Chanel makes global warming so this season

The fashion industry could never be heralded as an environmentally friendly industry. From the multitude of non green practises involved in the manufacturing process (tons of water used in cotton production, toxic chemicals as by-products in textile production & printing, large amounts of waste in garment creation) to the very essence of dictating the need for a new wardrobe every few months, designers & manufacturers trying to combat environmental issues are facing an uphill struggle. Consumers can be forgiven for being confused by the mixed messages put out on a regular basis – the whole industry goes anti fur, only to feature full-on furriness two seasons later … ah, silly us for thinking they actually meant it.
Recycling, upcycling, eco & enviro friendly are starting to become industry norms however, and consumers are increasingly looking for eco labels. So Chanel’s catwalk show at this year’s Paris fashion week leaves a number of question marks over the role of haute couture in the industry’s battle to become one with the environment. Karl Lagerfeld created the show, on the back of receiving the highest state honour from the French President –  commander of the French legion of honour.  The fashion glitterati cooed and clapped at ‘Shackleton Chic’ – a stunning display of unique designs, striking models & beautiful set design. The snow/ice/winter theme was set around an iceberg-scape transporting spectators to the polar regions. Very original. The fact that the iceberg itself was transported in from Sweden, and returned (recycled?) there after the show, plus the facilities needed to keep the iceberg frozen in situ & in transit, begs the question – what added cost to the environment for your prized Chanel handbag? Surely by now, in an age where frequent natural disasters put increasing pressure on the earth’s fragile resources, industry leaders should be doing everything they can to avoid causing unnecessary costs… and avoid blatantly laughing in the face of environmental concerns. Shame on you, Chanel!

(first seen in:  http://www.jkr.co.uk/design-gazette )

~ by katieyak on March 20, 2010.