Urban Sleeves is a South African brand established in 2021 by Sabine Linkenheil. The brand creates eco-friendly lifestyle accessories from Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate (rPET), a felt-like material made locally from recycled single-use plastic bottles. Certified by the Global Recycled Standard (GRS), rPET is a durable and versatile textile that gives waste a second life, while being used to craft everyday lifestyle accessories such as tote bags, tech organisers, and desk mats, making them stylish, functional, and serving as an everyday eco-conscious lifestyle accessory or corporate gift for events and year-end gifting.
Urban Sleeves uses durable designs that can be repurposed beyond their initial function, to further extend their lifespan and reduce the need for new items. They also design products, like laptop sleeves, to be durable and timeless, encouraging customers to find new uses for them, like document holders once the original purpose is fulfilled, thus extending their life.
Using rPET is a more sustainable choice as it reduces the need for virgin plastic, lowers carbon emissions, and supports a circular economy. The company’s approach aims to reduce the overall waste stream by giving waste a new purpose and designing for durability. Urban Sleeves products align with the growing demand for eco-conscious goods, allowing consumers to make choices that are kinder to the planet.
“By supporting the circular economy and collaborating with local artisans, we create products that are both beautiful and sustainable, preserving our beautiful country while raising awareness and incorporating slow fashion values into everyday essentials, says Sabine.
Urban Sleeves was recently honoured as a finalist at the 2025 SAPRO Awards, recognising innovation in recycled product design.
