Ethics as The Future of Fashion: Insights from Fashinnovation World Wide Talks | The VEERAH Blog
Exploring Sustainability, Innovation, and Growth with Fashion's Leading Voices.
Opening chat with Marcelo Guimarães and Jordana Guimarães, co-founders of Fashinnovation.
Hello, My Dear Fellow Warriors!
My name is Rose, and I am the Customer Experience and Operations Warrior at VEERAH. This September, I had the opportunity to attend the Fashinnovation Worldwide Talks 11th Edition in New York City, founded by Marcelo Guimarães and Jordana Guimarães, to kick off New York Fashion Week. As the world’s largest event at the intersection of fashion and innovation, it was an inspiring day filled with insightful discussions from industry leaders about sustainability, business growth, and the future of fashion. Here are 4 key takeaways from the event that I felt were worth sharing with all of you!
Alyssa Hardy, Style Director at Teen Vogue & Logan Duran, VP of ESG Strategy at Tapestry.
1. Fashion is Traceability:
In today’s fashion landscape, transparency has emerged as a game-changer, particularly among Gen Z consumers who are increasingly demanding to know the origins and production methods of their purchases. Alyssa Hardy, Style Director at Teen Vogue, and Logan Duran, VP of ESG Strategy at Tapestry, (the parent company of three major brands: Coach, Stuart Weitzman and Kate Spade New York), emphasized that the younger generation—especially Gen Z has an increasing emphasis on traceability and sustainability. This generation is keenly interested in understanding where their products come from and the processes involved in their creation. Duran elaborated on how Tapestry’s brands are adopting transparency initiatives, such as Coach Topia, which allows consumers to delve into the complexities of upcycling and sustainable production.
The key takeaway? Traceability has moved from being a niche concern to a central factor in consumer decision-making. This growing demand for transparency is compelling brands to re-assess and openly disclose their supply chains. It signifies a larger movement towards accountability and ethical practices within the fashion industry. By embracing transparency, brands not only drive positive change and innovation but also foster deeper, more trusting relationships with their customers.
(Left to Right) Pamela James, author and founder of Paloma St. James, and Janet Mandell, founder of Janet Mandell Luxury & Couture Designer Clothing Rentals, Andrew Curtis of Clearco, & Cassell Ferere, founder of PAGE Magazine and Fashion Contributor at Forbes.com.
2. Fashion is Growth:
Imagine transforming sustainability from a mere trend into a strategic advantage that drives both innovation and growth. Pamela James, author and founder of Paloma St. James, and Janet Mandell, founder of Janet Mandell Luxury & Couture Designer Clothing Rentals, provided compelling perspectives on how integrating sustainability can redefine business success. James explored the concept of “modular fashion,” which enables consumers to customize garments, thereby extending their lifecycle and reducing waste. Mandell's innovative rental model offers access to luxury fashion while mitigating the environmental impact of overconsumption. Andrew Curtis of Clearco discussed how entrepreneurs can build sustainable business models without sacrificing scalability.
Moderating this discussion was Cassell Ferere, founder of PAGE Magazine and Fashion Contributor at Forbes.com. With his extensive background in media and fashion, Ferere adeptly guided the conversation, emphasizing the crucial intersection of sustainability and business innovation. His focus on sustainable and inclusive fashion through PAGE Magazine, added a valuable perspective on how companies can grow responsibly while aligning with modern consumer values.
This evolution in fashion, marked by modular designs and rental pieces, encourages us all to rethink our values and envision a future where style and sustainability seamlessly coexist. It’s a compelling reminder that fashion can be both beautiful and responsible. Additionally, as magazines like PAGE Magazine and outlets like Forbes increasingly integrate sustainability into their coverage, they play a crucial role in spreading awareness and shaping consumer attitudes. This shift in media not only informs but also inspires, reinforcing that the journey toward a more sustainable industry is one we can all contribute to.
Caption: Ricardo Larroude, co-founder of Larroude & Julia Kisla, CEO of The Lions Talent Managment.
3. Fashion is Influence:
In a world where consumer choices are increasingly driven by values and narratives, understanding the power of influence and storytelling has become essential for brand success. Ricardo Larroude, co-founder of Larroude, and Julia Kisla, CEO of The Lions Talent Managment, touched on the critical role of influence and storytelling in consumer choice. Larroude emphasized that building consumer trust is at the heart of any brand's success, and this trust is fostered through authenticity and unique storytelling. Kisla highlighted how consumer decisions are no longer just about the product itself but the values and story behind it. Consumers are looking for brands that reflect their own values, and imagery plays a crucial role in communicating these ideals.
It’s worth reflecting on which brands truly prioritize their commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. How do the stories and values they convey align with your own principles? Are there brands that stand out to you for their authentic and impactful narratives?
Pamela Shainhouse of The Shainhouse Group, Mindy Scheier of Runway of Dreams Foundation, & Gary Wassner of Hilldun Corporation.
Andy Yu, Sustainable Fashion Artist and Designer, wearing one of his creations made from recycled materials.
4. Fashion is Inclusion & Responsibility:
What if fashion could be both inclusive and sustainable, seamlessly woven together in every piece, In this panel, industry veterans Gary Wassner of Hilldun Corporation, Mindy Scheier of Runway of Dreams Foundation, and Pamela Shainhouse of The Shainhouse Group explored this very concept. Scheier, in particular, highlighted the growing need for adaptable clothing to serve people with disabilities. Inspired by her son's struggle to wear jeans due to his condition, she was driven to explore how inclusivity and sustainability can coexist. Scheier creatively repurposed old jeans and everyday materials like Velcro, thread, and a few magnets. This innovative approach propelled her to become a household name in the adaptive fashion world. The panel emphasized that sustainable and inclusive fashion shouldn’t be segmented into separate categories but should instead be considered holistically, as part of the broader mission to serve everyone. Simple changes in design and production can cater to a more diverse audience while keeping sustainability at the forefront.
Mindy Scheier’s work demonstrates how even small changes in design can make a big difference in inclusivity and sustainability.
Adding to this conversation, Andy Yu, Sustainable Fashion Artist and Designer, underscored the crucial intersection of inclusivity and ethical fashion. Yu’s work emphasizes not only the importance of sustainability but also the need for fashion to be inclusive and responsible. By integrating eco-friendly materials and transparent practices, Yu’s approach aligns with the broader mission of making fashion accessible and responsible for all. His dedication to fostering a more inclusive industry reflects a commitment to both ethical practices and diverse representation in fashion.
BEHIND THE SCENES
Me in the green jacket, fully immersed in the discussion, taking in valuable insights from the panel.
Wearing my sustainable Lucy Loafer Mule made from apple leather and accessorized with the modular Rhinestone Chain Link Straps. Embracing style and purpose in every step!
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Fashinnovation Worldwide Talks 11th Edition showcased the future of fashion as one that prioritizes sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. The industry’s leaders are driving meaningful change by focusing on traceability, AI-driven supply chains, and sustainable business models. As fashion continues to evolve, it’s clear that consumers are seeking more than just aesthetic appeal—they want authenticity, responsibility, and a connection to the values that brands represent. The insights shared at this event highlight the path forward, emphasizing that the future of fashion is as much about ethics as it is about style.
Keep Killin’ It With Kindness,
Rose
Watch the Fashinnovation World Wide Talks 11th edition playback.
Check out sustainable media outlets: PAGE Magazine
Learn more about: Larroude, Paloma St. James, Janet Mandell Rentals, Runway of Dreams Foundation, The Shainhouse Group, Hilldun Corporation, The Lions Talent Managment, Clearco, Tapestry, and Andy Yu.
All Photos courtesy of Fashinnovation.
