Collina Strada Fall 2019
Fashion designers often have an unspoken responsibility to use their collections as grounds for something un peu plus. So at the Collina Strada Fall 2019 show, designer Hillary Taymour chose to make a political statement surrounding the issue of environmentalism, using her latest collection as a platform to educate others on sustainability and the preservation of our precious Mother Earth.
The show began with hip-hop artist and environmental activist Xiuhtezcatl Martinez giving a Ted Talk-esque presentation. He spoke about the impact that humans have on the Earth, while models walked the runway carrying reusable water bottles and Tupperware. One model was sent out with a baby sitting atop her shoulders, wearing matching daisy patterned outfits.
The materials that made up the pieces were all sourced from 75% deadstock fabrics, recycled ocean plastic beads in collaboration with 4ocean and “good intentions,” according to Taymour. While the collection as a whole saw a multitude of themes throughout, we picked up on a grungy fusion of slouchy silhouettes in muted tones. A tie-dye motif was plastered on t-shirts, sweatshirts and leggings, while florals were featured on flowy dresses and jumpsuits, with sheer robes and slips thrown into the mix.
Taymour chose to address her own faults in the show, admitting that she still purchases plastic water bottles when traveling, orders from seamless instead of cooking and frequently turns to Amazon instead of shopping locally. But she pledged to make more of an effort towards sustainability in both her line and her personal life moving forward, starting with this collection. And she even had some advice for showgoers, providing them with a sheet listing ways to reduce their carbon footprint.
The environmental consciousness of the collection presented itself as the true definition of fashion forward. With a focus on changing the fashion industry’s lack of sustainability, Taymour left the audience with one question: “How will you make a difference?” If you’re looking for inspiration to answer that question, check out the collection below.
