Design with materials that respect our planet.

IFF champions fashion that minimises plastic and reliance on fossil-fuel-derived materials. Designers should prioritise natural, biodegradable or responsibly sourced materials, and avoid unnecessary plastic in garments, trims, packaging and accessories.

Examples: linen, hemp, organic cotton, silk and other responsibly sourced natural fibres.

Participation principle: Designers must disclose synthetic materials used in their collections, including polyester, conventional nylon, acrylic and plastic-based embellishments. Any permitted exceptions should be agreed with IFF in advance.

Give existing materials a new life.

IFF encourages designers to transform discarded garments, surplus fabrics, production offcuts and reclaimed materials into desirable, high-quality fashion. Upcycling should create new value while reducing waste and the need for virgin resources. 

Examples: reconstructed vintage garments, couture made from textile waste, redesigned deadstock fabrics and accessories created from reclaimed materials.

Participation principle: Designers must explain what has been reused or upcycled and be transparent about the proportion of reclaimed material in their products.

Celebrate timeless style over disposable trends.

IFF welcomes exceptional vintage, archival, pre-loved and restored designer pieces that demonstrate the enduring value of quality craftsmanship.

Examples: vintage couture, rare designer accessories, restored luxury handbags, heritage garments and carefully curated second-hand fashion.

Participation principle: Items must be authentic, accurately described and presented to a high standard. Designers should explain how their collection extends the life of existing products rather than encouraging unnecessary consumption.

Luxury defined by quality, integrity and intention.

IFF believes sustainable fashion should never compromise on design, creativity or quality. We champion beautifully made products that are designed to last, respect the people who make them and minimise environmental harm throughout production.

Examples: small-batch collections, artisan-made accessories, durable tailoring, traceable materials and ethically produced luxury goods.

Participation principle: Designers must be transparent about sourcing and production, respect workers' rights, avoid misleading sustainability claims and demonstrate genuine attention to quality and longevity.

Explore materials inspired by nature.

IFF supports designers creating alternatives to conventional animal-derived materials and developing innovative products from plant-based or agricultural resources.

Examples: cactus- or apple-based alternative leather, plant-dyed textiles, botanical fibres, and vegan handbags, shoes and accessories.

Participation principle: Designers must accurately disclose material composition. Where animal-free products are claimed, animal-derived components must be excluded from the products represented as vegan. Plant-based does not automatically mean plastic-free or biodegradable, so material claims must be clear and honest.