New York Fashion Week Fall 2025 is making headlines for more than just cutting-edge designs and star-studded front rows—it’s also putting a spotlight on sustainability. One of the standout brands leading the NYFW eco-conscious charge is Collina Strada, known for its innovative approach to fashion, blending bold aesthetics with ethical production.

Designer Hillary Taymour has once again proven that sustainability doesn’t mean sacrificing creativity, as her latest collection titled "Fempire" takes center stage at NYFW with an environmentally conscious twist.

Collina Strada Fall 2025; Photo: Umberto Fratini for GoRunway.com

Collina Strada’s Commitment to Sustainability

For years, Collina Strada has prioritized eco-friendly practices, and this season is no different. Taymour continues to experiment with upcycled materials, deadstock fabrics, and unconventional textile reuse, reinforcing her brand’s mission to reduce fashion waste. This season’s collection integrates repurposed vintage textiles, hand-dyed and naturally sourced colors, zero-waste pattern making techniques, and biodegradable trims and embellishments; these elements ensure that the brand’s impact on the environment remains as minimal as possible, all while delivering high-fashion statements that push creative boundaries.

The "Fempire" Collection: Bold, Avant-Garde, and Conscious

Collina Strada’s Fall 2025 "Fempire" collection is as much about social commentary as it is about fashion. The collection challenges conventional norms by incorporating exaggerated silhouettes, gender-fluid tailoring, draped asymmetry, and dramatic layering, all crafted from sustainable materials. Some of the key standout pieces include deconstructed denim, recycled knitwear, and hand-painted trench coats.

A Deeper Message

Collina Strada has never been a brand to shy away from activism, and the Fall 2025 runway show was no exception. Models walked the runway with messages promoting sustainability, ethical consumption, and a call for the fashion industry to rethink its impact on the planet.

The show also featured interactive elements, where audience members could scan QR codes on the garments to learn more about their origins, sustainability credentials, and the artisans involved in their production.

Why Collina Strada's Approach Matters

With the fashion industry being one of the largest contributors to global waste, brands like Collina Strada are proving that high fashion and sustainability can coexist. The brand’s consistent dedication to ethical production sets a new standard for emerging designers who want to prioritize environmental consciousness without compromising on artistic expression.

This collection further cements Collina Strada as a leader in sustainable fashion, not only encouraging designers to embrace eco-friendly practices but also inspiring consumers to make more thoughtful wardrobe choices.

How to Support Sustainable Fashion Like Collina Strada

With the fashion industry being one of the largest contributors to global waste, brands like Collina Strada are proving that high fashion and sustainability can coexist. The brand’s consistent dedication to ethical production sets a new standard for emerging designers who want to prioritize environmental consciousness without compromising on artistic expression.

This collection further cements Collina Strada as a leader in sustainable fashion, not only encouraging designers to embrace eco-friendly practices but also inspiring consumers to make more thoughtful wardrobe choices.

If you’re looking to integrate more sustainability into your own wardrobe, here are a few ways to take inspiration from Collina Strada:

Shop Second-Hand and Vintage Clothing

Instead of buying new, explore thrift stores, vintage boutiques, online resale platforms (ex. Depop, Curtsy), or clothing swaps to extend the life cycle of garments. Shopping second-hand not only reduces waste but also allows you to find unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that set your wardrobe apart.

Upcycle and Repurpose Your Old or Damaged Clothes

Get creative by repurposing outdated pieces in your closet before discarding them and think about how they can be transformed. Use clothing to create new textiles and designs, add embroidery or appliques to customize boring and outdated pieces, and use your imagination to develop new looks. Upcycling reduces textile waste and allows for creative self-expression through fashion. Follow my new YouTube channel, because very soon I will be posting free sewing patterns with tutorials and a lot of upcycling ideas!

Donate or Resell Instead of Throwing Clothes Away

Instead of tossing unwanted clothes, let someone else love them. Donate to thrift store and charities like Dress for Success or The Salvation Army. You can also resell them on platforms like ThredUp.

Support Sustainable Brands and Invest in High Quality

Research and invest in designers who prioritize ethical production and responsible sourcing such as ethical labor practices, transparent sourcing, and eco-friendly materials. Fast fashion manufacturing not only exploits unethical labor practices and harms the environment, but garments are also typically made with cheaper and lower quality materials to reduce costs. By investing in well made products and durable fabrics like organic cotton, linen, and wool, you can reduce textile waste.

Be Mindful of Greenwashing

Many brands claim to be sustainable but engage in misleading marketing tactics. Do your research by:

Checking if the brand provides full supply chain transparency.
Looking for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) or Fair Trade.
Avoiding brands that produce excessive collections while claiming sustainability.

Take Care of Your Clothes to Extend Their Lifespan

One of the easiest ways to be more sustainable is to properly care for your garments so they last longer:

Wash in cold water to reduce energy use and preserve fabric quality.
Air dry instead of using a dryer to prevent shrinkage and fiber damage.
Use a steamer or gentle ironing instead of excessive machine washing.
Store clothing properly—fold knits to avoid stretching and hang delicate items to prevent creasing.

Learn to Sew and Mend

Extending the life of your clothing through repairs reduces waste significantly. Instead of discarding clothing with minor damage, repair it yourself! You’ll not only save money on replacing items, but you’ll also contribute to a circular fashion economy.

Follow and Support Sustainable Fashion Creators

Stay informed and inspired by following fashion designers, brands, and influencers who focus on eco-conscious fashion. Watching DIY upcycling tutorials, styling videos, and sustainability discussions can help you make more mindful choices in your shopping habits.

Final Thoughts: Small Changes Make a Big Impact

Sustainable fashion doesn’t mean you have to overhaul your entire wardrobe overnight. By making small, intentional choices, you can reduce waste, support ethical practices, and still express your personal style. Whether you choose to upcycle your clothes, invest in long-lasting pieces, or shop second-hand, every step toward sustainability contributes to a greener and more ethical fashion industry.

Collina Strada NYFW Fall 2025