Banana Republic [IG] gathers models Mayowa Nicholas, Roberto Sipos, and Suvi Riggs Koponen for their winter 2023 campaign.

Shot in Norway by Josh Olins [IG] with creative direction by Remi Paringaux and Ryan Spacey, the campaign acknowledges — not only the majesty of nature — but indirectly, its fragility.

Banana Republic’s Cashmere

Banana Republic is introducing new cashmere items connected to this campaign, including this Caro Lightweight Cashmere Cardigan [website] in 12 colors.

Refusing to promote cashmere without clarity on its sourcing standards as verified by outside agencies, Anne of Carversville notes that Banana Republic cashmere is part of an initiative called The Good Cashmere Standard (GCS).

The Guardian stressed in February, 2022 the obvious reality that cashmere has been hijacked, and they focus on GCS certification. AOC has raised this topic more times than you probably want to read about, but we will not yield on the subject.

‘Timeless Luxury’ Greenwashing

You cannot claim the mantle of ‘timeless luxury’ in 2023/24 without a clear statement of facts about your sourcing and sustainability strategies in cashmere.

AOC will not let you do that without commentary — however direct or indirect. Take note of who we do NOT promote.

We’re not PETA — who is trying to eliminate all cashmere. AOC is thumbs-down on that goal. Today we have too many brands taking responsibility for ethical cashmere sourcing [to the best of their knowledge], to even share an ad campaign for brands who don’t. Those brands are quietly blacklisted on AOC.

Note: We are not a Banana Republic affiliate, but Anne will probably change that status in 2024. We’re very pleased about where Banana Republic is going on multiple fronts and LOVE their marketing.