In recent years, the fashion industry has been under increasing scrutiny for its use of animal fur in clothing. Many high-end brands have faced criticism from animal rights activists and consumers alike for their continued use of this controversial material. One brand that has made headlines for its decision to stop using fur is Versace.
Background
Versace is an Italian luxury fashion company founded by designer Gianni Versace in 1978. The brand is known for its bold designs and high-end materials, including leather, silk, and fur. For many years, Versace was among the many luxury brands that used animal fur in their collections.
The Change
In March 2018, Versace announced that it would no longer use fur in its collections. The decision was made in response to pressure from animal rights activists and changing consumer attitudes towards animal welfare.
In a statement released at the time, Donatella Versace, the brand’s creative director, said: “Fur? I am out of that… I don’t want to kill animals to make fashion. It doesn’t feel right.”
The Impact
Versace’s decision to stop using fur was widely praised by animal rights groups and ethical fashion advocates. PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) called it a “compassionate milestone” and urged other luxury brands to follow suit.
Since then, other high-end brands such as Gucci, Michael Kors, and Burberry have also pledged to stop using real fur in their collections. This trend towards more sustainable and ethical fashion reflects changing attitudes among consumers who are increasingly conscious of the impact of their purchases on the environment and animals.
The Alternatives
While many luxury brands have pledged to stop using real fur in their collections, some continue to use faux fur as an alternative. Faux (or fake) fur is a synthetic material that mimics the look and feel of real fur without harming animals. However, there are concerns that the production of faux fur can be harmful to the environment due to its reliance on petrochemicals and other non-renewable resources.
Another alternative to animal fur is plant-based materials such as cotton, hemp, and bamboo. These materials are more sustainable than animal fur or faux fur because they are renewable and biodegradable. However, they may not have the same luxurious feel or durability as animal fur.
The Conclusion
Versace’s decision to stop using real fur in its collections is a significant step towards more ethical and sustainable fashion practices. While there are still concerns about the environmental impact of alternative materials such as faux fur, this trend towards more conscious fashion choices reflects changing attitudes among consumers who want their purchases to reflect their values.
As consumers become more informed about the impact of their purchases on animals and the environment, it’s likely that we will see more luxury brands follow Versace’s lead and make the switch to more sustainable and ethical materials.