Sustainable LUXURY

Prada launched its first Re-nylon collection in 2019 and expanded it with new models last year. But what are these sustainable materials? We undertook an exciting research journey in the name of the environment.

Sustainability is a concept that can’t be ignored in the luxury world nowadays. Luxury jewelers and fashion designers definitely should not neglect sustainable practices, because the public keeps a critical eye on them. A race for sustainability has begun. In 2019, at the very forefront, the Italian luxury brand Prada launched a “Capsule” bag collection, consisting of 6 classic accessories for men and women made of re-nylon. It was of paramount importance for Prada to adhere to its commitment for sustainable fashion and business practices when it was developing the Re-nylon concept. The result is really something to be proud of. Re-nylon is a 100% recyclable technological marvel. It is made entirely from regenerated fibers that, according to Prada, “are obtained by recycling and purifying plastics from oceans, fishing nets, waste disposal sites and textile waste all over the world.” By depolymerizing and then re-transforming these materials into new polymers and threads, the material can be regenerated and processed into new nylon fabric. Then it is used to create Re-nylon collections. Prada pledges that the use of ECONYL yarn for the Prada Re-nylon collection will actively contribute to reducing global warming by up to 90%. Prada followed up on this positive promise in 2020 by once again expanding the Re-nylon collection. Pieces were added to the ready-to-wear collection including jackets, cocktail dresses, coats and skirts. For the first time, footwear was also integrated into the collection in the form of combat boots, as well as low- and high-top sneakers. To top it off, Prada shows how the “supply chain of this project” is accomplished through a collaboration with National Geographic. A documentary depicting the internal processes that lead to the creation of the Re-nylon – from the ocean, across all continents, to Europe and into the exclusive Prada boutiques worldwide where the pieces are available.