Luxury fashion brands Alexander McQueen and Balenciaga, which are both part of the Kering group, have officially declared their fur-free policies in a recent announcement by the Humane Society International/UK (HSI). The decision comes at a time when the UK government is contemplating the possibility of banning fur sales, which would make it the first country to do so after leaving the EU’s single market. McQueen and Balenciaga now join a growing list of prestigious fashion labels that have made the ethical choice to eliminate fur from their collections. This list includes renowned names such as Prada, Gucci, Armani, Versace, Michael Kors, Jimmy Choo, DKNY, Burberry, and Chanel.
The confirmation from McQueen and Balenciaga was made in Kering’s 2020 Universal Registration Document, which showcases the progress made by its various brands towards eliminating fur. HSI has been working closely with Kering and its brands for over a decade as part of the #FurFreeBritain campaign. It has been revealed that almost 80% of people in the UK associate fur-using brands with negative terms such as “cruel,” “outdated,” “unethical,” or “out of touch.” Kering has a solid track record of banning fur within its labels, with Bottega Veneta abstaining from its use for nearly 20 years, and Gucci making its fur-free commitment in 2017. However, Kering’s Saint Laurent and Brioni brands have yet to establish fur-free policies.
The fur-free movement has gained significant momentum in recent years as consumers become more concerned about animal welfare and the environmental impact of the fur industry. Luxury brands are increasingly recognizing the need to align their practices with these shifting consumer sentiments. By eliminating fur from their collections, these brands not only take a compassionate stand but also enhance their brand image and appeal to a wider demographic of ethically conscious consumers.
Although McQueen and Balenciaga’s commitment to a fur-free policy is commendable, there is still progress to be made within the Kering group as a whole. It is encouraging to see the fashion industry moving in a more ethical and sustainable direction, and we hope that Kering’s Saint Laurent and Brioni will follow suit in the near future.
Useful links:
1. HSI – Luxury Brands Confirmed Fur-free Policies
2. The Independent – Luxury Fashion Brands Shunning Fur
