AP/AFP – A greenhouse in Paris’ Parc Andre Citroen was a fitting stage for Stella McCartney’s ecology-minded showcase at a fashion week recently.
The British-American designer had star-studded endorsements and the backing of the luxury conglomerate LVMH to spotlight the urgent need for the industry to reckon with its impact on the planet.
The collection began with a film voiced by Oscar winners Olivia Colman and Helen Mirren inviting the world to protect Mother Earth. McCartney’s message was clear: Glamour need not come at the Earth’s expense.
Cue sequins made from recycled aluminium, sparkling faux-diamond crystal lattice details and alternative leather handbags. Mock crocodile-skin trenchcoats were fashioned from AppleSkin, a vegan leather made from apple waste.
Dramatic wool coatdresses (one showcased by model of the minute Lila Moss, Kate Moss ‘ daughter) sported cascading hoops and a swag in the silhouette, prompting one fashion insider to christen it the “new fur coat”.
In terms of aesthetic, stiff shoulder pads offered a broad shouldered look this season with more than a whiff of the ’80s, while a stylish, asymmetrical vegan leather stud dress provided a nice flash of punk.
Sometimes the silhouette got lost in the shaggier looks – such as one limp black jumpsuit – but to dwell on that would be to miss the point.
