Bringing Back the 2000s Sustainably

Does anyone remember those iconic Prada nylon mini bags on the arms of our favorite early 2000s celebs? I do and yes I was born in the 90s. I loved my Prada nylon backpack more than anything and I wish I still knew where it was. However I’m not here to talk about how small shoulder bags are making a comeback, we’ve all seen them on the arms of every celeb recreating iconic 2000s fashion that we embodied in all our Juicy Couture glory. I’m here to tell you that Prada is bringing back nylon with sustainability in mind.  

Prada Re-Nylon, is Prada’s initiative to adapt their classic nylon bags into a more sustainable fabric. Back in 1984 when Miuccia Prada experimented with the fabric and ultimately introduced the Nylon Backpack, nylon is mostly made of synthetic fabrics such as polyester, that as we all know comes with environmental consequences.  The re-launch of the Linea Rossi line at Prada in 2018, made up of largely nylon pieces led to the debut of Prada Re-Nylon in 2019.

This collection is made up of 100% recycled nylon pieces. As with many of these new initiative’s, new technology has been integral in creating this new collection. Italian textile mill Aquafil has developed Econyl, which is a created by upcycling industrial nylon such as fishnets and carpets. Econyl is a virgin nylon material, that is estimated to save 70,000 barrels of petroleum every 10,000 tons of Econyl. I can’t comprehend 70,000 barrels, but using less petroleum is never a bad way to help the environment.  

Prada as with many of the brands we have highlighted is donating a portion of its proceeds to UNESCO, a non-profit committed to creating education programs about sustainability.  UNESCO has also partnered with National Geographic to create a video series about new technology in contemporary recycling.

As we see our favorite early 2000s trends making a comeback, we’ll make sure to keep you up to date with any influx of vintage Prada Nylon backpacks, because buying thrift is also buying eco-friendly. I’m just hoping that low-rise jeans don’t make a comeback as well, but maybe that just me…