Gabriela Hearst, the creative force behind Chloé, shares her candid insights into the journey towards sustainability in fashion. Raised on a farm, Hearst’s upbringing instilled in her a deep respect for utilizing resources efficiently, shaping her commitment to sustainable practices in design.
Her eponymous brand, launched in 2015, reflects her ethos of slow, small-scale production with an emphasis on craftsmanship. Upon joining Chloé as creative director, Hearst brought this ethos to the forefront, aligning the iconic French brand with a purpose-driven approach.
In her quest to address the climate crisis through fashion, Hearst emphasizes three key points: reducing reliance on fossil fuels, curbing overconsumption, and prioritizing environmental rehabilitation. Each garment undergoes scrutiny based on its impact on these aspects, reflecting Hearst’s dedication to mindful creation.
Despite the luxury price tags attached to her designs, Hearst encourages customers to view them as investments rather than fleeting trends. By promoting longevity and heirloom quality, she hopes to inspire a shift towards mindful consumption.
Hearst’s collaboration with the Sheltersuit Foundation underscores her commitment to social responsibility. Through initiatives like Chloé Craft, she emphasizes handmade, low-impact production methods while striving to improve the eco-consciousness of mass-produced items.
The recent achievement of B Corporation status by Chloé marks a significant milestone in the luxury fashion industry’s journey towards sustainability. However, Hearst acknowledges that there is still much work to be done. She advocates for embracing imperfection and taking action rather than waiting for perfection, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in navigating the transition to a more sustainable economy.
In Hearst’s view, it will be the creativity of artists and the rigor of scientists, rather than political mandates, that will lead the way towards a sustainable future. With a blend of pragmatism and optimism, she remains committed to driving change within the fashion industry and beyond.
