Truth Belts is a first time exhibitor to the American Handmade Show, however, they have been around for 18 years. This company specializes in vegan fashion accessories, which include belts, suspenders and yoga straps. All products are made in Canada using animal friendly materials.
Truth owner and designer Renia Pruchnicki graduated from Toronto’s Ryerson University in 1994, with a degree in Fashion Design/Production. For 7 years she worked in Toronto, first as a pattern maker, then as a designer of technical skiwear, outerwear, cosmetic and travel bags and backpacks. The last employer went out of business and Renia found herself in the unemployment line. It was a blessing in disguise, as that was the start of Truth. Truth was born in June of 2001.
Having no experience with leather, Renia naturally started out using the technical materials that she was already familiar with. People started taking notice. Recognizing a growing demand for high-quality animal friendly accessories, Renia decided to continue with this unique angle, combining her unique designs with unusual materials. Not only were her products original, but also the longevity of Truth belts was unparalleled in a market where most other leather-look belts tended to fall apart within a few months. Truth’s reputation for producing durable yet fashionable non-leather accessories spread quickly, and Renia had soon carved out a niche market for herself in the vegan community as well as carnivores who simply wanted a cool looking belt. The products started selling in stores in both Canada & USA and also on the company website, www.truthbelts.com.
In 2003, PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) awarded Truth a Proggy Award for “Best Leather Replacement Clothing Company in North America”. This was both an honour and a great surprise to Renia, who had no idea that Truth was even being considered for the award.
As the company evolved, Renia started making belts out of recycled car tires and other materials that are virtually “indestructible”. These belts will outlast leather and possibly even humans. The top selling belts by far are the flat, elastic, adjustable stretch belts, known as the Seva and Karma belts. Customers love the flat, practical and comfortable aspect.
In 2010 Renia stared volunteering for Parvati.org, a non-profit organization, which works to keep the Arctic Ocean (specifically the area north of the Arctic Circle) free from exploitation. Parvati.org created a treaty knows as MAPS (Marine Arctic Peace Sanctuary) which as been sent to all country leaders on the planet. When 99 leaders sign, MAPS goes into effect. Two leaders have signed so far!
Renia donates her time giving presentations about MAPS to high schools, and other groups. Renia feels strongly that this will keep our oceans safe and is something that all citizens and country leaders alike can agree on, in order to make a difference to our shared planet.
Truth products are animal friendly and made in Canada. Truth’s mission statement is “Having fun inspiring the world”. To book an interview or to contact Renia, please email renia@truthbelts.com, or call 416-778-1597.