Where Sustainability Meets the Runway: Highlights from NYFW

Sustainable Fashion at NYFW

This season’s New York Fashion Week took a major leap toward a more sustainable future, blending high fashion with eco-consciousness in the most fabulous way possible. The week was filled with runway moments that didn’t just wow us aesthetically but also made us rethink fashion’s impact on the planet.

Pre-loved Fashion Takes Center Stage

This season saw chic, repurposed ensembles take center stage at one of the most glamorous events of the year. eBay stepped up as a fashion force by spotlighting pre-loved pieces on the runway. Styled by TikTok sensation Wisdom Kaye, the collection made it clear that secondhand doesn’t mean second best. Remake, a nonprofit dedicated to sustainable fashion, also celebrated pre-loved clothing with its runway featuring upcycled, vintage, and secondhand garments. Sizzle Arts, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing sustainability and innovation within the arts community, brought together talented designers, each tasked with creating a unique garment using pre-existing fabrics to walk the runway. These shows were a love letter to the idea that fashion doesn't need to be new to be breathtaking, bringing circular fashion to the forefront.

#SpeakVolumes

Meanwhile, The Or Foundation’s #SpeakVolumes campaign made a bold statement in Times Square, demanding that brands reveal just how much they produce annually. The campaign tackled the issue of overproduction head-on, with massive screens reminding us that the fashion industry’s obsession with "more" is fueling a global crisis of waste. It was impossible to ignore, sending a clear message to the industry: transparency is the new luxury.

Fighting for Fashion Workers

Models took a stand during NYFW, hand-delivering over 100 letters to New York Governor Kathy Hochul, urging her to sign the Fashion Workers Act into law. This bill promises protections for models who have long been left vulnerable to exploitation, and its passage would be a game-changer for creatives in the industry. It’s a powerful reminder that true sustainability must include ethical treatment of the people behind the garments.

NYFW Designers Showcasing Sustainable Fashion

From established to new and upcoming designers, so many of the NYFW designers showcased an impressive commitment to sustainability. Notable highlights include:

Collina Strada: Known for its dedication to using deadstock and recycled materials, Collina Strada once again embraced sustainability with its SS25 collection titled “Touch Grass.” Set against the natural backdrop of Marble Cemetery, the show was a playful yet poignant reminder to reconnect with nature. The inclusion of sustainable designer Mara Hoffman and the Green Lady of Brooklyn added further eco-conscious appeal.
Sami Miro Vintage: Sami Miro Vintage continued its zero-waste ethos by creating pieces from deadstock fabrics and recycled materials. The collection was a standout for its sustainable approach, demonstrating that eco-friendly design can be both innovative and effortlessly chic.
Grace Ling: Pioneering the future of sustainable design, Grace Ling used 3D printing techniques to create garments with minimal waste. By leveraging technology to reduce material usage, her collection highlights how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand, setting a new standard for eco-friendly fashion production.
Rentrayage: At Rentrayage, sustainability is all about transformation. The brand showcased its mastery of upcycling, turning vintage fabrics and discarded clothing into fresh, modern pieces. This approach breathes new life into materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.
Melke: Melke’s SS25 collection, “The Book Fair,” was a nostalgic, playful nod to the Scholastic book fairs of the ’90s and early 2000s, crafted with biodegradable fabrics and a commitment to ethical production. Upcycled school supplies were reimagined as chandelier eraser necklaces and pencil dresses, bringing sustainability to the forefront through whimsical, clever designs.
Eckhaus Latta: Eckhaus Latta stands out for its transparent production processes and use of recycled materials. The brand continues to set an example in sustainable fashion, prioritizing both ethics and aesthetics.
Ronald van der Kemp: Pushing the boundaries of upcycled couture, Ronald van der Kemp transformed discarded textiles and vintage materials into luxurious, one-of-a-kind pieces. His work proves that sustainability and high fashion can coexist beautifully, offering a glimpse into the future of eco-conscious couture.
Mila Sullivan: Known for her unique take on upcycling, Mila Sullivan’s SS25 collection, “Dirtbag Dream Beach,” used a mix of vintage, thrifted, and discarded fabrics. The collection transported us to a dreamy, neon-infused beach world, showcasing how unconventional materials can be repurposed to create fashion that is both artistic and sustainable.
LoveShackFancy: With its “Power to the Pretty” collection, LoveShackFancy embraced upcycled vintage accessories and remnant fabrics, demonstrating that timeless elegance and sustainability are not mutually exclusive.
Caroline Zimbalist: As a leader in biomaterial innovation, Caroline Zimbalist’s SS25 collection featured sculptural pieces made from her patent-pending bioplastic. Inspired by nature, her creations are not only visually stunning but also biodegradable.
JRAT: Embracing a zero-waste philosophy, JRAT’s collection highlighted intricate bead and button details, many of which were lovingly collected by the designer’s grandmother and aunt.
Abacaxi: Drawing from her Indian heritage, designer Sheena Sood infused traditional techniques like handloom weaving into her “Mystic” collection. The use of Peruvian openwork hand-machine knits showcased a commitment to sustainability through artisanal craftsmanship and a continued exploration of texture and color.
Christian Siriano: Bringing recycled fabrics into the luxury sphere, Christian Siriano incorporated Circ Lyocell, a recycled textile with the feel of silk, into his SS25 collection. This marked the first time this innovative material was used at NYFW.
Presley Oldham: Making his NYFW debut, Presley Oldham stayed true to his sustainable ethos with a collection of handcrafted pearl and glass bead jewelry. He also honored his grandmother by repurposing intricate beaded flowers into statement tops, blending family heritage with eco-conscious design.

About the Author

Grace Olyphant is a passionate advocate for sustainable fashion, dedicated to helping people embrace eco-conscious living without sacrificing style. With a background in personal styling and red carpet fashion, Grace combines her expertise with a commitment to sustainability, inspiring others to make thoughtful choices in their wardrobe. Follow her journey on Instagram @graceolyphant, and explore her insights on sustainable fashion and lifestyle on her blog at graceolyphant.com.

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10 Easy Sustainable Gardening Tips

Whether you are looking to create a dreamy cottage-inspired garden or grow your own food, home gardening provides plenty of opportunity to incorporate more sustainable practices. Home and urban gardens have shown to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and are also a way to support the essential pollinators. To help you make the most of your yard, here are 10 sustainable gardening tips that encompass everything from soil health and water conservation to plant selection and wildlife support.

Our Favorite 10 Sustainable Gardening Tips:

Plant Native Species

Since native plants are naturally adapted to your region’s climate, they are more resilient against drought, soil types, and diseases. If you don’t know your region’s plant hardiness zone, check out the map from the USDA.

2. Seek Out Drought-Tolerant Plants

Not only will native species more easily thrive in your garden, but utilizing drought-tolerant plants will require less daily maintenance and resources. By reducing the need for additional continual water consumption, you will be saving water and time. This is especially important if you live in a dry or desert climate.

3. Collect Rainwater

You can use barrels or cisterns to collect rainwater for gardening to reduce your dependency on local water resources. This can also help lowers your water bill. However, be sure to check your state’s policies regarding what is legal for your area. Some states have incentive programs for rainwater harvesting but may require specific regulations.

4. Check the Time Before You Water

When you water your garden early in the morning, it reduces the evaporation, and the soil is more likely to absorb the water better and reduce water waste. Using a drip irrigation system is even better since it allows for deeper watering and avoids getting plant foliage wet, which helps prevent common leaf diseases.

5. Make Your Own Compost

You can utilize most of your kitchen scraps, lawn clippings and leaves, and cardboard to create free compost for your garden. Compost is helpful to add nutrients to the soil and promote healthy, happy plants.

6. Utilize Organic Mulch

Adding in organic mulch like wood chips or straw will enrich the soil as it decomposes. Mulch will also help regulate the soil temperature, prevent evaporation and slow down weed growth. Just be sure to leave a circle a few inches away from new plants and roots until they are more established.

7. Use Renewable Materials

If you need a trellis, garden stake or garden border, using recycled or sustainably sourced materials is the way to go. Bamboo or reclaimed wood are better alternatives to traditional chemical treated lumber or plastic.

8. Stay Away from Pesticides

Synthetic pesticides and fertilizers are harmful to soil, insects and wildlife. Try utilizing more natural pest deterrent methods like companion planting or incorporating beneficial insects. Depending on the type of pest, DIY recipes with natural ingredients in your kitchen may also be effective.

9. Prioritize Perennials

Since perennials return year after year, you won’t need to replant as often. They typically have deeper roots, which helps reduce the need for water, absorbs carbon dioxide, and preserves the soil health.

10. Support the Wildlife

Bring more species to your garden or yard by adding birdhouses, bat houses, or insect-friendly habitats as these are all important to sustain a healthy ecosystem. A strong biodiverse environment will attract more good garden insects and wildlife.

About the Author

Karmen Flores is a creative entrepreneur based in Michigan. Karmen shares all about plant-based and sustainable, intentional living on her blog Karmen Collective. From recommendations for all things plant-based to tips for living more sustainably, Karmen makes living with intention less intimidating and more accessible. You can connect with Karmen on Instagram @karmencollective and at www.karmencollective.com

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Laws & Fast Fashion

Fast fashion is a complex issue, and tackling it requires multi-layered solutions. Dedicated policies and citizens' awareness are necessary to solve problems stemming from systemic injustice. So, to make fashion fair by default, regulators must make decisions that effectively hold companies accountable for their environmental impact and the quality of life they give their employees.

With increasing awareness amongst the public about the exploitative conditions and environmental issues at the basis of fast fashion and thanks to the work of activists, NGOs, and trade unions, regulators worldwide are taking some steps to change the fashion industry for the better.

European Union LawMakers & Fast Fashion

The EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles 

Textiles have a sizable environmental impact in the EU. According to the European Environment Agency (EEA), in 2020, textile consumption put the third highest pressure on water and land use in the Union. This textile-industry-specific strategy aims to put the commitments of the European Green Deal, the Circular Economy Action Plan, and the European industrial strategy into practice by improving the environmental performance of this resource-intensive sector. To do so, it addresses issues throughout the textiles' life cycle through specific regulations and directives.

In terms of design, the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) set new design requirements for textiles, intending to make them more durable and easier to maintain and repair. Entered into force on 18 July this year, it also set 'ecodesign requirements' to increase the recycled content and better the availability of information on goods sustainability. It also introduced the Digital Product Passport (DPP), a digitally accessible product ID that will store info related to products sustainability and circularity performance and their legal compliance.

The Waste Framework Directive tackles the end-of-life aspect of textiles. It will require EU member states to ensure a separate collection of textiles by 1 January 2025. It also presented extended producer responsibility (EPR), an environmental policy mechanism that requires producers to take responsibility for the waste management of their products.

United States Lawmakers & Fast Fashion

The NY Fashion Act

The New York State Fashion Act is a state bill that would apply to fashion companies doing business in New York with a global revenue of $100 million. If passed, it would mandate fashion sellers to be accountable for their environmental and social standards and bring about a shift in the fashion world by harnessing the economic power of New York in this sector and beyond.

Introduced in the 2022 New York legislative session by State Senator Alessandra Biaggi and Assemblymember Dr. Anna Kelles, it would set a legal framework to enforce standardized due diligence requirements across apparel and footwear supply chains. The action mandated by this bill would include "identifying, preventing, mitigating, accounting for, and taking remedial action to address actual and potential adverse impacts to the environment.". In addition, the apparel companies covered by the Fashion Act would have to collaborate with their suppliers to manage their chemical use throughout production.

This bill focuses on accountability. Through Mandatory Due Diligence, this state bill would demand the achievement of Science Based Targets (SBTs) in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement and map and disclose their supply chain. Under this act, the Attorney General would be able to monitor, investigate and enforce compliance. Non-compliant brands who do not remedy within a three-month notice time-frame may be fined up to 2% of their annual revenue. This money would be invested in environmental projects and to the benefit of directly injured workers and communities.

The Responsible Textile Recovery Act

On the other side of America, in California, lawmakers are also working on tackling the burden fashion overproduction and overconsumption put on communities and the environment. In the Golden State, Senator Newman, along with Senators Skinner and Wiener, introduced Senate Bill 707 last year.

Passed by the California Assembly Natural Resources Committee last summer, apparel and textile articles would have to form and join a producer responsibility organization (PRO) under the Responsible Textile Recovery Act. In addition, this bill would establish a statewide extended producer responsibility program for fashion goods if it becomes law.

This EPR would facilitate rearing and reusing, improve fashion's environmental and social impact, and reduce hazardous waste production. The Responsible Textile Recovery Act would cover manufacturers who are domiciled in California and those who operate there and establish the Textile Stewardship Recovery Fund in the State Treasury. This bill would be a move towards sustainability and circularity in the fashion industry in California, where 1.2 million tons of textiles were disposed of in 2021.

About the Author

Roberta Fabbrocino is a journalist specialized in climate change and sustainability-related topics. Her articles have been published in several international eco-publications. Roberta also works as a content writer for sustainable companies.

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Vegetarian & Vegan Restaurants in New York City

If you're searching for the best veggie/vegan spots in NYC, look no further! We've curated a list of our favorite vegan restaurants in the city, each one personally tried and tested. These places have made the cut for their mouthwatering, plant-based, and veggie-forward dishes. Trust us - whether you're vegan or not, you won’t miss the meat or dairy at any of these incredible spots!

Asian:

Spicy Moon: Vegan szechuan cuisine at its finest - it absolutely deserves the top spot on our list. You can’t go wrong with any of the tofu “Big Bites” - Kung Pao, Dry Pepper, Dry Pot, Mapo Tofu, General Tso’s - all packing a punch with each bite and oh-so-flavorful.
Buddha Bodai: this no frills establishment in Chinatown has been serving authentic Chinese fare since 2004. Casual, cheap, and quick, they’re serious about the quality and authenticity of their food. PS - they’re BYOB!
Planta Queen: If you’re looking for a vibey spot with fun cocktails, this one’s for you! We love their innovative takes on vegan sushi, like the watermelon “tuna” and eggplant “eel”
HanGawi and Franchia Vegan Cafe: Vegan Korean spots around Koreatown, HanGawi and Franchia are sister restaurants that are equally delicious. HanGawi is slightly more upscale (and pricier), and Franchia is perfect for a more casual bite.
Bonus: Nami Nori: Handroll spot that is not plant-based, but we had to include it as a special mention on this list because their vegan omakase option is absolutely divine!

Modern / Fine Dining:

abcV: Jean-Georges’ abcV has two locations - the OG in flatiron is vegetarian with vegan options, and the newer one in the Tin Building is entirely plant based. You cannot leave here without trying the green chickpea hummus and the dosa with turmeric sambal and the tangy coriander and mango chutneys.
Dirt Candy: This Michelin-starred gem is a must-try. Their motto is “Because vegetables are just candy from the dirt” and trust us, they absolutely nail it. Their 5 course tasting menu is $105 per person (plus $55 for a wine pairing), so it is slightly pricier than most other places on this list, but it is so worth it.
Eleven Madison Park: Disclaimer - this is the only spot on this list that we haven’t been to, but with not one but three Michelin stars, we couldn’t not include it! Save this one for a truly special occasion - their bar tasting menu (4-5 courses) is their cheapest option and costs $225, so this spot is definitely not easy on your wallet. If you do make it there - let us know if the hype is worth it!

Italian:

Double Zero: You can’t visit NYC without a slice of ‘za, and this plant-based one won’t disappoint. Come for the pizza, stay for the wine - their wine list of organic and sustainable wines from across Europe is phenomenal.
Soda Club: A vegan pasta and natural wine bar, Soda Club is the perfect date night spot. It absolutely deserves its spot on the Michelin Guide. Savor perfectly cooked al dente pasta, complemented by a glass of chilled orange wine from their extensive selection, all while soaking in the vibey atmosphere.

Ethiopian:

Ras plant based: Located in Crown Heights in Brooklyn, Ras brings you Ethiopian food to die for. We loved the injera, missir (spicy red lentil stew), and mushroom tibs, each dish bursting with flavor. We guarantee you will leave Ras with your hearts and bellies filled to the brim.

Mexican:

Jajaja Mexicana: Jajaja’s plant-based Mexican is both familiar and innovative. With its lively atmosphere, refreshing Tequila and Mezcal-based cocktails, and vibrant dishes, this place is a must-visit! Some menu highlights - Esquites, Buffalo Flower tacos, and Pollo Coco tacos.

Burgers:

Superiority Burger: We’re big fans of Superiority Burger’s old school vibe, with the nostalgic red booths and plastic menus. Their signature veggie burger is hearty, satisfying, and packed with juicy flavor - don’t be afraid to get a little messy! Even better, it won’t break the bank, a refreshing change from most spots in the city. Their classic cocktails, like Old Fashioneds, Negronis, and Martinis, are spot-on. And whatever you do, don’t skip the desserts - you’ll thank us later!

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Easy (& Sustainable) DIY Skincare Recipes

If you’re looking to upgrade your daily skincare routine without breaking the bank (seriously, when did skincare get so expensive?), look no further. Homemade skin and body care are a great way to nourish your skin while also being good for the environment. Here’s why DIY skincare is so awesome - plus some easy, all-natural recipes so you can get started right away!

Benefits of homemade skincare

It’s kind to your wallets. DIY skincare is super affordable because you probably have most of the ingredients at home already - pantry staples that double up as treats for your skin!
Less waste: Some ingredients are upcycled - which means that they are by-products of something else and would otherwise have been dumped in the trash. As a bonus, you’re making just the right amount that you will use up in one or two days. Say goodbye to those forgotten, half-used, expired jars of product cluttering up your vanity shelves.
All natural: Since you decide what to put in, you can ensure you’re only using natural or organic ingredients. Nonasty parabens, chemical fragrances, or other toxic chemicals to be found here.
Customizable - Dull skin? Dry patches? Maybe you’re sensitive to certain ingredients or scents? That’s the best part about DIY - you’re fully in control! You can tweak recipes to suit your skin’s needs, whether that means adding in a drop of your favorite essential oil or increasing oils for added moisturization.

Easy DIY Masks and Scrubs

DIY Coffee Scrub

Ingredients: Coffee Grounds, Coconut Oil (or almond/olive), Essential Oils

Instead of tossing out your used coffee grounds, turn them into an exfoliating and rejuvenating body scrub. Add a little bit of coconut oil to the grounds (also works well with almond or olive oil) - I personally love the smell and feel of coconut. You can also add in a drop or two of your favorite essential oils - peppermint, rosemary, rose are my go-tos. The grounds are a really great exfoliant, and the oil adds moisture and balances the scrub out. I would avoid using this one on your face since the skin is more sensitive.

2. DIY Oat Mask

Ingredients: Leftover Oat Milk Pulp, Almond Oil (or olive/coconut), Honey

If you make oat milk at home (great recipe here!), you can use the leftover pulp to make a really gentle and nourishing face mask. Add 2 tablespoons of almond oil (again, you can sub this out for whichever oil you have at home) and 2 tablespoons of honey to a half cup of the leftover oat pulp and mix well. Apply onto damp skin and rub in a circular motion - we recommend using this about twice a week (you can store this for up to a day in the fridge). If you want to turn this into an exfoliating scrub, you can add 3 tablespoons of brown sugar and use as a body scrub too.

3. DIY Rice Water

Ingredients: Rice, Rice Flour (optional), Aloe Vera Gel (optional)

Rice water is having its moment right now, and for good reason. Get on the Korean glass skin trend with this one! It’s super easy to make - rinse half a cup of rice well to get rid of any debris or impurities. Then soak the rice in one cup of water for 30 minutes or so. Strain the rice into a container - this is your magic rice water and it keeps well in the fridge for up to a week. Rice water is incredibly versatile - you can use it as a gentle toner after cleansing your face to balance your skin’s pH levels. You can also make it into a paste by adding rice flour - this makes a brightening and exfoliating face mask. You can also mix in aloe vera gel to create a cooling and soothing face mask. Finally, you can use it as a conditioner - after shampooing your hair, rinse your hair with the rice water, which adds shine to your hair and also promotes hair growth.

PS - Cook and enjoy your rice as usual - no waste here!