Stella McCartney is paving the way for sustainability in the fashion industry with her latest groundbreaking move – becoming the first designer to utilize Mylo mushroom leather for clothing. This innovative material is grown from mycelium, the root structure of fungi, making it a truly renewable resource. Partnering with Bolt Threads, a biotech company based in California, McCartney has created a stunning long bralette and pair of balloon-leg utility pants using panels of mycelium-based material on recycled nylon scuba at her atelier in London.
Modeling the launch of these eco-friendly pieces is Paris Jackson, an advocate for animal rights. The material used is not only soft and substantial but also certified as bio-based, derived from renewable ingredients found in nature. McCartney’s commitment to sustainability is unwavering, as she believes luxury should not come at the cost of the environment. By collaborating with major global companies like Kering, Adidas, and Lululemon, McCartney has exclusive access to the innovative Mylo mushroom leather.
In her pursuit of perfection, McCartney has worked closely with Bolt Threads to refine the mycelium-based material used in her creations. Dan Widmaier, CEO of Bolt Threads, lauds this material as a significant technological leap forward in the world of biomaterials, offering both aesthetic appeal and high performance. This move by McCartney is timely, as it follows Allbirds’ recent launch of plant-based leather sneakers using Mirum technology from Natural Fiber Welding.
Allbirds has invested heavily in creating sustainable alternatives to traditional leather, with their plant-based leather boasting significantly lower carbon impact than both traditional and synthetic leather. This shift towards eco-friendly practices in fashion is setting a new standard for designers and brands worldwide. As McCartney and Allbirds lead the way, it’s clear that sustainability is a key focus in the future of fashion.
To learn more about Stella McCartney’s innovative use of Mylo mushroom leather, click here. If you’re interested in Allbirds’ plant-based leather sneakers, find out more here.
