The role of sustainability in Fashion Luxury: a multiple case study approach

The luxury fashion sector confronts a fundamental paradox wherein its core values of exclusivity, creativity, and heritage increasingly conflict with global sustainability imperatives. Previously perceived as protected from the environmental and social challenges affecting the broader business landscape, luxury fashion now faces intensified scrutiny regarding its significant environmental impact and opaque supply chains. It is important to remember that the fashion industry accounts for approximately 10% of global CO2 emissions and 20% of worldwide water pollution, while consuming 98 million tons of nonrenewable resources annually (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, 2017; Textile Exchange, 2022).