Anna Wintour is known for many things — her immaculate bob, her undisputed influence in the fashion industry, and also her collection of luxurious fur coats. Her go-to outfit typically encompasses a pair of jet black shades, a top-to-toe designer look (usually Prada) and an exceptionally fluffy mink number, much to the dismay of her increasingly environmentally-conscious readers.
However, just a little more than 12 hours ago, sustainability luxury fashion designer Stella McCartney published a jaw-dropping photo on Instagram which quickly drew over 20,000 likes and 400 comments: it featured a beaming Anna Wintour wearing a fur-free fur coat from the brand. Of course, it was also a yet-to-release piece from the brand’s upcoming Autumn 2020 collection. The post caption read: “Proud proud moment… Anna in #FurFreeFur! Bio-based, recyclable.. sending a loud message to the industry that change is here,” which even prompted animal rights group PETA to applaud them for their efforts.
The need for sustainability in fashion has commanded more attention than ever and this has successfully brought heavyweights in the fashion industry to translate this into action: publications have begun to shine the spotlight on eco-friendly brands and more brands have also invested in environmentally-conscious initiatives.
Here, we round up the key fashion brands who are positively impacting their communities and consumers, where you can get your own dose of fashion sustainability a la Anna Wintour.
Stella McCartney
Our first mention goes to none other than Stella McCartney, who spearheaded the sustainable luxury movement even before it was ‘cool’ — the designer has consistently been using animal-free materials in her designs and has openly called on fellow industry leaders to move towards more sustainable practices over multiple occasions. If you’re on the hunt for a stylish and sustainable purse, consider the brand’s best-selling Falabella Tote Bags which are made from non-leather, cruelty-free materials. The lining of the bags are created from recycled plastic bottles too.
Reformation
With their cheeky tagline, “Being naked is the #1 most sustainable option. Reformation is #2”, California-based label Reformation is famed for its flirty, IG-friendly dresses as it is for its sustainable efforts. From outlining its own set of environmental standards which place water input, greenhouse gas emissions and more into consideration to highlighting the amount of sustainable "savings" achieved with every piece that you purchase, the brand empowers you to walk the talk (and look cute while doing it).
It’s time to do away with the impending question of "What do I wear?" every time Date Night approaches. Slide into the brand’s signature Sigmund Dress, as modelled here by Kaia Gerber during her recent evening out with a very media-shy Pete Davidson.
Patagonia
Let's be kinder to nature especially when we're exploring its many wonders — Patagonia was one of the first activewear brands to support sustainable practices. The brand pledges 1% of its sales to supporting environmental groups, and has spent a little under four decades working with grassroots activists to find solutions to the environmental crisis. Before embarking on your next climbing expedition, pick up a Parka from Patagonia, where its insulation is made from 100% Recycled Down and its shell is designed with 100% recycled polyester plain-weave GORE-TEX fabric.
(Cover photo from: @stellamccartney)
Want to know how you can make eco-friendly travel choices? Read about it here.
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