Designer Galliano renounces use of real fur
The high fashion designer John Galliano is to no longer use real animal fur in his creations, after being convinced on the issue by animal welfare association PETA.
The artistic director of Paris fashion house Maison Margiela - and former head designer of Givenchy and Christian Dior - made the announcement in an interview with Elle magazine, published this week.
Galliano said he had changed his mind on the subject of fur after a long conversation with a People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) advocate.
He joins other high-profile names and brands to renounce the practice, including Gucci, Versace, Michael Kors, H&M, Zara, and Gap.
Isabelle Goetz, PETA France spokesperson, said: “Millions of animals are born into completely sordid conditions, to be torn up and killed in violent ways, simply to decorate a piece of clothing. In 2018, we are completely capable of dressing without fur, and creating attractive things without fur. Nobody buys fur coats anymore.”
Galliano’s decision has provoked backlash among fur supporters.
Pierre-Philippe Frieh, spokesperson for fur association la Fédération Française des Métiers de la Fourrure, said: “I think this is a strategic error [for Galliano], and he has made this announcement purely for effect, because fur was nearly non-existent in his designs anyway.
“We are not worried [by his move] because the amount we are talking is very relative - even weak - compared to other creators who continue to work with fur.”
The global fur market is estimated to be worth €35 billion, and employs more than a million people.
