While sustainability and luxury have oftentimes been at odds with each other, Chelsea Barracks has demonstrated that the two can work harmoniously. As the most sustainable development in Europe, our focus has long been on a commitment to a greener future. Outside of Chelsea Barracks, there are many brands in the UK - and beyond - who endeavour to combine style and luxury with a commitment to the planet; here are a selection of the UK’s top sustainable luxury brands.
Stella McCartney
Stella McCartney stands out in the realm of sustainable luxury fashion, renowned not only for her iconic style, but also for her unwavering commitment to environmental responsibility. Since launching the eponymous brand in 2001, McCartney has been a staunch advocate for cruelty-free fashion, forgoing the use of leather and fur long before other luxury brands realised the importance. Her brand is a proud member of both the Ethical Trading Initiative and the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, reflecting its deep commitment to ethical practices across its operations.
McCartney's approach to design involves a seamless integration of high style and high conscience. She employs innovative materials such as vegan leather alternatives, which are not only environmentally friendly but also push the boundaries of fashion technology. Her use of organic cotton, recycled fabrics and low-impact production techniques ensures that each garment is crafted with the least possible environmental footprint. Stella McCartney’s collections are defined by sharp tailoring, playful femininity and a timeless aesthetic, all underpinned by a philosophy that luxury fashion should be as ethical as it is elegant.
Christopher Raeburn
Christopher Raeburn is a British fashion designer recognised for his commitment to sustainable design. He launched his eponymous brand, RÆBURN, in 2009 and received plaudits for his innovative approach to fashion. Raeburn's design philosophy revolves around the "3 R's": Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. He is particularly celebrated for repurposing military fabrics to create distinctive and high-quality pieces that blend functionality with high fashion.
RÆBURN's commitment to sustainability extends beyond the use of recycled materials; the brand also emphasises local production, reducing carbon footprints and ethical labour practices. Each collection showcases how sustainable methods can be effectively integrated into the luxury fashion market without compromising on style or quality. This has positioned Raeburn not just as a designer, but as a leader in the movement towards a more sustainable fashion industry.
Erdem
Erdem was founded in 2005 by Erdem Moralioglu and has since established itself as a staple in the luxury fashion industry, celebrated for its use of experimental textiles, vibrant prints and detailed craftsmanship. The London-based brand is synonymous with intricate patterns and a romantic aesthetic that blends historical references with contemporary design.
Moralioglu's commitment to sustainability is woven through his choice of materials and the production processes. The brand is increasingly focusing on incorporating eco-friendly materials into its collections and adhering to ethical production standards in an effort to minimise their environmental impact. This shift towards sustainability aligns with a broader trend in the fashion industry but is particularly notable at the luxury level where the preservation of craftsmanship and quality aligns with sustainable practices.
Mulberry
Recognised for its fine craftsmanship and heritage designs, Mulberry is another luxury brand that has embraced sustainability in its ethos. With a focus on transparency and responsible sourcing, Mulberry strives to minimise its environmental impact across its supply chain. The brand has introduced initiatives such as the "Made to Last" manifesto, emphasising longevity and durability in its products, which contains the following key commitments:
- Pioneer a hyper-local, hyper-transparent ‘farm to finished product’ supply chain model
- Develop the world’s lowest carbon leather sourced from a network of environmentally conscious farms
- Achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2035
- Continue to extend the life of Mulberry products through repair and restoration
- Buy back, resell or repurpose any Mulberry bag
- Extend our commitment to being a real Living Wage employer by working with our network of suppliers to achieve the same
Mulberry's commitment to quality, combined with a dedication to sustainability, ensures that each piece remains a timeless investment in both style and ethics.
Roksanda
Roksanda Ilincic launched her namesake brand, Roksanda, in London in 2005. Known for its artful blend of bold colours, architectural silhouettes and modern femininity, the brand quickly became a favourite among the fashion elite. Roksanda's aesthetic is deeply rooted in the creative arts, often drawing inspiration from contemporary art and sculpture, which is evident in her dramatic yet elegant designs.
On the sustainability front, Roksanda has demonstrated a commitment to responsible fashion by incorporating eco-friendly materials into its collections and focusing on craftsmanship and longevity. The brand advocates for reducing waste and promotes sustainable practices throughout its production processes. By emphasising the quality and durability of its garments, Roksanda aims to counter the throwaway culture of fast fashion, ensuring each piece is timeless and treasured for years to come.
As these brands demonstrate, the marriage of high-end fashion with sustainable practices is not only possible but essential in paving the way for a more responsible and environmentally conscious luxury market.