Montana-based Jelt Belts expands beyond sustainable belts with eco-friendly cross-body bags.
Jelt, the Montana-based company known for its sustainable belts from recycled plastic bottles, has announced its expansion into a new product category. Jelt Belts will launch a line of eco-friendly cross-body bags, marking a significant step in its commitment to sustainable fashion.
Founded on the principle of turning waste into wearables, woman-owned Jelt has been producing sustainable belts from recycled plastic bottles for nearly a decade. The company’s manufacturing process involves collecting and sorting used bottles, transforming them into plastic flakes, and then extruding these into fibers that form the basis of their products.
The new cross-body bags continue Jelt’s eco-conscious tradition and represent their latest effort to combat plastic waste. Crafted from EcoPak, an innovative material derived from recycled plastic bottles, just like their sustainable belts, these bags demonstrate the company’s commitment to sustainable fashion. EcoPak’s production process involves collecting post-consumer plastic bottles, thoroughly cleaning them, and transforming them into a durable, fabric-like material.
According to the company, EcoPak production utilizes non-toxic adhesives throughout manufacturing, eliminating harmful chemicals often associated with textile production. Furthermore, the creation of EcoPak employs energy-efficient practices, such as optimized machinery and streamlined production processes, which significantly reduce the overall carbon footprint compared to traditional fabric manufacturing.
This approach not only diverts plastic from landfills and oceans but also minimizes the environmental impact of producing new materials. Jelt estimates that each bag repurposes approximately 20 plastic bottles, offering consumers a tangible way to contribute to plastic waste reduction through their purchasing decisions.
“We’re passionate about creating products that are good for you and the planet,” said Amy Auble, co-owner of Jelt. Auble and her brother Andy recently took over ownership of the company from founder Jen Perry.
In addition to their environmental benefits, the bags are meticulously designed with functionality and user experience in mind. Each bag features six strategically placed pockets: two exterior zippered compartments for quick access to frequently used items, a padded interior sleeve suitable for small daily items, and three internal organization pockets for smaller essentials like keys, wallets, and phones. The main compartment is spacious enough to accommodate daily necessities while maintaining a sleek profile. The bag’s adjustable shoulder strap, crafted from the same durable recycled material as the body, can extend up to 52 inches, allowing users to customize the fit for crossbody or over-the-shoulder wear.
Water-resistant materials and high-quality zippers provide extra protection for belongings, making the bag suitable for various weather conditions. The EcoPak fabric repels water and resists stains and abrasions, enhancing the bag’s longevity.
In a move that underscores its commitment to local economies and reduced carbon footprint, Jelt has partnered with Steadfast Systems, another Montana-based company, to design and produce these bags. This collaboration supports local manufacturing, creates jobs in the community, and allows for closer quality control. Steadfast Systems, known for its expertise in outdoor gear, brings valuable insights to the process, ensuring the bags meet high durability and functionality standards.
This product expansion comes when consumers increasingly seek sustainable alternatives in everyday purchases. The global market for eco-friendly products has been growing steadily, with the fashion industry under particular scrutiny for its environmental impact.
Jelt’s approach to sustainability extends beyond materials. The company prioritizes responsible manufacturing practices and maintains its production in Montana, contributing to the local economy while reducing transportation-related emissions.
While the cross-body bags represent a new direction for Jelt, the company continues to produce its signature belts. These products have gained popularity not only for their environmental credentials but also for their comfort and versatility. They feature a metal-free, hypoallergenic buckle, and a sleek yet stretchy design, making them suitable for travel, hiking, and everyday activity.
As the fashion industry grapples with its environmental footprint, companies like Jelt demonstrate that style and sustainability can go hand in hand. By expanding into new product categories while maintaining its commitment to eco-friendly practices, Jelt is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable fashion.
The launch of Jelt’s cross-body bags is expected to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers looking for practical, stylish accessories with a reduced environmental impact. As the company moves forward under new ownership, it appears poised to continue its mission of turning plastic waste into functional, fashionable products.
