Christopher Raeburn’s latest Timberland collection is his most innovative yet
With Earthkeepers, the veteran British designer encourages us to look after our planet and buy only what we need – in this case, high-tech garments made from recycled and natural materials built to last a lifetime.
Style
Words: Jade Wickes
Ever since graduating from London’s Royal College of Art in 2006, Christopher Raeburn has been hell-bent on establishing sustainable means within fashion, often using deadstock or surplus fabrics in his innovative, functional designs. Since 2018, he’s carried this ethos forward into his tenure as creative director of Timberland.
Fittingly, the brand’s AW21 gender neutral collection, titled Earthkeepers, sees Raeburn reimagining classic Timberland archive pieces, sustainably, without compromising on style. “Take only what you need”, a sort of battle cry for the fashion industry to design better, is the capsule’s unofficial motto. And that goes for us lot, too.
Raeburn describes Earthkeepers as an “always evolving experiment to bring together responsible design, innovation and a unique archival approach to product creation,” adding that this collection “brings a more progressive edge to the Timberland brand while also pushing boundaries as we work toward a greener future.”
This collection isn’t just about pushing boundaries in terms of sustainability, though – it’s also about breaking them. Each item is made from recycled and natural materials, as Raeburn aims for Timberland products to have a net positive impact on nature by 2030. As it turns out, Earthkeepers essentials are great to wear while out in nature, too. Phew.
The GreenStride™ Edge Waterproof Boots feature soles made from 75 per cent renewable sugarcane and natural rubber from trees, with lining made from 50 per cent recycled plastic. A cosy, oversized puffer jacket is filled with entirely recycled down feathers, and regenerative leather used throughout the capsule has been sourced from farms that use regenerative agricultural practices – which gives land a chance to absorb carbon, retain water and restore biodiversity.
Looking good and doing your bit? Not too shabby.
A limited selection of Earthkeepers items are available on Timberland’s website. Take only what you need.
