Pinko Names Patrick McDowell Sustainability Design Director – WWD

MILAN — After debuting a one-off capsule collection collectively final September, Pinko and London-based up-and-coming designer Patrick McDowell are strengthening their partnership.

The Italian modern fashion model has named McDowell its sustainability design director, tasked with working alongside Pinko’s inventive director Caterina Negri to forge a extra accountable future for the Italian model.

A Central Saint Martins graduate, McDowell unveiled his label in 2018 at London Style Week and has at all times championed a sustainable strategy to fashion by using reclaimed materials and ethically produced deadstock supplies coming from the warehouses of manufacturers akin to Burberry and Swarovski.

Negra pointed to a brand new, extra sustainable path for the model. “For me, it’s at all times vital to create new collections that replicate my imaginative and prescient and aesthetic, however on the similar time, I’m totally conscious of our duty inside the trend business,” she mentioned. “I’m completely happy that Patrick is becoming a member of Pinko and has determined to deliver his valuable contribution and experience to facilitate our transition towards a extra eco-friendly enterprise mannequin.”

Pinko’s inventive director Caterina Negra with Patrick McDowell, the model’s newly appointed sustainability design director. 
Courtesy of Pinko.

Final 12 months, the label’s “Reimagine by Patrick McDowell” capsule was created utilizing Pinko’s discarded items, which have been deconstructed and reconstructed to create new designs, together with patchwork denim, sequined shirts and blazers, in addition to capes and coats embellished with jewelry-like particulars.

“After the success of the primary [capsule] assortment, I’m completely happy to be appointed to this new function. After this difficult 12 months, it’s extra vital than ever to evolve and develop a sustainable strategy,” McDowell mentioned.

The transfer displays Pinko’s dedication to a greener strategy to enterprise, exemplified by its state-of-the-art headquarters in Fidenza, Italy. Erected in 2005 with a mission by Italian architect Guido Canali, the plant covers a 193,750-square-foot space, which incorporates places of work and a warehouse and is flanked by utility areas for workers, in addition to inexperienced areas together with alleys and roof gardens.