What Is Elvis & Kresse All About?
Elvis & Kresse is a luxury accessories brand with a twist — everything they make comes from rescued materials. Since 2005, they’ve been turning what many would call waste into timeless, high-quality pieces. Think decommissioned fire-hoses and rescued leather, all crafted with world-class skill and a design that never goes out of style. But here’s the kicker: half of the profits from these handcrafted beauties go straight to charity. It’s sustainable luxury, but with heart.
The Main Benefits of Elvis & Kresse’s Approach
Here’s why this project stands out:
- Founded in 2005, rescuing raw materials from landfill.
- Over 300 tonnes of London’s fire-hose reclaimed — none has gone to landfill for more than a decade.
- Rescues 15 different materials, not just fire-hoses.
- 50% of profits donated to charity, making every purchase meaningful.
- Partnered with Burberry Foundation in 2017 to recycle at least 120 tonnes of leather off-cuts over five years.
- Winner of the 2025 Walpole Sustainable Luxury Brand of the Year award.
- B Corp score of 147.6, reflecting strong social and environmental performance.
The Story Behind the Brand
The journey began with a chance meeting with the London Fire Brigade. When James (Elvis) Henrit and Kresse Wesling CBE discovered that damaged fire-hoses were being tossed into landfill, they saw an opportunity — a rescue mission, really. What started with saving a single cherished fire-hose quickly grew into a pioneering business focused on reclaiming materials that would otherwise be wasted. Over the years, Elvis & Kresse has expanded its mission, now rescuing 15 different materials and setting new standards for circular economy practices.
Innovative Partnerships Driving Change
One of the most exciting chapters in Elvis & Kresse’s story is their collaboration with the Burberry Foundation. Launched in 2017, this five-year partnership tackles the global issue of leather waste head-on. Burberry’s leather off-cuts, which would typically be discarded, are given a new lease on life as luxury accessories designed and sold by Elvis & Kresse. This kind of innovation not only reduces waste but also pushes the boundaries of what sustainable luxury can look like.
Setting New Standards in Sustainable Luxury
Elvis & Kresse isn’t just about making beautiful products — it’s about redefining what luxury means in the 21st century. Their approach combines regenerative business practices with a commitment to social impact. By rescuing materials and donating half their profits, they’re proving that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand. Winning the 2025 Walpole Sustainable Luxury Brand of the Year award was a nod to their trailblazing work and their role in inspiring the British design community to think differently about waste and value.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production — through reclaiming and recycling materials.
- SDG 13: Climate Action — by reducing landfill waste and promoting circular economy.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth — supporting craftsmanship and ethical business.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals — collaboration with Burberry Foundation and others.
- SDG 1: No Poverty — donating 50% of profits to charity.
Why Elvis & Kresse Matters Today
In a world drowning in waste, Elvis & Kresse offers a refreshing example of how creativity and conscience can come together. Their work reminds us that what’s often seen as trash can be transformed into treasure — and that luxury doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense. With a strong B Corp score and a growing list of rescued materials, they’re not just making accessories; they’re making a statement. A statement that sustainability, innovation, and generosity can coexist beautifully.
