In a bold move that’s grabbed international attention, eco-fashion advocate Livia Firth has returned the MBE she received for her contributions to the fashion industry.
The 56-year-old, formerly married to Oscar-winning actor Colin Firth, shared a striking video on social media showing herself tearing up the certificate and explained her decision in a letter to St James’s Palace.
Her protest comes in response to what she calls Britain’s “appeasement” of US President Donald Trump during his recent visit to the UK, a display she says she could not reconcile with her values.
A Personal Statement of Principle
On Instagram, Firth held up her MBE medal, photographed it in its box, and displayed her handwritten letter—though she mistakenly dated it October 24, 2025 instead of the actual date, September 24.
In her note, she described Trump as a “horrible excuse of a human” whose rhetoric, amplified at the UN General Assembly, she believes is dangerous for both the planet and vulnerable people.
She criticized the UK government’s handling of the visit, writing that it represented a “frightening and cowardly display of appeasement” that contrasted sharply with the values she associates with King Charles.
Championing Sustainability on the Global Stage
Livia Firth, born in Rome, co-founded Eco-Age, a sustainability consultancy that has helped transform the fashion industry.
She is best known for her Green Carpet Challenge, dressing celebrities like Meryl Streep and Emma Watson in ethically-made couture during awards season.
Her MBE, which she accepted five years ago, was awarded in recognition of her work improving conditions for garment workers worldwide.
At the time, she accepted it on behalf of the activists and factory workers she had campaigned alongside, despite her personal reservations about the British Empire.
Reconciling Values with the Monarchy
Though she had long admired King Charles, whom she praised for decades of environmental and social justice work, Firth said she could no longer align her respect for him with his government’s treatment of Trump.
Signing the letter as “Livia Giuggioli (Firth),” she emphasized that her action was rooted in principle rather than personal grievance.
From Rome to Red Carpets
Firth met Colin Firth in 1996 while working as a production assistant on the BBC drama Nostromo.
They married a year later and had two sons, Luca and Matteo.
During their 22-year marriage, she became a fixture on the red carpet, promoting sustainability in fashion alongside her husband.
Their marriage ended in 2019 following a highly publicized affair and legal drama involving Italian journalist Marco Brancaccia, which included stalking accusations and a temporary reconciliation.
Despite the split, Livia Firth has maintained her global reputation as a leading advocate for ethical fashion and labor rights.
Continuing Her Activism
Beyond fashion, Firth has addressed the UN on labor rights, produced documentaries highlighting exploitation in the garment industry, and advised luxury brands on sustainability.
Returning her MBE is the latest example of her commitment to standing by her principles, even when it involves making a highly public statement against authority figures and institutions.