A Fashionable “Trunk” Show – World Elephant Day with Nicole Miller

The pandemic, for the fortunate few, has been a time for reconnecting—with yourself, nature, your passions, or anything that inspires and reinforces a  positive outlook. The fashion industry, which contributes towards 10% of all carbon emissions whilst 85% of textiles get dumped every year, is embracing the “waste not, want not” adage. In taking a step towards a greener tomorrow, Nicole Miller–an iconic American designer–helps to improve the welfare of elephants in Northern Thailand through her Pre-Fall 2021 collection.

Elephants are an endangered species in Northern Thailand

Due to the pandemic, at least 85 elephant camps in Northern Thailand have closed down. As a result, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort and the Foundation haven taken in three elephants and their carers. Currently, it costs approximately US $18,000 to look after a single elephant for a year.

Rumble in the Thai Jungle inspires the collection

Nicole Miller travelled to the Northern Thailand’s ancient jungle with her close friend Sex and the City author Candace Bushnell in the early 2020, where rescued elephants roam in their natural habitat. During her stay at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, the fashion designer and style icon was introduced to a cast of gentle giants that call the luxury resort home.

Miller participated in the Walking With Giants signature experience and spent some time observing Thailand’s majestic elephants in their natural habitat. More than 20 elephants were corralled with their entire mahout (caretaker) families. The picturesque beauty of the area served as the inspiration for her Pre-Fall 2021 collection, which centred on wanderlust.

The Pre-Fall 2021 collection focuses on sustainability

Upcycled luxury fashion can be challenging to reinvent, however Miller has done it with chic aplomb. This season features upcycled distressed denim designed by artist Cara Marie Piazza to create blazers and bags, including knitwear using all natural vegetable dyes. From short skirts to playful patterns and subdued colours, the pachyderm patterns are splashed throughout the entire collection.

A percentage of online sales during the month of August will be donated to The Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation. Click here for more information.