Stella McCartney honored at The Fashion Awards 2017 with new innovation prize

Fashion designer Stella McCartney has been named as the first creative to receive a brand new Special Recognition Award for Innovation at The Fashion Awards 2017.

The British entrepreneur, known for her luxury clothing label and for pushing the boundaries of sustainable fashion, will be honored at the awards ceremony in London on December 4.

"I'm incredibly proud to get this award," said McCartney in a statement. "I am hoping that as being the first recipient, I can inspire other design houses to follow suit and to make this the most prestigious award, not just a one off."

"Stella is a fashion pioneer, she has created a modern vegetarian business that in turn has led her to be at the forefront of sustainable sourcing and material innovation," added Chairman of the British Fashion Council Dame Natalie Massenet. "She is proof that high and ethical fashion combined can create astonishing results and her innovative approach to the industry is an inspiration to us all."

McCartney began her career as Creative Director of the French luxury house Chloé before setting up her own label, which has grown to encompass women's ready-to-wear, menswear, childrenswear, accessories, lingerie, swimwear and fragrance. She was also one of the first high-end designers to venture into sportswear collaborations, via her Adidas by Stella McCartney collection.

Her commitment to environmental issues means that she has never used any leather, fur, animal skins or feathers in her designs, opting instead for vegetarian leather and sustainably sourced viscose from certified forests. One of the most recent innovations came to light a few months ago, when she revealed she was working with Bolt Threads, using bioengineered silk.

Held annually in partnership with crystal house Swarovski, The Fashion Awards recognize creativity and innovation in fashion, celebrating the designers and industry figures that have broken new ground over the past 12 months.