Now widely regarded as the second most polluting industry on the globe after oil, the world is beginning to witness a shift in priorities within the fashion industry. Demanding transparency on what we're purchasing, sustainability manifestos are starting to appear on brand websites as they allow consumers a rare insight into what goes on behind the red curtains.
Unlike the fast fashion industry, luxury brands are building collections to stand the test of time whilst exploring high-quality compositions and durable fabrication. Boasting an investment that lasts, people are turning their attention to designer fashion for ethically sourced, sustainable, and timeless pieces to build the foundations of their wardrobe.
Setting trends, influencing change, and impacting the mindset of the consumer; leading labels pave the way for conscious and eco-friendly clothing as the world watches in awe. Ralph Lauren is one of many luxury brands to sign the 'Fashion Pact' alongside other household names such as Gucci. The mantra aims to reduce greenhouse gases and emphasise sustainability as current trends show the industry accounting for one quarter of the world's carbon emissions by the year 2050. Launching sustainable initiatives and allowing their clothing to be accessible to all through the implementation of 'Klarna' and 'Clearpay', a handful of renowned brands demonstrate that consciously created luxury fashion is achievable as they set pristine examples for neighbouring lines across the globe.
From Moncler's Econyl investment to Burberry's purely recycled line, Rock.Paper.Scissors shines a spotlight on some of the most evolutionary brands. Considering Marni, Jil Sander, and Maison Margiela's investment with 'Only The Brave', fostering creativity and innovation towards a greener future, some of our favourite and most recognisable houses are on the fast track to achieving a completely sustainable future as we strive to find alternatives to fast fashion.
GUCCI
Founding Gucci Equilibrium in 2018, the Italian house adopted a way to ignite and unite a community of voices to engage in conversations surrounding climate change, social justice, and the fight for equality. Priding itself in fine Italian craftsmanship, the leading label sets an example within the industry as it continues to set trends and exceed expectations. Gucci's 'Off the Grid' collection was one of it's first to be produced with entirely sustainable materials, soon followed by the recent 'Eschatology' line, a concept that explores 'the ultimate destiny of humans and the universe.' Not compromising on its historically pristine reputation as fashion royalty, the house continues to introduce exceptional collections season after season.
VEJA
Transparent from the outset, Veja's reputation exceeds itself when it comes to sustainability and ethical responsibility. With the brand name translating to 'look' in Brazilian, Veja seeks to look beyond the sneakers and to how they are made. Not only does the brand make it readily understood that their sneakers are entirely organic and chemical-free, they also boast a fair-trade manufacturing and production process, going as far as to include a manifesto on its webpage. Claiming that their shoes cost five times more than average to produce due to its fair-trade initiative, Veja's relationship with Atelier Sans Frontiers promotes the professional integration of individuals who are excluded from the labour market by offering suitably paid work, personalised social support, and helping to develop a career plan. One of its kind, Veja's hard work does not go unnoticed with supremely constructed sneakers in timeless silhouettes and soft-toned colour ways.
BALENCIAGA
Most notable for its unwavering standards and trendsetting collections, Balenciaga's star-clad and cult following means the world is always waiting patiently for its next move. Recently releasing its AW21 collection, the French fashion house's efforts have been labelled as "the fashion of tomorrow" that is "designed to be worn forever." Devoting itself to timeless and durable pieces, Balenciaga contests fast fashion and instead builds a foundation that is certain to stand the test of time. Creative Director, Demna Gvasalia, claims that the brand is committed to looking at the environmental impact of it's garments with strong ambitions to grow towards full sustainability in the near future. Proving its dedication to the movement, 93.5% of plain materials in the new collection are either certified sustainable or upcycled.
VIVIENNE WESTWOOD
Pioneering the punk movement, environmental activist Vivienne Westwood continues to influence the industry as the eponymous fashion house fashion house leads the march towards responsible and conscious fashion. Launching a sustainability driven initiative and campaign, the iconic label vows to "make clothes with greater care" and always use its voice to mobilise communities about climate change and human rights. Continuously vocal about quality vs quantity, the rebellious yet ethereal collections born from the brand never fail to exude indisputably high-quality construction and unrivalled creativity. Vivienne Westwood's low-impact production banishes single-use plastic in its packaging and turns its attention to low-impact leather, viscose, and eco-printing systems. With activism and empathy at the heart of brand's work, you can be assured that you are supporting a pillar of the movement.
RPS Team