Prada re-launches its cult nylon bag in recycled ocean plastic

The world of high-end fashion has often shunned sustainability in favour of exclusive, occasionally controversial fabrics – with Stella McCartney the only luxury label truly committed to conscious practices.

Dipping their toe into the pool of sustainability, however, is Prada, who have made the refreshing decision to launch a pioneering new project which stays true to their iconic aesthetic whilst reflecting the "changing demands" of both their customer and our physical environment.

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Re-launching their cult nylon bags in Econyl (a unique, regenerated nylon), Prada have teamed up with textile yarn producer, Aquafil, in a bold move towards sustainability.

So what exactly is this material? "Econyl nylon is obtained through the recycling and purification process of plastic waste collected from oceans, fishing nets, and textile fibre waste", the brand explains.

"Through a process of depolymerization and re-polymerisation, [it] can be recycled indefinitely, with no loss of quality."

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But is this just a tokenistic launch in order to be seen to be conscious, without truly committing to the cause? Thankfully not, as Prada have revealed that their ultimate goal is to convert all of their virgin nylon into this regenerated nylon by 2021.

"A forward-thinking ethos is intrinsic to the cultural make-up of Prada: invention, experimentation, progress", the brand revealed.

The sustainable collection, entitled 'Prada Re-Nylon', launched with six styles for both men and women – the belt bag, the shoulder bag, a tote, a duffle and two backpacks.