Cover At the 2022 Oscar Awards, Timothée Chalamet wore an upcycled Louis Vuitton suit, a nod to reducing fashion waste (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic)
At the 2022 Oscar Awards, Timothée Chalamet wore an upcycled Louis Vuitton suit, a nod to reducing fashion waste (Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic)
1 / 1
Vintage, recycled and upcycled garments take the spotlight as these celebrities champion sustainable fashion on the red carpet
In recent years, the red carpet has witnessed a significant shift towards sustainability, with numerous celebrities embracing eco-friendly fashion choices, opting for upcycled, recycled or ethically sourced materials to make a statement beyond style. Challenging traditional fashion norms, these choices are pushing luxury brands to rethink their approach to sustainability. Here are some celebrities—from proud outfit repeaters and vintage fans to designers embracing ethical practices—who have used red-carpet moments to champion sustainable, planet-friendly fashion.
Now read: Quiet elegance, sustainable excellence and the power of digital influence
1. Emma Watson
A longtime advocate for sustainable fashion, Emma Watson turned heads at the 2016 Met Gala in a Calvin Klein gown made from recycled plastic bottles. The UN Women Goodwill Ambassador has consistently promoted ethical fashion choices, even launching the Instagram account @the_press_tour to spotlight sustainable brands. Watson’s dedication to conscious fashion continues to influence designers and consumers, encouraging more environmentally responsible choices in high fashion.
Above Emma Watson at the Met Gala in 2016, wearing a Calvin Klein gown made from recycled plastic bottles (Photo by Venturelli/FilmMagic)
Emma Watson at the Met Gala in 2016, wearing a Calvin Klein gown made from recycled plastic bottles (Photo by Venturelli/FilmMagic)
1 / 1
2. Cate Blanchett
Cate Blanchett has taken outfit repetition to the red carpet with a purpose, re-wearing gowns from past events to challenge the notion that luxury fashion must always be new. At the 2020 Venice Film Festival, she wore an Esteban Cortázar gown that she first wore at the 2015 BFI London Film Festival premiere of Carol. Blanchett’s approach sends a clear message that quality craftsmanship and timeless designs deserve multiple moments in the spotlight.
3. Billie Eilish
Billie Eilish made a strong eco-conscious statement at the 2021 Met Gala in a custom Oscar de la Renta gown—on one condition: the brand had to stop using fur. Her demand led the fashion house to end its use of fur, highlighting the influence celebrities can have on industry practices. Eilish has been vocal about her commitment to sustainability, often choosing upcycled or ethically made clothing for major events, reinforcing the need for accountability in fashion.
4. Zendaya
Zendaya has consistently embraced sustainable fashion on the red carpet, including her 2020 Green Carpet Fashion Awards look—a vintage Versace gown that embodied the beauty of archival fashion. She frequently collaborates with stylist Law Roach to reintroduce vintage pieces, promoting the idea that past collections hold just as much value as new ones. Zendaya’s red carpet choices demonstrate how sustainability can be seamlessly integrated into luxury fashion without compromising on impact.
5. Stella McCartney
As both a designer and advocate, Stella McCartney has been at the forefront of sustainable fashion. At the 2018 Met Gala, she dressed several celebrities, including Miley Cyrus and Paris Jackson, in custom, eco-friendly designs. Her brand is synonymous with ethical fashion, using innovative materials such as mushroom leather and regenerated textiles. McCartney’s influence extends beyond the red carpet, shaping the future of luxury fashion with a firm commitment to sustainability.
6. Timothée Chalamet
Timothée Chalamet has made a name for himself as a fashion-forward celebrity who embraces sustainability. At the 2022 Oscars, he wore an upcycled Louis Vuitton suit, a nod to reducing fashion waste. Known for his unconventional style, Chalamet often wears vintage or repurposed clothing, proving that menswear can also play a role in the sustainable fashion movement.
7. Meghan Markle
In October 2024, Meghan Markle attended the Children's Hospital Los Angeles Gala wearing a red Carolina Herrera gown she had previously donned in November 2021 at a New York City gala. By choosing to re-wear and slightly modify the dress, Meghan showcased her commitment to sustainable fashion practices, emphasizing the importance of outfit repetition and mindful consumption.
8. Tiffany Haddish
Tiffany Haddish has made headlines for re-wearing her white Alexander McQueen gown multiple times, proving that red carpet glamour doesn't require a new dress for every event. In one of her Instagram posts, she says, “Yes the white dress made a comeback. I didn’t have time to go shopping so I pulled it out the closet.” The comedian and actress's decision to recycle her outfit sends a powerful message about the value of sustainability and the fact that repeating outfits is indeed cool.
9. Kate Middleton
Kate Middleton, known for her impeccable style, has often been seen re-wearing outfits on the red carpet and royal events. One of her most notable recycled outfits is an Alexander McQueen gown, which she wore multiple times to different events. By re-wearing this dress, Kate not only promotes the idea of reducing fashion waste but also sets a positive example for others in the public eye.
10. Demi Moore
Demi Moore made a striking statement at the 2024 Met Gala in a showstopping gown by Harris Reed, crafted from upcycled wallpaper. The black dress featured white and pink floral patterns and a distinctive heart-shaped structure extending from her hips to her shoulder, outlined by spiked feathers.
Using their influence to drive change in the fashion industry, these celebrities proving that sustainability and style are not mutually exclusive. As more high-profile figures embrace eco-conscious fashion, the industry is forced to adapt, paving the way for a greener red carpet.
NOW READ
Sinulid 2025 platforms the future generation of Filipino fashion
20 celebrities over 50 who are mastering the art of ageing gracefully
