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Modern Refinement: A Sustainable Lens on Gabriela Hearst


Introduction

As luxury fashion continues to reimagine its place in the world, few designers are reshaping that narrative as boldly—and thoughtfully—as Gabriela Hearst. With every collection, Hearst demonstrates that sustainability and refined tailoring can exist in harmony, redefining modern elegance through conscious design.


"Redefining modern elegance through conscious design and sustainable fashion innovation.” — Pilar Macchione

Collage of Gabriela Hearst SS25 runway looks featuring tailored black blazer, ivory crochet dress, and Western boots, setting the tone for modern sustainability.
Collage of Gabriela Hearst SS25 runway looks featuring tailored black blazer, ivory crochet dress, and Western boots, setting the tone for modern sustainability.


Purposeful Craftsmanship

Gabriela Hearst’s approach to sustainability is more than a philosophy—it's a measured, evolving journey. As early as 2017, the brand made its mark by presenting a runway collection using 30% deadstock fabrics, a quiet yet powerful statement against overproduction. That same year, Hearst introduced TIPA flexible packaging—bio-based alternatives to plastic that are fully compostable within six months.

Incorporating innovation, the brand even developed a silver-lined textile to reduce exposure to cell phone radiation—lining jackets and coats with care for women’s health. Each fabric, from aloe-treated linen to certified natural fibers, reflects Hearst’s commitment to marrying innovation with intention.


Building From the Ground Up

The sustainability timeline continues with architectural consciousness. In 2018, the brand opened its flagship store at 985 Madison Avenue, built using non-treated reclaimed oak and free of synthetics or chemicals. Motion sensors reduced energy use, while a filtered water fountain eliminated plastic bottles. Impressively, 90% of the material waste generated during construction was recycled.

In tandem, the Spring 2019 collection featured garments spun from wool sourced directly from Hearst’s sixth-generation family farm in Uruguay. This wasn't merely a design detail—it was a deliberate return to origin and a deeper connection to material.


Plastic-Free Milestones

By 2019, Gabriela Hearst had eliminated plastic from both the front and back of house. Recycled cardboard hangers replaced conventional options, and all packaging became compostable through TIPA systems. It was a clear signal to the industry: luxury could—and should—do better.


Rooted in Community

A defining moment came in 2021 when Gabriela Hearst partnered with the Navajo community, bridging Indigenous craftsmanship with global fashion. Alongside non-profits, the brand also celebrated work from Uruguay and Bolivia. That same year, Hearst was honored as a Leader of Change at the Fashion Awards and recognized by the Financial Times as one of the 25 most influential women of the year.


A Natural Dialogue

Our curated fashion series brings to life the spirit of Gabriela Hearst’s design philosophy—celebrating sustainability, craft, and timeless luxury through a new lens. These six curated looks reflect Hearst’s enduring ethos, offering a wearable narrative that blends eco-conscious design with tactile elegance.

Gabriela Hearst’s collections are rich in artisanal craftsmanship—from regenerative wools to hand-finished crochet—proving that fashion can be deeply intentional and beautifully constructed. This story explores:

  • Workwear revival and tailoring — through sharply structured blazers and reimagined cotton shirts

  • The shirt dress trend — seen in SS25 and forecasted to grow into FW25/26, blending volume, cutouts, and classic refinement

  • A texture-forward focus — featuring cashmere crochet, silk bouclé, and pleated cotton twill

  • The artisanal imprint — in silhouettes shaped by craftsmanship, sustainability, and culture

This is not an official Gabriela Hearst lookbook, but a creative expression built around her values—designed to inspire consumers, stylists, and brands alike.


Curated Looks

Modern Refinement: Angela’s double-breasted blazer and the crisp Cruz shirt sharpen the look against Agolde denim. A monochrome Leonora bag and open-weave pumps deliver a graphic finish. Occasion: Urban professional settings, creative boardrooms, or refined after-hours. A swipe of Chanel Rouge Coco Flash lipstick completes the look, echoing the soft pink of the Cruz shirt and adding a touch of wearable warmth.


Fashion flatlay featuring a black Gabriela Hearst blazer, blush cotton shirt, and light denim by Agolde, styled with a graphic black-and-white handbag and Chanel lipstick.
Fashion flatlay featuring a black Gabriela Hearst blazer, blush cotton shirt, and light denim by Agolde, styled with a graphic black-and-white handbag and Chanel lipstick.

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Fringe Future: A celebration of craftsmanship, this look features the Lilea fringe crochet top and Macha crochet maxi skirt, both in ivory cashmere. Though traditionally associated with winter, this lightweight cashmere is spun for breathability—offering natural temperature regulation and a soft hand feel that makes it perfect for warmer months. The texture-forward silhouette is balanced with the Demi bag in gold, black, and ivory crochet, and grounded by the Castro ankle boot in black leather. Celine’s Triomphe sunglasses introduce a touch of modern glamour, adding contrast to the artisanal softness. Occasion: Resort travel, curated fashion events, or elevated daywear with textural interest.


Crochet-themed flatlay featuring an ivory fringe top and skirt by Gabriela Hearst with black ankle boots, gold-accented crochet bag, and Celine Triomphe sunglasses.
Crochet-themed flatlay featuring an ivory fringe top and skirt by Gabriela Hearst with black ankle boots, gold-accented crochet bag, and Celine Triomphe sunglasses.

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— Triomphe Sunglasses (Celine)


Tailored by Nature: The ivory double-breasted Kees blazer paired with a light blue Ferrara shirt and ripple-wash jeans by Agolde. A Nina bag in nude snakeskin and the Andres braided pump in pearlized white leather with rose gold hardware and goatskin material complete the subtle power-dressing effect. Occasion: Gallery openings, networking lunches, or transitional season styling that balances structure and softness.



Light ivory blazer and powder-blue shirt styled with ripple-wash jeans and soft nude accessories, including a structured snakeskin bag and pearly white heels.
Light ivory blazer and powder-blue shirt styled with ripple-wash jeans and soft nude accessories, including a structured snakeskin bag and pearly white heels.

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Soft Contrast: A play on fluidity, this look combines the Flynn knit tank top in ivory silk bouclé and Chiara pleated midi skirt in camel Sea Island cotton twill, both paired with the double-breasted Kees blazer in ivory wool silk cady. The Andres braided pump in cognac multi leather adds grounded elegance, complemented by the soft Demi clutch in cognac nappa leather. Occasion: Seasonal transitions, industry events, or brunch with a modern sensibility.



Warm-toned look featuring a cream knit tank, full pleated camel skirt, ivory blazer, and mixed-material woven heels with a cognac leather clutch.
Warm-toned look featuring a cream knit tank, full pleated camel skirt, ivory blazer, and mixed-material woven heels with a cognac leather clutch.

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Soft Structure: This two-toned look combines the Enoch cropped top in wool crêpe and silk with the Ambrosia flared pants in black silk. The Fleur ballerina flat in black nappa leather with rose gold hardware grounds the look, complemented by the soft Demi clutch with chain in black nappa leather. Miu Miu Regard oval sunglasses lend a directional statement. Occasion: Creative agency meetings, downtown cultural events, or days requiring ease and sharp polish.


Two-toned Gabriela Hearst ensemble with a black-and-ivory cropped top, flared black silk pants, black clutch with rose gold chain, and black Miu Miu sunglasses.
Two-toned Gabriela Hearst ensemble with a black-and-ivory cropped top, flared black silk pants, black clutch with rose gold chain, and black Miu Miu sunglasses.

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Enoch top and Ambrosia pant are available via exclusive retailer partnerships. Similar Gabriela Hearst styles are available through the brand’s official site [https://gabrielahearst.com]



Modern Prairie: The Arabella shirtdress in white aloe linen features natural cooling and antibacterial properties. The silhouette is grounded by the black leather Capitana cowboy boot—crafted with flame-inspired detailing and a layered sole. A Demi bag in black snakeskin created from 100% elaphe adds refinement, while the Celine square sunglasses and Chanel Rouge Allure lip color complete the look. Occasion: Transitional fall styling, destination weekends, or countryside dinners with a directional mood.


Romantic prairie-inspired look featuring a white Gabriela Hearst aloe-linen shirtdress, tall black cowboy boots, a black snakeskin top-handle bag, and nude Chanel lipstick.
Romantic prairie-inspired look featuring a white Gabriela Hearst aloe-linen shirtdress, tall black cowboy boots, a black snakeskin top-handle bag, and nude Chanel lipstick.

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Closing Thoughts

From crochet textures to tailored lines, the SS25 story isn't about seasonal trends—it’s about timeless construction with a purpose. Each piece reflects the ethos of longevity, versatility, and quiet impact. Where applicable, beauty and eyewear finishes elevate the styling—adding polish, personality, and contemporary relevance.

This is not nostalgia. It’s progress. And it’s refined by nature.

All Gabriela Hearst pieces featured are sourced in alignment with the designer’s commitment to sustainable practices. Denim by Agolde. Select accessories and beauty products are noted where applicable.


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