In recent years sustainability has taken a much favoured front and centre stage in the fashion world. Gone are the days when it came about as a fancy buzzword for a university fashion graduate to try and push their work out to the public, in fact people now demand that the brands they buy are sustainable, and believe in something they as customers believe in. It’s a relatability factor, which becomes a much more important facet of a brand in an ever evolving social landscape full of digital noise, with brands and corporations trying to sell us products.
This article comprises a list of heavily sought-after British sustainable fashion brands to get you in the spirit of shopping and looking after your clothes to ensure durability.
But what is sustainability?
Sustainability is the practice of meeting our present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. It encompasses a holistic approach that balances economic growth, environmental health, and social well-being. In the context of fashion, sustainability involves using resources responsibly, reducing waste, minimizing carbon footprints, and ensuring fair labour practices. This means adopting eco-friendly materials, ethical production processes, and promoting transparency throughout the supply chain. Ultimately, sustainability seeks to create systems that are not only enduring but also beneficial to both people and the planet.
Stella McCartney
Over the years Stella MacCartney has redefined what it means to be a conscious designer. Known for her impeccable tailoring and innovative use of eco-friendly materials, the brand is a staple in the sustainable high fashion space. With pledges like going feather-free and being the first luxury house in the world to sign the PETA Feather-Free Pledge, committing to never using feathers again; or their recent campaign featuring Cara Delevingne. Whether it’s her vegan leather handbags or her chic, cruelty-free ready-to-wear pieces, every item is crafted with the environment in mind.
The Summer 2024 campaign, featuring Cara Delevingne and shot by Harley Weir at Veolia's recycling plant, highlights the staggering waste in the fashion industry and promotes a shift towards sustainability. With garments now exceeding 100 billion annually and creating 92 million tonnes of waste each year, the campaign showcases Stella McCartney's most sustainable collection yet, crafted from 95% conscious materials, and emphasizes the importance of a circular future. McCartney’s continuous innovations, like recycled cashmere and Econyl®, alongside collaborations for eco-friendly accessories, underscore the brand’s commitment to reducing waste and fostering sustainable solutions.
Mother of Pearl
At the intersection of luxury and sustainability sits Mother of Pearl, a brand that marries ethical craftsmanship with contemporary design. Creative Director Amy Powney has steered the label towards transparency and eco-friendly practices, ensuring every garment is both beautiful and sustainably sourced. From organic cotton dresses to sustainably produced silk blouses, Mother of Pearl offers a wardrobe that’s as kind to the Earth as it is to your style.
Phoebe English
Phoebe English’s eponymous label is synonymous with meticulous craftsmanship and zero-waste design. Her collections are characterized by their sculptural silhouettes and innovative fabrications, all of which are produced with minimal environmental impact. English’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every stitch, making her pieces a must-have for the conscious consumer.
