Sustainable luxury brands for the conscious consumer
Edun
Founded by U2’s Bono and his wife Ali Hewson back in 2005, Edun is committed to promote trade, manufacturing and economic and skills growth in Africa, with 85 percent of the Spring 2014 line now produced in the sub-Saharan region.
Two seasons of collections by new creative director Danielle Sherman (formerly of The Row and Alexander Wang), as well as a capsule collection of ethical denim with Italian brand Diesel, have helped to rebuild the buzz around this brand.
Maiyet
The luxury label was founded in 2011 by human rights lawyer Paul van Zyl, entrepreneur Daniel Lubetzky, and Kristy Caylor, formerly of Gap and Product RED. Based in Manhattan, the company works with traditional craftsmen and women in developing countries to produce sustainably sourced luxury goods.
The brand also supports the independent nonprofit Nest, which is dedicated to training and developing artisan businesses around the world.
Stella McCartney
One of fashion’s biggest names is also one of fashion’s most ethical designers. Famed for swearing off leather and fur (Stella was raised in one of the most famously vegetarian families around), the designer is also committed to wider issues of sustainability.
While she has collaborated with oft-criticized fast-fashion manufacturers like H&M and Adidas, the company has worked hard to be at the forefront of environmental issues, with 45 percent of the company powered by 100 percent renewable energy and the rest powered by partially green energy.
