The CFDA and Lexus are bringing an expanded eye to the issues of sustainability and eco-conscious design with their revamped CFDA + Lexus Fashion* Initiative program. Instead of a one-year competition, the project has been reworked as a 17-month virtual residency where 10 finalists will participate in workshops, mentorships, and field visits. The goal is not only to educate designers on new methods of environmentally friendly practices, but to award prizes for most improved sustainability practices: A first-place winner will receive $150,000, while two runners-up will receive $50,000 each.
The finalists for the 2015-2017 program are Brother Vellies, Dezso by Sara Beltran, Erin Snow, K/ller Collection, Nicholas K, Prabal Gurung, Svilu, Tome, Wwake, and Zero + Maria Cornejo. Some entrants, like Zero + Maria Cornejo, have competed in past CFDA/Lexus Eco-Fashion Challenges (the program’s former iteration), but are dedicated to continuing their commitment to learning more about sustainability. “It’s been a part of my passion in design for a long time, and I’m proud to be a part of this next step,” said Cornejo. “Having a beautiful world to live in is one of our greatest luxuries.”
Before celebrating their inclusion in the initiative tonight on the Lower East Side with Olivia Wilde, several finalists chatted with Vogue.com about why sustainability matters to them. “There is a lot of talk about sustainability for obvious reasons, but I’m confident that all designers can follow better practices and rally together to make sure they’re implemented,” said Prabal Gurung. “This initiative will allow us to further educate our mills, factories, each and every vendor, and bring attention to local artisans, whether right here in New York, overseas in Nepal, or elsewhere. It’s going to be an incredibly educational experience and one that truly makes a difference.”
Sara Beltran echoed Gurung’s sentiment, explaining that the opportunity to participate in the challenge will be a learning experience for how to restructure her business in a more eco-friendly way. “My love of the ocean and nature had a very important role in the creation of my company, but hoping my decisions have a positive impact is not enough,” she said. “I want to learn how to do it.”
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