Lady LUX

The winners of the second annual Council of Fashion Designers of America/Lexus Eco-Fashion Challenge presented their environmentally sustainable lines on Feb. 9 at the MADE at Milk Studios. As part of New York Fashion Week, the event congregated fashion editors and buyers to check out the socially conscious designs of the three winning designers: Marcia Patmos of New York, John Bartlett of New York and Johnson Hartig from Los Angeles.

Contestants were challenged to produce an apparel or accessory collection that promoted environmentally responsible design. As at least 25 percent of the items had to be created in an ecologically friendly manner. The entries used techniques ranging from recycled plastic and reclaimed wood to minimal packaging and non-chemically treated fabrics.

Patmos used a variety of sustainable elements, such as waste-free garment production, vegetable-tanned leather and animal-friendly faux fur. Bartlett’s “Future-Rustic” line was mostly created with cruelty-free, plant-based materials such as organic cottons and recycled synthetic materials. Hartig, who co-designed Libertine clothing, likewise used environmentally-friendly methods.

“Seeing the winning collections come to life on the runway is truly a thrill for us at Lexus,” Brian Smith, vice president of marketing for Lexus, said in a statement. “By partnering with the CFDA to create the Eco-Fashion Challenge, Lexus is encouraging sustainable lifestyles that don’t sacrifice style or luxury. We’re proud to support these industry thought-leaders as they share our passion for accelerating change in their respective field. ”

Each winning designer was awarded $25,000 to fund the development of his or her lines. A panel of judges determined the three winning proposals, including Simon Collins (Parsons the New School For Design), Zanna Roberts Rossi (Marie Claire), Scott Hahn (Rogan/Loomstate), Julie Gilhart (consultant), Steven Kolb (CFDA) and Lisa Smilor (CFDA). Winners were chosen after weighing their design credibility, business acumen and eco-commitment, with a focus on eco-fabrics, materials, processes and packaging.

Founded in 1962, The Council of Fashion Designers of America, Inc. is a nonprofit trade organization that fronts efforts across the industry. With more than 400 leading designers as members, the association supports the annual CFDA Fashion Awards and programs for professional development and scholarships, among other activities.

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