NI fashion designer hits out at ‘fast fashion’ company for allegedly profiting off her designs

In a post on social media, Hope Macaulay hit out at clothing brand Fashion Nova.

Ms Macaulay’s work has been featured in Vogue and she is herself listed as a Forbes 30 Under 30 with her designs worn by Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson, Tom Daley and model Bella Hadid.

“Yet again, it’s incredibly disheartening to see massive fast fashion companies like Fashion Nova profiting off the hard work of independent designers,” said the north coast-based designer in a statement on social media.

“My designs are not created to be mass-produced; they are unique, handcrafted pieces made with care, creativity, and a deep connection to my roots in Northern Ireland.

“This design is handmade by my local team of women knitters, and even the yarn is hand-processed, making every piece one-of-a-kind. Instead of using 100% merino wool, as in my original design — natural, renewable, and biodegradable-Fashion Nova’s replica is made with non-eco-friendly materials, compromising the quality and sustainability efforts that my team, customers and I value.”

She also shared two images of two red woollen jumpers which have decorative bows stitched onto them – one being her design and the other sold by Fashion Nova.

The Fashion Nova version of the jumper is listed for £32.99 while Macaulay’s costs £405.

The designer also called for fast-fashion brands to act more responsibly.

“The last time this happened with another fast fashion brand, they claimed to have “discarded” the copied products,” she added.

“I truly hope Fashion Nova will act more responsibly by recycling or donating these items to charity and giving back to those in need, along with donating the profits from this item.”

It isn’t the first time Fashion Nova has found itself in hot water around copying creations.

In 2022, it removed a dress accused of being similar to knitwear brand Hanifa after the head of the luxury knitwear brand called out the online company on Twitter.

Fashion Nova has also faced similar accusations from brands Kloset Evny and Knots and Vibes for recreating similar designs, while in 2019 reality television star Kim Kardashian criticised the brand for recreating a Mugler dress she wore to an awards party – just days after she appeared in it.

Closing her statement, Hope Macaulay said she was thrilled to see fans of her brand recreate their own looks using her Hope’s Wool line where she sells wool and knitting patterns.

“On (a) brighter note, thank you all for your continued support,” she added.

“Seeing you knit your own Hope Macaulay pieces using @hopeswool or wearing our knits created by my knitters brings us so much joy.

“Even a simple comment, like, or follow means so much to us! Your support empowers small designers like me to keep creating with passion and purpose.”

Fashion Nova has been contacted for comment.