Anita Dongre Launches The Ellie, a Vegan Signature Bag
The new bag features ELEVATE, a plant-based material from UNCAGED Innovations, and debuted at an intimate dinner in New York City.
Indian designer Anita Dongre has launched The Ellie, a new vegan grab bag made with ELEVATE, a plant-based material from biomaterials company UNCAGED Innovations.
The launch brings Indian design and material innovation together. It also reflects Dongre’s long-standing connection with nature. Through this bag, the designer shows how new materials can meet the quality, style and performance expected of luxury accessories.
UNCAGED Innovations co-founders Stephanie Downs and Dr Xiaokun Wang developed ELEVATE as an alternative to conventional animal-derived leather. The material offers a refined feel, along with flexibility and durability.
To celebrate the launch, the brand hosted The Elephant in the Room, an intimate dinner at Musaafer in New York City on 22 October. The event followed a journey from Mumbai to Manhattan. It brought together journalists, sustainability advocates, founders and investors to discuss design, new materials and the future of fashion.
From Mumbai to Manhattan
At the centre of the event, a carefully arranged tablescape displayed The Ellie and its matching belts. Meanwhile, an ikebana-inspired forest installation added to the setting.
The evening also featured a fully vegan menu paired with wines. In this way, the event carried its focus on thoughtful choices into the dining experience.
Guests also took part in a no-phone hour to encourage open and meaningful conversations. The discussion prompts covered childhood memories, the meaning of beauty and how people view it in a changing world.
More than a product launch, The Elephant in the Room brought people together to share ideas. It also opened a conversation about how thoughtful design and new materials can help shape a more considered future for fashion.
