It can sometimes feel like an impossible task driving sustainable progress in fashion when there are so many forces working against it. Those in power don’t want to disrupt the business models that have made them rich, and those who are motivated to subvert the status quo come up against myriad challenges — not least how to finance this transformation. With high inflation, rising interest rates and economic instability, investors have grown more cautious, favouring proven business models over those led by experimentation.

At Vogue Business’s latest Fashion Futures event, held at Somerset House in London, we gathered a range of people working in the space — from brands to startups, investors to suppliers — to discuss how we can keep going and continue to change the industry for the better, even when times are tough. Approximately 200 attendees gathered for a series of panel discussions and keynote sessions, and perused the innovation showcase, which featured a selection of startups and growth-stage companies working across circularity, next-gen materials and supply chain transparency.