How Gabriela Hearst is redefining sustainable fashion
Since establishing her eponymous label in 2015, the New York based designer has become one of the most influential figures in the fashion industry – thanks to her singular aesthetic and impeccable eco-credentials
Not many fashion houses inspire the same kind of fevered devotion as Gabriela Hearst does. Despite launching just five years ago, the label has acquired a cult following thanks to the Uruguayan designer’s elegant yet effortless pieces, focus on faultless quality and her constant efforts to make fashion increasingly eco-friendly. With her covetable collections, season after season, Hearst never fails to debunk the myth that sustainable clothes lack in style what they make up for in virtue – and FW20 was no exception. Hearst challenged herself to create as much of the collection as she could from waste products, and the result is nothing short of sublime.
Tailoring has been the Gabriela Hearst calling card from day one and, although the designer has introduced sumptuous knits, supple leathers and must-have accessories into her oeuvre, suiting is still at the heart of the label. This season, Hearst debuted subtly structured separates – flared pants paired with waist-cinching blazers – that nodded to the 1970s while still feeling utterly of the moment. Of course, the appeal of a suit is its endless wearability, and Hearst’s tailoring promises ultimate style mileage.
With countries around the world revising their lockdown restrictions, and many of us returning to the office, there has never been a better time to overhaul your workwear look; and Hearst’s modern power suits are sure to make an impression. From nine to five, keep the styling simple, as this flawless tailoring needs nothing more than a classic watch and a minimal tote to make it sing. And after dark, just add statement earrings, barely-there sandals and a clutch for instant polish.
“Gabriela Hearst’s fresh take on the classic black evening dress strikes the perfect balance between ladylike and alluring
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If you’re counting down the days until dinner dates and cocktails with friends are back on the agenda, then no doubt you’re also on the hunt for a knock-out dress that will work for any – and every – occasion. Lockdown has led a lot of us to reflect on our shopping habits and reconsider which of the pieces hanging in our closets truly serve us. Which is why, even when you’re searching for a stand-out piece, it’s crucial to ask yourself, Will I wear this season after season? One piece that would pass with flying colours is Hearst’s fresh take on the classic black evening dress, which strikes the perfect balance between ladylike and alluring. The silhouette is classic and ultra-feminine, but the leather details and cut-outs give this understated piece a very modern twist. Pair yours with vertiginous heels, architectural jewels and minimal makeup for a contemporary take on after-dark dressing.
When it comes to sustainability, Gabriela Hearst may have stepped up her game in recent seasons, but one of the most effective ways of building a more conscious closet is by investing in pieces that you’ll love and cherish for years – and creating forever pieces is something Hearst has always excelled at.