The Hemp Revival

We love ethical fashion and are enjoying the rise and rise of hemp as a fabric. And we think the folds at the back at this Versace hemp-silk evening dress are just luscious!

Versace hemp-silk evening dress

Hemp has traditionally suffered because of its association with cannabis and hippies. Remarkably, the cultivation of the plant has been banned in America since the Fifties.


The fabric is sustainable, lasts longer, becomes softer and more comfortable the longer you use it. Those who suffer from allergies will love it as no pesticides are used in the farming of hemp. 

That’s in sharp contrast to many people's fabric of choice, cotton, which sucks up 50% of all pesticides used in farming in the United States – even though the crop only takes up 1% of farmland.  

In comparison to cotton, hemp is warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer and more durable. More and more designers are being drawn to hemp because of its low impact on the environment. Hemp fibres are known for being highly absorbent, UV resistant, antimicrobial and long-lasting.

It’s no surprise that the vegetarian Stella McCartney is at the forefront of those designers embracing hemp. These smashing espadrilles remind us of the summer days to come.

Stella McCartney's hemp espadrilles

Versace, Donna Karan, Vera Wang, Armani and Ralph Lauren are all dabbling with the fabric. This outfit has all the distinctiveness of the Vera Wang touch. The American designer has used hemp-silk fabric to very fine effect here.

  Vera Wang's organic hemp-silk skirt and bustier

We're also keeping our eye on Enamore who produce eco-friendly underwear.

Linda Loudermilk is one of the leaders in ethical fashion. In fact, Elle magazine have dubbed her the 'Vivienne Westwood of eco'. Here's a sample of some of her work. Delightfully edgy is what we call it.

Designs of Linda Loudermilk, one of the leaders in eco-fashion

It also seems like U2 lead singer, Bono has roped his wife into his attempt to save the world. Ali Hewson has set up her own ethical label Edun.

What do you make of hemp and the ethical fashion movement? Are you keen to adopt it or do you think it is passing fad?