As people become more conscious of the origins of their clothing and accessories, they’re increasingly turning away from products made with animal skins. Now, animal rights organization PETA is calling on two fashion powerhouses, LVMH and Hermès, to join the trend and stop using exotic animal skins in their collections.
1. PETA’s Shocking Demands for Luxury Brands
A Change in the Luxury Scene?
PETA has long been vocal about the ethical implications of apparel production and luxury brands have been their primary target. Recently, PETA has stepped up their demands, calling for an end to the use of leather, fur, and wool. They have also requested a move towards more sustainable practices that do not sacrifice animal welfare in the process.
This request from a prominent animal rights activist organization has stirred up a flurry of discussion and debate. With a weighty ultimatum being issued, luxury brands are feeling the pressure and are being forced to reassess the ongoing practices of material and resource procurement. While much of the industry remains devoted to animal-derived materials, there is an increasing trend towards intentional sustainability and efforts to eliminate inhumane and polluting practices. How exactly luxury brands will respond to these mounting demands is yet to be seen.
2. Exotic Skins: Where Will the Debate End?
The use of exotic materials in the fashion and luxury goods industries has been a contentious issue for decades, and the debate shows no sign of ending any time soon. A huge variety of endangered species – such as alligators, zebras and ostriches – are used every year to make items such as handbags, wallets and shoes. But why is such a practice so popular?
The main reason luxury fashion brands are drawn to the use of exotic skins is simply the aesthetics; these products look good, and they often sell for a premium price. That said, the demand for these items is sometimes driven by symbolism – many people see them as a sign of wealth and success. Unfortunately though, it’s the animals who are paying the ultimate price.
- Animal advocacy groups in particular have raised a number of ethical concerns about the use of exotic skins, including that the fundamental rights of animals are being contravened by subjecting them to cruel and inhumane treatment.
- Conservationists argue the trade of these materials contributes to the depletion of endangered species, and the destruction of their natural habitats.
As such, the debate over the use of exotic skins continues to rage, with very little sign of a resolution in sight. It’s certain that more and more people are taking a stance against the use of such materials, and it may only be a matter of time before the industry is forced to reassess its use of exotics in favor of more ethical alternatives, such as faux leather.
3. LVMH, Hermès Face Renewed Pressure from PETA
With the rise of sustainable movements, luxury brands are now facing the brunt of pressure from activist groups. PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) has been campaigning against luxury market giants LVMH and Hermès for violative animal testing and disregarding animal welfare standards. With mounting public outrage, these two companies have been forced to take notice.
PETA has pushed for strict enforcement of animal testing guidelines for LVMH and Hermès. Recent campaigns have highlighted leather production as the main area of focus, given the barbaric methods used to procure leather hides. Further causing ripples with their groundbreaking campaigns against both companies, the activist group has called for their commitment to:
- switching to faux leather;
- adopting humane slaughtering processes;
- ensuring living conditions are humane; and
- broad reforms of testing protocols
The pressure is now mounting on the luxury industry to make meaningful changes in their animal-sourced production practices. The success of the campaigns by the likes of PETA is a testament to the growing intolerance for animal cruelty, and the shift in the attitude towards sustainability. It remains to be seen if luxury brands, such as LVMH and Hermès, take heed of the warnings and take their environmental and animal welfare responsibilities seriously.
4. Striking a Balance Between Luxury and Ethics
Escaping into the lap of luxury is a heavenly thought, but how do we ensure that the choices we make in life remain ethical? The answer to this question lies in striking a delicate balance between indulgence and morality.
For example, while it’s difficult to turn down a much-needed spa day, it’s important to choose the right wellness centre. Research into its environmental impact, sustainability policies and welfare of its employees will go a long way. Making smart consumer choices should be the new luxury.
- Opt for a spa that has eco-friendly practices
- Read up on brands that pay their employees fair wages
- Shop locally to benefit your local economy
- Ask questions to vendors about their ethical standards
You’ll be making a statement about choosing the high road when you invest in an ethical luxury. The pursuit of the finer things in life shouldn’t come at the expense of your soul. There is a way to do both, and it’s all about understanding your impact on the planet and its people. As the use of exotic animal skins continues to draw more attention, animal rights activists, companies and customers alike are keeping watch for potential changes in the fashion industry. Although luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Hermès and LVMH have yet to officially comment on this matter, their decisions on the future of exotic skins sourcing could bring meaningful progress to animal rights worldwide.
