Mara Hoffman: Chic And Sustainable Fashion With Year-Round Appeal
The New York label, now known for its timeless separates, has become the go-to for fashion insiders who demand so much more from the clothes in their closets
New York-based designer Mara Hoffman might have founded her eponymous label 21 years ago, but history is rarely linear – so, in 2015, she made the bold decision to take the brand in a new direction that redefined it in the minds of fashion fans worldwide. At the time, few designers were educating themselves on the industry’s significant environmental impact, and an even smaller number of creatives were changing their business models in an effort to reduce their personal footprint. However, Hoffman committed herself and her brand to implementing more sustainable and responsible practices – without letting her sartorial standards slip, of course. Hoffman became a pioneer of sustainable fashion and has remained at the forefront of the movement ever since. Season after season, she unveils collections that push fabrication and production to the limit, with chic, conscious and, crucially, wearable pieces. It goes without saying that her FW21 offering is no exception to this rule.
Inspired by the tension, beauty and, ultimately, harmony that comes from finding the perfect balance between femininity and masculinity, the collection is a celebration of sophisticated sculptural design, undercut by a sense of warmth and comfort. As ever, Hoffman’s designs are remarkable in their ability to feel both timely and timeless. These sumptuous separates will slot effortlessly into any woman’s existing wardrobe, elevating her on- and off-duty look in the process. Boasting ease and elegance, these ultra-wearable pieces boast a sense of nonchalance that belies their exquisite and conscious design.
Take Hoffman’s subtly collared ‘Juliana’ sweater, for instance, which is spun from Climate Beneficial™ wool that is derived from sheep that follow a very specific grazing pattern – allowing the land they roam to regenerate and resulting in nutrient-rich soil. This sumptuous, ribbed knit has a modern prep feel and can be paired with everything from your favorite jeans to oversized tailoring and slip skirts. Whether you opt for the dusky blue or striped iteration, you’re guaranteed to have this piece on heavy rotation all year round. Similarly, Hoffman’s recycled-cotton pants, cut in a relaxed wide-leg style and cast in a classic camel hue, boast endless versatility. Style yours with a silk camisole and minimal leather sandals for a polished summer look, then, come winter, pair with chunky sweaters and lug-soled boots.
“Mara Hoffman’s new collection is a celebration of sophisticated sculptural design, undercut by a sense of warmth and comfort
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Of course, if you’re after a piece with real throw-on-and-go potential, you can’t beat a well-designed dress, which is exactly where Hoffman’s ribbed, turtleneck style comes in. Crafted from a recycled blend of cozy cashmere and wool, this plush piece is an outfit in, and of, itself. Simply finish with black riding boots and a grab bag for a chic look that will transition effortlessly from a day at the office to a night on the town. Simply slip on an elegant pair of barely-there sandals, accessorize with exquisite jewelry and you’ll be ready for wherever the night takes you.
Ultimately, it’s Hoffman’s emphasis on designing long-lasting investment pieces – all of which are are easy to mix and match – that represents another major part of the sustainability puzzle. After all, there’s no point in creating clothing from responsible materials if they’re the type of pieces you’ll only wear once. And Hoffman simply wants women to dress with purpose – in every sense of the word.