Stella McCartney Launches Plastic-Free, Non-Toxic and Biodegradable BioSequins

BioSequins are plastic-free, non-toxic and biodegradable, made from plant-derived cellulose.

Conventional sequins are made of plastic, often Mylar or PVC — causing significant environmental and health risks. This also contributes to the 35% of microplastics in global oceans from synthetic clothing.

Since 2010, Stella McCartney has been a PVC-free brand. The Sustainable British fashion Brand aims to only use recycled, recyclable and biobased alternatives.

Model and eco-activist Cara Delevingne (@CaraDelevingne) wears the world’s first BioSequin garment in Vogue’s April 2023 issue shot by Annie Leibovitz. Stella McCartney crafted the jumpsuit in collaboration with Radiant Matter (@Radiant.Matter).

Stella McCartney exclusive sleeveless jumpsuit was carefully handmade at the brand’s London atelier, a closely fitting all-in-one that experimentally showcases Stella McCartney innate brand DNA. This BioSequin jumpsuit is not yet commercially available, but showcases the potential of Radiant Matter’s material innovation in benefitting the health of people and planet.

Innovated from plant-derived cellulose, BioSequins are made using no metals, minerals or synthetic pigments or colourants.

“It is so special to see how Stella McCartney has worked with our BioSequins to bring them to life on this beautiful jumpsuit. We have loved her uncompromising approach to sustainability and aesthetics, which are reflected in any decision, down to the fabric and thread choice, resulting in a stunning yet fully plant-derived garment. We are delighted to partner in creating this innovative piece and the opportunity to showcase it on American Vogue,” – ELISSA BRUNATO, FOUNDER OF RADIANT MATTER.

Every fabric that sparkles, glitters or has a reflective property contains a high percentage of petroleum plastic, toxic coatings or metallised parts. Conventional sequins are made of polyester film (Mylar) or vinyl (PVC), which cause particularly significant environmental and health risks – producing toxic, bio-accumulative chemicals, including carcinogens, such as phthalates and hormone disruptors.

“I am amazed by the iridescent beauty of our BioSequin® all-in-one – handcrafted in my London atelier from plant-derived, non-toxic sequins that are even more stunning than conventional options. Who says sustainability can’t be sexy? Cara is breath-taking in this rare, precious garment and I am so grateful that Vogue has given us the platform to share it and inspire others to see the potential of a more conscious future of fashion,” – STELLA MCCARTNEY

The fashion industry as a whole continues to be one of the biggest contributors to the world’s plastic consumption problem. According to the United Nations, 70 million barrels of oil are used to make polyester and other synthetic fibres annually.

A study by Oxfam showed that British women purchase 33 million sequinned garments every festive season – with 1.7 million ending up in landfill, after only five wears. This moves from waste stores to waterways, with 35% of microplastics released into the world’s oceans coming from synthetic clothing (EEA).

Stella McCartney Fall-Winter 2023/2024 collection features exclusive vegan alternatives to leather innovated from plants, apple waste, mycelium and grapes.

“We have never used animal leather, feathers, fur or exotic skins, since day one. There is a better way.” – Stella McCartney.