In the heart of northern Paris, within the Nona Source showroom, designers delve into a world of sumptuous textiles bearing enchanting names: curly alpaca, geometrical macrame guipure, silk diamond cloque Jacquard. Yet, what truly sets them apart is their origin – they’re all sourced from “deadstocks,” the remnants left behind when designers exhaust a roll of fabric.
Once destined for incineration or obscurity in storage rooms, these discarded treasures have found new purpose thanks to initiatives like Nona Source, established three years ago by luxury giant LVMH. Co-founder Romain Brabo reflects on the revelation of discovering these dormant beauties, untouched for years post-collection. In the past year alone, Nona Source facilitated the sale of approximately 280 kilometers (170 miles) of fabric, equivalent to around 140,000 garments.
Among its clientele is Arturo Obegero, a 30-year-old Spanish designer committed to upcycling and recycling materials. Despite operating from a modest home workspace, Obegero has garnered prestigious commissions, such as crafting a sheer corset dress for Beyoncé during her Renaissance tour, underscoring both his talent and the growing allure of eco-conscious design. Emphasizing his deep connection to nature, Obegero highlights the pivotal role Nona Source plays in propelling him into the industry’s upper echelons.
Nargis Fakhri on the watersports she likes to indulge in!
As societal pressure mounts on the fashion realm to confront its mounting waste and environmental footprint, initiatives like Nona Source are gaining traction. Luxury conglomerates like LVMH are not only capable of spearheading such endeavors but also recognize the inherent marketing potential. While LVMH embarks on ambitious sustainability ventures, including transitioning transport methods and investing in innovative textiles like vegan leather, Helene Valade, the company’s sustainability head, underscores their broader mission of reshaping perceptions of beauty.
Despite welcoming initiatives like Nona Source, some, like Thomas, express frustration at the industry’s tardiness in embracing such concepts. Nevertheless, signs of progress are evident, with an increasing proportion of Nona Source’s deadstock comprising recycled textiles. Amidst this transformation, figures like 27-year-old Charles de Vilmorin, known for his creative directorship at Rochas and his eponymous Paris label, find inspiration and significance in Nona Source’s endeavors, appreciating the rejuvenation of materials that might otherwise face oblivion.