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The Autumn 2024 collection by Stella McCartney represents a profound shift in fashion, exploring empathy through the lens of animals and advocating for their compassionate treatment. Stella McCartney has been a pioneer in ethical fashion, consistently refraining from using materials like leather, feathers, fur, or exotic skins, and this collection echoes that commitment.
This season’s collection is themed around the perspective of birds, encouraging a broader view of the world and embracing different vantage points. The designs juxtapose structured, angular elements with flowing, organic forms, akin to observing cityscapes and landscapes from great heights.
The collection features a blend of sculptural shapes and Couture-inspired minimalism, counterbalanced by untamed aspects such as vegan feathers and Stella’s signature animal prints. Linear, tailored pieces contrast with billowing silhouettes, and there’s a play of textures like lace against sharp shoulders and fringe against feathered organza. Classic wool coatings are presented with an unexpected lightness and airiness.
The colour palette draws inspiration from the earthy hues of female bird plumages, incorporating deep blues, vibrant yellows, fiery reds and oranges, soothing greys, classic checks, as well as staple black, white, and neutral tones. Iconic prints like the tiger motif in creamy oatmeal tones and brushed ostrich feathers add a unique character to this season’s designs.
In a significant move towards sustainability, the collection showcases innovative vegan materials in bags and footwear. The iconic Falabella bag is reimagined using regenerative bulrushes for insulation, contributing to wetland regeneration in Cambridgeshire’s The Great Fen. This initiative reduces carbon emissions, fosters biodiversity, and enhances climate resilience against droughts and flooding. Other bag variations include plant-based, plastic-free MIRUM® and lead-free crystal evening editions.
Footwear offerings echo the collection’s diversity with Elsa pump reinterpretations as gathered kitten heel styles and over-the-knee boots. The Elyse line presents mules and clogs adorned with seasonal embellishments and star motifs, all crafted using vegan materials.
Notably, 93% of the ready-to-wear pieces are crafted from responsible materials. Innovations like BioPuff®, a regenerative insulation using bulrushes, and feather alternatives using NONA Source deadstock fabrics, showcase the brand’s dedication to reducing waste and environmental impact. Accessories highlight plant and biobased innovations like MIRUM®, VEGEA, and UPPEAL™️, furthering the commitment to sustainability.
All images in this article are courtesy of Stella McCarney.
