What if your next bag carried a story of courage and care? Elvis & Kresse turns retired fire hoses into bold, beautiful bags and accessories, then gives half of all profits to support firefighters. This is luxury with purpose, built for people who want style, strength, and a lighter footprint.
This brand sells some items made with repurposed leather. But we only link to vegan-friendly products, as even repurposed leather could create a market.
The material comes with history. After around 25 years of service, London’s fire hoses retire, often in vivid red or sun-warmed yellow. Elvis & Kresse rescues this material before it heads to landfill, then transforms it into durable pieces that stand out. The result is a collection that looks sharp, lasts for years, and feels good to own.
The Original Story of Elvis & Kresse
Elvis & Kresse started in 2005 with a simple idea, save London’s decommissioned fire hoses and give them a new life. Founders Elvis and Kresse saw value where others saw waste. They set out to make luxury items that respect people, resources, and craft. Their ethos is clear, build something that gives back more than it takes.
Two decades on, the vision has grown. The company has proved that a business can be both refined and responsible. It has pioneered circular design, turning would-be waste into sought-after goods. It has invested in regenerative practices, including an eco-conscious workshop built with straw bales that cuts energy use and supports a gentler way to produce.
Philanthropy is not an add-on. It is baked into the model. Elvis & Kresse donates 50% of profits to the Fire Fighters Charity, helping those who serve and save. Every bag tells a story of service, from the hose’s years on the job to the funds that support firefighter health and wellbeing today.
From Waste to Luxury: The Material Magic
After decades of duty, retired fire hoses arrive with scuffs, marks, and character. Elvis & Kresse cleans, cuts, and handcrafts the hose into panels, often in bold red or deep yellow. The material is naturally tough and water resistant, which makes it an ideal vegan alternative to leather. No two bags are quite the same, since each hose bears its own history and patina.
Inside, the lining is often made from recycled parachute silk, a vegan-friendly choice that feels light and smooth. This smart match of robust hose and soft lining turns landfill-bound waste into premium pieces. The process saves materials, reduces emissions linked to disposal, and delivers accessories that last.
Recycled firehose bags and accessories are easy to clean. Just use a mild soap and damp cloth, avoiding harsh abrasives or bleach
Recycled Firehose Bags and Accessories
Small accessories are more affordable (this is a luxury brand). Card holders, belts, and wallets carry the signature hose texture in a compact form. Each item arrives with a story card, which makes them thoughtful gifts with meaning.
Elvis & Kresse made its name with a classic Tote, the bag that proved the concept. Built from reclaimed fire hose, it balances form and function. The Tote features three internal pockets for daily order, a generous main compartment, and a comfortable shoulder drop. The hose exterior shrugs off rain and wear, which makes it a strong choice for work commutes, weekends, and travel.
The Boho Bag is a newer favourite. Think relaxed shape, soft drape, and space for the day’s essentials without bulk. It sits neatly on the shoulder and slides under the arm. The slouchy design flatters casual looks, while the fire hose adds structure and protection. If you like a bag that moves with you, this one fits the brief.
For longer trips, the travel collection delivers. Holdalls, weekenders, and wash bags come with the same reclaimed DNA. They handle knocks and scrapes, and wipe clean after the journey. Zips are sturdy, handles feel secure, and interior pockets keep kit tidy. These are sustainable travel bags that look sharp in a hotel lobby and stand up to heavy use.
What sets these pieces apart is not only the look, it is the handcrafted quality. Every bag passes through skilled hands, with careful stitching and finishing. The material itself resists ageing and rewards use.
The Positive Impact of Sustainable Choices
Buying reclaimed materials changes the story of waste. Each fire hose saved means less landfill and lower emissions from disposal. Elvis & Kresse recovers heroic firehose (often in service for 25 years) that would otherwise go to landfill. The result is a product with a smaller footprint and a longer life.
The workshop shows another layer of care. Built with straw bales and designed for low energy use, it reflects a push toward regenerative systems. The team continues to improve processes, from material sourcing to packaging, to cut waste at every stage.
Personal benefits align with these wider gains. A well-made bag that lasts for years saves money and reduces clutter. The materials feel solid in hand, the colours stand out, and the story sparks conversation. You get a timeless accessory that works with a suit or trainers, a weekend coat or a summer dress.
If you want luxury that respects people and the planet, Elvis & Kresse offers a clear path. Choose a Tote, a Boho Bag, or a travel holdall, and your everyday carry becomes part of a better cycle.
Conclusion
Elvis & Kresse shows how real luxury can come from retired fire hoses and other rescued materials. The brand’s bags and accessories bring strong design, bold colour, and long-term use. The Tote, the Boho Bag, and the travel pieces prove that style and responsibility can sit side by side.
If you want durable, unique, and ethical accessories, start here. Explore the collections on the Elvis & Kresse website, choose the piece that fits your life, and carry a story worth sharing. Small choices add up. Your next bag can help reduce waste, support a good cause, and look outstanding for years to come.
