In today's fast-paced world of disposable fashion, Moral Bags offers a different choice—one that doesn’t require sacrificing design for sustainability or compromising style for functionality. True to its name, their products serve as a "moral choice" in everyday life.

In Hong Kong’s fast-paced city, a group of like-minded friends founded Moral Bags in 2018, proving through their actions that sustainability and functionality can coexist seamlessly.

This brand, which focuses on designing and manufacturing handbags and backpacks, avoids flashy designs and instead showcases its value through practical details—water-repellent fabric made from recycled plastic bottles, thoughtful hidden RFID anti-theft pockets, and ergonomic straps designed to reduce pressure, all reflecting a deep understanding of user needs.

Selected as one of the Emerging Designer Brands at CENTRESTAGE 2025, Moral Bags is gradually breaking the stereotype surrounding sustainable fashion. From school bags for students to daily commuter bags for city dwellers, the brand is committed to creating products that integrate effortlessly into various aspects of daily life, striking a perfect balance between outdoor functionality and urban aesthetics.

By using over 80% recycled materials in their designs, Moral Bags transforms discarded fabrics and plastics into stylish and durable bags. From raw materials to production, every step adheres to international certification standards, demonstrating the brand’s dual commitment to environmental protection and workers’ rights, inviting consumers to join the movement for sustainable fashion.

VOGUE HK: What inspired the creation of Moral Bags?

MORAL: As technology and society progress, human activity continues to impact the planet’s ecosystems. The concept of sustainability is gaining more attention, but it often comes with trade-offs, such as higher costs or compromises in design. So, we founded Moral Bags to challenge this outdated notion. Our goal is to prove through our products that sustainability, style, and functionality can coexist harmoniously.

VOGUE HK: Moral targets people who live adventurous lives. How do you design products that meet the demands of outdoor activities while aligning with Hong Kong’s urban style?

MORAL: When designing our products, we balance the needs of travel, sports, and daily life. Our backpacks feature a casual, lifestyle-focused design but are slightly larger than typical everyday bags, making them ideal for two- or three-day trips. We include thoughtful details for outdoor use, such as water-repellent and stain-resistant materials, RFID anti-theft pockets, and small locking clips on zippers. These elements cater to adventure-seekers while seamlessly incorporating modern urban aesthetics.

VOGUE HK: You’ve collaborated with many influencers to share your vision. How have these partnerships shaped Moral’s brand identity and mission?

MORAL: Collaborating with various influencers and organisations lets us spread awareness of our products and introduce Moral to a broader audience. Their reach helps more people discover and use our eco-friendly backpacks, making sustainability a part of daily life. Through collaborations and sponsorships, we’re paving the way for a renewable future, hand in hand with the community.

VOGUE HK: What inspired your latest collection?

MORAL: Our new Umago Ronin Backpack was designed with travellers in mind. We approached the design from their perspective, focusing on three key aspects: expandability, functionality, and comfort. This backpack is a thoughtful response to the diverse needs of travellers, making it an essential travel companion. It pays tribute to free spirits and celebrates their pursuit of freedom through life’s journeys.

VOGUE HK: What’s your favourite product, and which one would you recommend to everyone?

MORAL: The Cecil Compact II Backpack is my personal favourite, and it’s the one I’d recommend to anyone. It’s not only one of our best sellers but also an indispensable companion for every journey in your life. Whether you’re commuting, shopping, or travelling, it meets your needs perfectly. Its organisational compartments, ultra-thick 16-inch laptop sleeve, ergonomic weight distribution, and sleek matte black design reflect the perfect union of functionality and aesthetics, making it a must-have for anyone seeking professional, practical style.

VOGUE HK: Athleisure demands versatility. How does Moral ensure its products transition seamlessly from sports to urban lifestyles?

MORAL: We always start our designs by considering the user’s perspective, thinking about their needs in various scenarios. Our goal is to create backpacks that adapt to different lifestyles. For example, we use water-repellent materials that are both practical for unpredictable environments and stylish for the city. Ergonomic weight support ensures comfort during long commutes or physical activities, while multifunctional compartments are carefully designed to store items for both sports and leisure.

VOGUE HK: What role do sustainability and ethical production play in Moral’s vision?

MORAL: Both are essential to our vision. Our products prove that sustainability, style, functionality, and social responsibility can coexist. On the sustainability front, we prioritise premium eco-friendly materials—over 80% of our materials come from recycled fabrics and plastics, giving discarded materials a second life. Each product tells a real story of sustainable development.

As for ethical production, we value human rights and workers’ welfare. Our supply chain is built on ethical sourcing, fair wages, and safe working conditions. We’ve also earned BSCI and SA8000 certifications, ensuring that our workplaces meet international standards of social responsibility.

VOGUE HK: What’s next for Moral?

MORAL: As times change, new values and needs will emerge, and we want to evolve with them. We aim to launch more lightweight, functional, and sustainable products to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly options.

In both Hong Kong and overseas markets, we see potential in expanding beyond backpacks. We’re actively developing a range of multifunctional everyday bags, such as crossbody bags, totes, and travel accessories, to meet the needs of diverse lifestyles.

Our ultimate goal is to shape a conscious lifestyle brand—one that empowers people to live more meaningfully by choosing products that align with their values without sacrificing style or practicality.