Stella McCartney’s elegant new collection has arrived

When it comes to building a more sustainable future for fashion, Stella McCartney is leading the charge. Since showing her first collection in Paris in 2001, the lifelong vegetarian’s eponymous label has been leather-, fur- and skin-free. And she’s continued to make impressive progress ever since – from her devotion to eco materials (organic cotton, forest-friendly fibers, recycled polyester and regenerated cashmere), right down to reducing the environmental impact of her runway shows.

The British designer has introduced a number of ground-breaking fabrics into her collections over the years. In 2019, she added a new fur-free fur called Koba™, which is recyclable and 37 percent plant-based. “There has never been a time when we have had more hope in ending fashion’s use of fur and leather,” says McCartney. “Since day one, we have been committed to being a responsible and ethical brand.” This year, McCartney has raised the bar once again by using a plant-based stretch denim called Coreva™, created by supply-chain partner Candiani denim mill. Her shows are plastic-free, and even her invites and press releases are sent out digitally to reduce the environmental impact of printing. Runway sets are created using repurposed materials and, in a move that is both clever and touching, trees are planted to represent all of the show attendees to ensure they are part of a greener future.

In addition to this sustainable brilliance is the fact that McCartney makes incredibly beautiful clothes, proving that fabrics that are kinder to the planet can be just as luxe as those that aren’t. Her hallmarks are elevated, day-to-night pieces in relaxed silhouettes, with an emphasis on effortlessness. McCartney herself defines her aesthetic as “sharp tailoring, natural confidence and sexy femininity”. This season, this is played out in boxy knits and enveloping overcoats, emblazoned with oversized check prints. Take these monochrome co-ords, which can be worn together for a statement look, or separately for a more pared-back effect. Style the top with one of the brand’s vegan leather skirts, and the pants with a simple black turtleneck and chunky chain necklace.

Deciding on a new winter coat is an enjoyable end-of-summer ritual (one that takes the edge off waving farewell to balmy summer days for a while). This chocolate brown and orange-colored coat makes a charming addition to your fall repertoire, and is a piece that you will no doubt turn to again and again. Not only does it come in a chic, cocooning cut, but its bold orange checks add a joyfulness that will no doubt boost your mood when slipping into it each morning. Style it with one of McCartney’s cult ‘Falabella’ totes and a pair of the brand’s signature lug-soled boots for a look that is equal parts on-trend and timeless.

With fans of the brand including Kate Moss (who even walked in McCartney’s 1995 graduation collection presentation), and Meghan Markle (who called upon the designer to make her fit-and-flare reception dress for her wedding to Prince Harry), it’s clear McCartney attracts women who want to look cool yet classic, with her wholly original yet uncomplicated design ethos. And of course, as she continues to pave the way for a greener future for fashion, many more are joining her on a quest towards more sustainable style.