After a decade away from the limelight, Eva Mendes makes a powerful return as the face of Stella McCartney’s Winter 2024 campaign, a move that’s more than just a comeback—it’s a statement. But this isn’t any ordinary fashion campaign; it’s a call to arms for the cruelty-free fashion movement, and Mendes is leading the charge.
Why should we care about the fashion industry’s impact on animals? The numbers speak for themselves: 3.4 billion birds are killed or harmed for feather down annually, and 1.5 million crocodile skins are used by the fashion industry each year.
Mendes, who has been in hiding for the past ten years, working on her family and writing children’s books, steps back into the spotlight wearing a voluminous black gown that echoes the spirit of a black horse, a poignant nod to the animals who suffer in the name of fashion. But this isn’t just about mourning the past; it’s about a future where fashion and ethics go hand in hand.
The campaign features Mendes in a series of powerful images, each one highlighting McCartney’s commitment to sustainability and animal rights. From a chainlink crop top paired with a blush floor-length coat, a tribute to the billions of birds affected by the fashion industry, to a rich brown trench coat made from UPPEAL, a vegan alternative to exotic leathers crafted from apple waste, each look is a testament to the brand’s innovative approach to cruelty-free fashion.
This isn’t just a photoshoot; it’s a revolution. Stella McCartney, known for her staunch stance against using leather, feathers, fur, and exotic skins, is leading the industry towards a more compassionate future. And with 90% of the materials in this collection being responsibly sourced, it’s clear that luxury and ethics can coexist.
Mendes’ involvement with the brand has been a transformative experience, as she herself stated, “Working with Stella was the job I never knew I needed.” Her collaboration with McCartney is more than just a fashion campaign; it’s a celebration of a shared vision for a kinder, more sustainable world.