Dressed To Thrive

IN THE GLITTERING WORLD of fashion, where trends shift as swiftly as the Monegasque breeze, a quieter revolution is taking hold—one that prioritizes the health of our bodies and our planet. Sustainable fabrics and natural materials are no longer niche; they’re reshaping the industry, urging us to rethink what we wear and why. Beyond reducing carbon footprints, the movement toward eco-conscious fashion emphasizes the profound connection between what we drape on our skin and our overall well-being. Synthetic fabrics, long celebrated for their durability and affordability, are now under scrutiny for their hidden dangers—from irritating our skin to releasing microfibers that may infiltrate our bloodstreams. The future of fashion lies in natural, breathable materials that nurture both our health and the environment, and leading fashion houses are embracing this shift with open arms.

The health risks of synthetics

Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic dominate fast fashion, but their convenience comes at a cost. These petroleum-based materials trap heat and moisture, creating a breeding ground for bacteria that can lead to skin irritations, rashes, and even allergic reactions.

Worse, studies suggest that synthetic clothing sheds microfibers—tiny plastic particles that may enter our bodies through inhalation or skin absorption. Emerging research, including a 2023 study from the University of Birmingham, warns that these microplastics have been found in human blood and tissues, potentially disrupting hormonal balance and contributing to long-term health issues. Nylon, in particular, has been flagged for releasing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may harm lung health when inhaled over time. Our skin, the body’s largest organ, deserves better than being cloaked in materials that suffocate it.

In contrast, natural fibers like organic cotton, linen, hemp, and silk allow our skin to breathe. These materials are hypoallergenic, biodegradable, and free from the toxic chemicals often used in synthetic production. Linen, for instance, is naturally thermoregulating, keeping you cool in Monaco’s balmy summers while wicking away moisture to prevent irritation. Hemp, a rising star in sustainable fashion, is not only durable but also antimicrobial, reducing odor and promoting skin health. Silk, long a symbol of luxury, soothes sensitive skin with its smooth texture and natural proteins. These fabrics don’t just feel better—they are better, for both our bodies and the planet.

Fashion houses leading the charge

Across the globe, iconic fashion houses are weaving sustainability into their DNA, proving that style and health-conscious choices can coexist. In Paris, Stella McCartney, a pioneer in eco-luxury, has championed natural and cruelty-free materials since her brand’s inception. Her Spring 2025 collection featured organic cotton dresses and hemp-blend tailoring, designed to caress the skin while minimizing environmental impact. McCartney’s commitment to avoiding synthetics underscores her belief that “fashion shouldn’t cost the earth—or our health.”

In Milan, Giorgio Armani has embraced sustainable practices with his “Armani/Values” initiative, prioritizing natural fibers like organic silk and responsibly sourced wool. His recent collections showcase airy linen suits and cotton knits, crafted to feel as good as they look. Armani’s focus on timeless, high-quality pieces also encourages slower consumption, reducing the need for disposable, synthetic-heavy wardrobes.

Across the pond, New York-based Gabriela Hearst has made waves with her eco-conscious designs using traceable linen and organic cotton for her elegant silhouettes. Her 2024 runway featured hand-woven hemp dresses dyed with natural plant-based pigments, free from the toxic chemicals found in synthetic dyes. Hearst’s approach proves that sustainable fashion can be both luxurious and health-conscious, prioritizing materials that don’t compromise our wellbeing.

The need for a greener future

The fashion industry, responsible for roughly 10% of global carbon emissions, must evolve beyond aesthetics to prioritize planetary and personal health. While recycling garments is often touted as a solution, it’s not the panacea it seems. Recycling processes for textiles, particularly synthetics, require significant water and energy, often perpetuating the cycle of environmental strain. Instead, the focus should shift to producing less, but better - garments made from natural, biodegradable fibers that don’t clog landfills or our bodies with microplastics. 

For future generations, this evolution is non-negotiable. Fast fashion’s reliance on cheap synthetics has fueled overconsumption, with the average person discarding 70 pounds of clothing annually, much of it non-biodegradable. By contrast, natural fibers decompose naturally, leaving no trace of harm. Brands must invest in regenerative agriculture to grow organic cotton and hemp, support ethical supply chains, and educate consumers on the benefits of buying fewer, higher-quality pieces. Governments and consumers, too, have a role - supporting policies that regulate synthetic production and choosing garments that prioritize health over fleeting trends.

A healthier wardrobe, a healthier you

In Monaco, where elegance meets consciousness, the shift toward sustainable fashion feels like a natural fit. Imagine slipping into a flowing linen dress or a soft organic cotton blouse, knowing your clothing nourishes your skin rather than harming it. Natural fibers don’t just look good - they make us feel good, inside and out. As we stand at the crossroads of style and sustainability, the choice is clear: fashion must embrace materials that honor our bodies and our planet. From Stella McCartney’s hemp innovations to Armani’s timeless linen, the industry’s brightest stars are lighting the way. Let’s dress not to kill, but to thrive - for ourselves and for generations to come.

Based in Monte Carlo, Helga Piaget is The Monegasque™ Environment Editor and an advocate for sustainable living.

By Helga Piaget

Environment Editor

Helga Piaget, the environment editor and also a senior contributing writer for The Monegasque™ , was born in Bavaria, Germany, and studied economics and art history at the University of Munich. In 1991, she married Yves Piaget and was honored to become a Monegasque citizen by the grace of HSH Prince Rainier III. Residing between Monaco and Florida, Helga is passionate about the sea and founded the nonprofit organization PASSION SEA in 2014 to promote ocean preservation through art and education. In 2018, she authored WATER IS LIFE, THOUGHTS OF OUR GENERATION.