Stella McCartney stages marine‑themed runway protest at Paris Fashion Week
The British designer declared “war with the oceans” during a rain‑splashed runway, pairing marine‑inspired suiting with a call to end seafood over‑fishing.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Stella McCartney used her Paris Fashion Week spring/summer 2027 show on 30 September 2026 to launch a public critique of the fishing industry, declaring “war with the oceans” on a rain‑soaked runway in the British ambassador’s gardens. The front row featured singer‑actress Jennifer Lopez under an umbrella, while models walked to PJ Harvey’s “Down by the Water.”
What happened
The outdoor show, themed “under the sea,” opened in drizzle with greenery surrounding a white runway. Models wore sea‑foam, sage, coral and blush palettes, with oversized blazers, drawstring‑trimmed jackets and rain‑jacket details that evoked water. Karlie Kloss and Miranda Kerr appeared in wave‑inspired ensembles, and Juliette Binoche sat near Lopez in the audience.
What the reports add
Independent UK reported that McCartney’s collection marked the 25th anniversary of her label, which has never used leather, fur or feathers, and that the designer framed the issue in language, asking “Who makes that decision?” when referring to the naming of sea life versus seafood. The outlet also noted that McCartney screened a film featuring marine biologist Sylvia Earle, who said the collection invites viewers “beneath the blue into a world where humans are not above nature but immersed within the systems.” Another Independent piece added that Lopez wore a faux‑fur shawl over a layered Sable midi dress from McCartney’s AW26 line and that the designer’s earlier autumn/winter show had featured horses on the runway.
What was said
Backstage, McCartney told reporters, “It’s war. We’re at war with the oceans.” She also asked, “Who makes that decision?” when discussing the terminology that separates “sea life” from “seafood.” Sylvia Earle, featured in the pre‑show film, said the collection “invites viewers ‘beneath the blue into a world where humans are not above nature but immersed within the systems’.” Lopez did not speak publicly during the show.
How it came about
McCartney, a lifelong animal‑rights advocate, has previously turned her focus from land‑based animals to marine life, as noted in her earlier autumn/winter presentation that included horses. The Paris show follows her recent appearance at Milan Fashion Week, where Lopez front‑rowed for Dolce & Gabbana, underscoring the singer’s continued presence at major fashion events. McCartney’s label, founded 25 years ago, has consistently avoided animal‑derived materials, a stance that now extends to a broader environmental message about over‑fishing and marine ecosystem damage.
Key facts
- Stella McCartney declared a protest against the fishing industry at Paris Fashion Week on 30 September 2026. (independent.co.uk)
- Jennifer Lopez sat front row under an umbrella during the rain‑soaked show. (independent.co.uk)
- The runway theme was “under the sea” and featured marine‑inspired colours and silhouettes. (independent.co.uk)
- McCartney quoted, “It’s war. We’re at war with the oceans.” (independent.co.uk)
- Sylvia Earle appeared in a pre‑show film, describing the collection as immersing viewers in the ocean. (independent.co.uk)
Background
Stella McCartney’s label has never used leather, fur or feathers and has a history of animal‑rights advocacy. Earlier this month, Lopez front‑rowed at Milan Fashion Week for Dolce & Gabbana, highlighting her ongoing fashion‑week presence.
