Since the UN announced that the fashion industry is the second most polluting industry in the world, several brands have taken action to use more sustainable materials. In recent years several brands, both low-cost and luxury, have opted for the use of organic cotton, vegetable leather or recycled polyester. In order to recognise this capacity of companies to contribute to solving social and environmental problems, the B Corp certification was created, the most demanding and rigorous distinction that Chloé has just obtained. Under the management of Gabriela Hearst, the brand has become the first luxury brand to achieve this certification, which highlights its efforts to reduce its environmental impact when producing the different collections it produces each year. Cementing its commitment to sustainable materials and supply chain practices, Chloé uses GOTS-certified cotton, and leather from Leather Working Group-certified tanneries, as well as using recycled fabrics that carry Global Recycle Standard certification. However, B Corp is the most rigorous and demanding, requiring brands to answer 300 questions about their social and environmental impact.
To earn the distinction, companies must answer 300 questions about their supply chain practices and score at least 80 points. Of the 100,000 brands assessed, only 3,500 have made the cut. Its first collection under Hearst already featured materials such as recycled wool and cashmere, restored vintage bags and scarves made from deadstock of the firm's own fabrics. As a result, the company's total carbon footprint was reduced by 400% compared to the previous year. Chloé Turns Towards a Sustainable Fashion Future For its presentation of the 2023 spring-summer collection, the designers were guided by researchers working on the ITER project, which is a network of 35 countries building a nuclear fusion reactor in France that would pave the way for the development of commercial power plants. The Parisian brand’s team drew its inspiration for the creations from the architecture of this machine, the Tokamak. This scientific entelechy translates, in fashion terms, into a commitment to layering, cashmere dresses - low impact, according to the brand - woven and textured linen tailoring. The brand once again presented its support of sustainable materials, including sneakers made from low-impact products, and jeans made from 87% recycled cotton and hay, finished with a laser wash to reduce the use of water. Sustainable luxury is possible and the brand Chloé is proof of that.