑approved vegan certified.
The Products: What Sets Us Apart
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Crafted entirely from premium cork leather, the pieces are water-repellent, scratch- and stain‑resistant, lightweight yet durable—even compared to real leather.
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Interiors are lined with organic cotton, and hardware is thoughtfully designed for longevity and style.
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All products come with PETA-approved vegan certification, guaranteeing zero animal harm.
Ethical Commitments & Environmental Impact
For every order placed on their site, Whistler Tree partners with Treepoints to plant one tree—actively helping mitigate climate change and promote reforestation. They also prioritise fair, safe, and ethical practices throughout their production chain, with no harmful chemicals used at any stage.
Why the Whistler Tree Story Matters
Whistler Tree isn’t just about accessories—it’s about making sustainability stylish. The brand proves fashion doesn’t require compromise: high-quality craftsmanship, eco-conscious materials, ethical production, and climate action, all rolled into everyday wearables.
In Summary
Using a sustainable natural material.
Avoiding the use of synthetic materials.
Using non-toxic water-based inks.
Making items in small batches.
Designing for longevity and durability
Shipping in bulk to reduce carbon emissions.