The past month of fashion weeks in cities like New York, London, Milan and Paris has shown that a new word is entering the fashion industry: sustainability. In a hopeful sign that the fast fashion world is finally thinking about more than just the race, ‘ethical’ is gaining traction as a buzzword too. In this second story on the topic more examples of the latest sustainable stories from the fashion world.
Stella Jean brings work to Haiti
One of Milan Fashion Week’s leading ethical designers, Stella Jean’s S/S 2015 show was an uplifting and vibrant ode to her Creole heritage. As part of her collaboration with the Ethical Fashion Initiative, her latest collection saw her return to her roots in Haiti to work with Haitian artisans. With the slogan “Not charity, just work,” the Ethical Fashion Initiative is all about female empowerment and poverty reduction. Other brands producing goods through the initiative include Karen Walker, Sass & Bide and United Arrows.
Maiyet shake up Paris Fashion Week
Maiyet has long been known for its work in promoting entrepreneurship in developing countries. What’s new for S/S 2015 is the luxury brand’s decision to eschew the standard runway show in favor of an unconventional salon presentation instead. Accompanied by an intriguing installation of short films directed and choreographed by Benjamin Millepied, the presentation was a hot talking point on all the fashion blogs. We like that – more press on sustainability is always good.
H&M Conscious Denim Collection
Okay, so H&M didn’t show this collection at fashion week; but what fashion industry story is truly complete without addressing one of the biggest retailers in the world? As a leader in the more inexpensive end of the market, H&M is expanding its Conscious Collection with a new, denim-specific eco line. Launched on October 2nd, the collection will consist of 40 pieces for men, women and kids. Oh yes, sustainability can be quite cool indeed.
Cover image from Stella Jean, Maiyet & H&M Conscious Collection