A Conscious Step

With small design ateliers in Stockholm, Paris, and Los Angeles; a less-is-more approach to product drops that follows the shifting fashions but feels a little less fleeting, and collaborations with a hoard of independent designers, including Susan Fang, Sindiso Khumalo and A.W.A.K.E. Mode, the H&M-owned brand is definitely taking a more proactive approach than its counterparts. “One of our most important goals is to aim at 100% more sustainably sourced or recycled materials by the end of 2030,” reads the & Other Stories sustainability page, reporting a 90% increase in its quest to introduce better materials into its collection. 

The latest step in the right direction comes in an 8-piece collection in earthy tones, relaxed silhouettes and rich textures. Featuring deep chocolate-coloured tailoring, breezy ruffled shirts, dresses and statement accessories, the collection reflects the brand’s commitment to responsible sourcing and innovative fabric use. At its core is a focus on repurposing materials that would otherwise be discarded. Recycled silk, for example, is spun from pre-consumer waste – transforming remnants from the silk production process into fabric that retains its sleek feel while minimising environmental impact.

Organic mulberry silk, derived from trees cultivated without harmful pesticides also spreads across the collection. The introduction of CIRCULOSE®, a material crafted entirely from discarded textiles by dissolving pulp offers a responsible alternative to conventional viscose, which typically relies on virgin wood to be made. 

The collection also features sculptural jewellery crafted from recycled sterling silver, obtained through “urban mining” – a method where precious metals are recovered from discarded household waste. Other accessories include a boxy tote bag and a cardholder made from MIRUM®, a new plastic-free and vegan alternative to leather, composed entirely of bio-based ingredients. 

“We continuously seek new technologies and materials to evolve our designs towards becoming more circular. For us, fashion and innovation are intertwined,” says Frida Billegren, Atelier Designer at & Other Stories. This collection represents a deliberate move towards a more hopeful circular fashion model. Yet, while it’s encouraging to see high-street brands embracing such initiatives, it raises the question of why this level of innovation and ambition remains limited to a select few pieces. However, the capsule represents a subtle yet significant step towards a future where fashion and sustainability are not just compatible but are integral to one another.