The fashion industry is often criticized for its environmental impact, ethical concerns, and fast fashion’s relentless pace. But can fashion ever truly have a conscience? Indré Rockefeller, co-founder of Paravel and former fashion editor, believes it can—and she’s setting out to prove it.
Reimagining Sustainable Fashion
Indré Rockefeller’s journey into sustainable fashion began when she noticed the glaring disconnect between luxury and environmental responsibility. “The fashion industry is one of the largest polluters in the world,” she notes, “but it doesn’t have to be that way.” With her brand Paravel, Rockefeller is championing sustainable luxury, focusing on creating travel products that are stylish, durable, and kind to the planet.
Paravel’s designs emphasize eco-innovation, using upcycled materials, recycled plastics, and sustainable practices in manufacturing. Their products, like the Aviator suitcase, are made from recycled polycarbonate, aluminum, and upcycled leather. This approach not only reduces waste but also demonstrates that sustainability can coexist with luxury and design.
The Ethical Imperative
For Rockefeller, conscious fashion is not just about sustainability—it’s about ethics. She believes brands have a responsibility to consider the impact of their supply chains on workers and communities. This means ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and transparent practices. Paravel prioritizes working with suppliers that share these values, promoting ethical production at every step.
“We want to inspire a shift in the industry,” Rockefeller says. “It’s not just about making beautiful products; it’s about making them the right way.”
Challenging Consumer Mindsets
Changing the way fashion operates also requires changing how consumers think. Rockefeller is a strong advocate for mindful consumption, encouraging people to buy less but buy better. She emphasizes the importance of investing in high-quality, versatile pieces that stand the test of time, rather than succumbing to the endless cycle of trends.
Paravel’s commitment extends to its packaging, which is entirely plastic-free, and its carbon-neutral shipping process. By addressing every aspect of the product lifecycle, Rockefeller hopes to set a new standard in the industry.
The Future of Fashion
Indré Rockefeller’s vision shows that fashion can indeed have a conscience. It requires a fundamental shift—from how brands produce to how consumers purchase. But with industry leaders like Rockefeller at the helm, the future of fashion looks more thoughtful, ethical, and sustainable. In her words, “Fashion can—and should—be a force for good.”
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