Like the building sector, sustainable practices are trending on the runway

Fashion Week has returned to New York with five-and-a-half-days of runway shows, hosted in iconic locations around the city. With designers debuting their Spring/Summer 2023 collections, we’ve been seeing Y2K, maximalist, quirky aesthetics take center-focus with a strong sustainability theme.



With the fashion industry relying on churning out the next big thing, it’s no surprise to see designers lean into trends that are here today, gone tomorrow - also known as ‘Fast Fashion.’  But with increasing pressure from the public, advocacy groups and governments, the industry is looking to reduce its environmental impact.

Prioritizing aesthetics over sustainably sourced and produced materials is slowly going by the wayside towards a more climate conscious process. Brands like Gabriela Hearst and Studio 189, for example, are using natural, earth-friendly materials to make their clothing.


Other designers like Collina Strada, debuted two footwear capsules with sustainably-minded brands Virón and Melissa. The brand used deadstock material [material that hasn’t been able to sell and would otherwise be in a landfill] on their boots and loafers. Their sandal collection is made of 100% biodegradable cruelty-free vegan leather.



Meanwhile, some labels, like Gucci, have moved away from the fashion calendar entirely and gone season-less; scaling their annual number of shows from five to two. A season-less fashion cycle puts focus on wardrobe staples and moves away from fleeting trends, therefore calling for less consumption.



Regardless of what the fashion industry has been pumping out, consumers around the world have been moving away from fast fashion in favor of circular fashion. According to a 2021 Resale Report, in 2020, 80 percent of consumers said they were open to purchasing second hand products, a 16 percent increase from 2019.

Consumers have also turned to buying local to reduce carbon emissions involved in shipping materials or end products from distant locations.

Like the fashion industry, the building industry has a long road to decarbonization. As sustainable building consultants, we’re happy to see an uptick in brands and consumers repurposing, up-cycling, and locally sourcing garments.

Are you looking to become more sustainable? We can’t help you style up-cycled moon boots, but we can help you design a beautiful, eco-conscious space. Looking for help on your new or existing build? Get in touch!