Eco activism in the spotlight at Stella McCartney Fall/Winter 2024 runway show

Stella McCartney’s new ready-to-wear collection presented at the Parc André Citroën has been led by a manifesto on climate action, read by actors Olivia Colman and Helen Mirren and projected onto screens, setting the stage for a collection crafted from 90% responsibly sourced materials. 

A trailblazer for responsible luxury, Stella McCartney highlighted the very essence of her Maison with exaggerated proportions, elevated textures and Earth-friendly innovations. The collection featured soft natural tones, from the dusty pink of the first piece to the immaculate white floor-length coat closing the show. The lip motif was the only print in the collection, a symbolic homage to timeless Stella codes – womanhood, sensuality and activism. The collection’s fluid forms, padded shoulders and knitwear were an ode to comfort. Inspired by Linda McCartney’s wardrobe, drape-sleeved dresses and gowns with dramatic trains created strong shapes.  

Asymmetric silhouettes and sensual reveals defined the collection. Models wore blazers made from responsibly sourced wool and volume biker jackets in vegan leather with no shirt underneath. All the materials used are kind to their wearers. Croc skirts are constructed from UPPEAL™ – an apple-based vegan alternative to animal skins, made in leather tanneries without any harmful or carcinogenic chemicals. With militant brilliance, lead-free crystal constructs and recyclable hammered aluminum sequins form decorative elements on tailoring. The collection’s accessories provided a final touch of beauty. New Falabella bags are painted with Airlite – an environmentally friendly technology that actively purifies the air. Each piece is an expression of the manifesto from the start of the show and reminds us of the climate emergency.