Eco fashion designer Sarah Ratty has been exposed as a benefits cheat to the tune of £44,000.  

Winner of the “Ethical Fashion Award” at the UK Fashion Awards in June, her A-list client base includes Sienna Miller, Cate Blanchett, Macy Gray & Zoe Ball. Buying an item from her designer label “Ciel” would set you back serious amounts of cash with sweaters & cardigans selling for up to £250.

Sarah claimed the cash over five years, failing to tell Brighton council she owned a house in London. She admitted 10 charges of falsely claiming benefit between 2001 and 2006 and has been given an 8 month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months and been ordered to pay back the entire £44,000.

The designer broke her back in a car crash in 1999. She wore a back brace and was confined to a wheelchair for two years & the court heard how Ratty thought she could claim housing benefit because of her condition.

So if you’re tempted by eco friendly clothing maybe Ciel isn’t the best choice for the more conscientious among us but luckily there are a growing number of ethical clothing companies. Even larger brands like Laura Ashley are offering organic alternatives like the rather gorgeous smock shirt dress  in vintage print pictured.