Stella McCartney partners with Thélios on sustainable eyewear collections

Stella McCartney has signed a long-term partnership with Thélios, the eyewear division of LVMH, to create sustainable eyewear collections starting with the SS21 season.

In keeping with the British designer's long term commitment to using sustainable materials, the first collection, which debuts in November 2020, will incorporate a raft of sustainable features like bio-lenses, composed of 39% castor oil with a carbon reduction emissions of 40% on the raw material.

In addition, the frames will feature an ecological version of bio-acetate, composed of fibres derived from wood and cotton seeds, plant-based plasticisers and 68% organic carbon content. For the first time, Stella McCartney Kids collection will also feature bio-acetate.

“Since day one, we have been committed to creating materials that are the most desirable, with the least impact on the planet – including in the plastic-heavy luxury eyewear category. We introduce to Thélios our bio-tech solutions and sustainable innovation, and are thrilled to have their experts join us in growing Stella McCartney eyewear’s eco-friendly vision," Stella McCartney said.

The partnership follows the LVMH group's support of the Stella McCartney brand, which was announced a year ago. The luxury conglomerate took a minority stake in Stella McCartney and pledged to support the brand's sustainable development. A year earlier, McCartney had bought back the 50% stake in the business that had been owned by rival luxury group Kering.

Thélios produces eyewear for a number of LVMH houses including Celine, Loewe, Fenty and Kenzo. "We are delighted to welcome Stella McCartney to the Thélios family at a time when sustainability and protecting the environment could not possibly be more important for us and our industry. Her unique vision will also benefit our other Maisons that are truly committed to limiting their environmental footprint and using sustainable materials," Thélios CEO Giovanni Zoppas said.