As fashion weeks continue to take place around the world, they provide a platform not only for showcasing the latest trends, but also for activists to amplify their voices. One such incident occurred recently at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, where designer Michael Kors was scheduled to give a live conference on his Facebook account.
The conference, however, was interrupted by a group of anti-fur activists who were adamant about shedding light on the mistreatment of animals in the fashion industry. With a clear message in favor of animal rights, the protesters made their presence known by chanting, “Michael Kors has blood on his hands. Shame on all of you for supporting this industry,” directly addressing the audience attending the conference.
This incident comes at a challenging time for Michael Kors, as he is already facing economic difficulties. The renowned American designer has been criticized for his decision to dress Melania Trump, and the rise of e-commerce has adversely affected his revenue. In fact, his fourth-quarter revenue saw a decline of 11.2% to $1.06 billion.
Given the sensitivity surrounding animal rights, it begs the question of whether Kors should consider forsaking fur in his designs. The new generation of consumers, known as millennials, places a great emphasis on sustainability and ethical practices. By embracing responsible designs, Kors may be able to revitalize his business and adapt to the changing demands of the fashion world.
In conclusion, Michael Kors finds himself at a crucial crossroad in his fashion career. The disruption during his conference serves as a reminder that the fashion industry is not immune to scrutiny, especially when it comes to ethical concerns. The decision to give up fur could potentially attract a new generation of consumers, eager to support responsible and sustainable fashion choices. Only time will tell whether Michael Kors will reinvent himself and navigate these challenging waters successfully.
Useful links:
1. PETA – Fur Industry
2. Business of Fashion – Millennial Consumers
