Many pigments and dyes are not only valuable molecules in manufacturing, but also environmental pollutants. Stemming from the observation of the slow pace of change taking place to counter the ‘fast fashion’ phenomenon and its environmental consequences, this critical review highlights the importance not only of biotechnological approaches but also of a sustainable leadership to achieve a future-proof fashion industry. Science has been producing sustainable alternatives to counter the issue of dyes, but this is not enough. A change in the business attitude and leadership approach of the organizations that operate in the industry is needed. Only through the successful combination of new technologies and forward-looking decision-making will it be possible to alter the status quo and deal with the multiple environmental challenges that businesses are and will be facing.

Many pigments and dyes are not only valuable molecules in manufacturing, but also pollutants. Science has certainly been producing sustainable alternatives to counter the issue of dyes, but this is not enough. There is also a need for change in the business attitude and leadership approach of the organizations that operate in the industry. Only through the successful combination of new technologies and forward-looking decision making, it will be possible to alter the status quo and deal with the multiple environmental and supply chain challenges that these businesses are and will be facing. With a focus on colorants, this critical review article will reflect on the importance of both a biotechnological approaches and sustainable leadership to achieve a sustainable, forward-looking fashion industry.