The Five Luxury Designer Brands Still Using Animal Skin

In a world where fashion can be both innovative and ethical, it’s disheartening to see some high-end brands still contributing to animal cruelty. PETA’s December 2023 post highlights certain luxury brands’ continued use of animal leather, shedding light on the harsh realities behind what is often misrepresented as “luxury.” This article aims to spread awareness and encourage consumers to make compassionate choices before purchasing leather products.

The term “luxury leather” is often used to describe high-end fashion items, but the reality behind these products is far from glamorous. The leather industry involves the exploitation and suffering of countless animals, including cows, calves, ostriches, alligators, and more. Each of these creatures experiences pain and fear before their skin is turned into accessories or apparel. Understanding this, it’s crucial to reconsider what constitutes luxury and to reject the notion that such cruelty can be justified for fashion.

Luxury Brands to Avoid

1. Christian Louboutin: Renowned for its iconic red-soled shoes, Christian Louboutin relies on calfskin, often sourced from calves who are skinned while still conscious. These practices are abhorrent and contradict the principles of compassion and ethics. Instead of supporting brands that harm animals, opt for vegan luxury shoes that offer cruelty-free styles.

2. Gucci: Gucci’s GG Marmont bags and other leather products are made from calfskin, which involves the suffering and death of gentle animals. Furthermore, Gucci has been linked to the use of exotic skins from animals subjected to brutal treatment. Embrace alternatives like vegan handbags, which can be just as fashionable and cruelty-free.

3. Hermès: The iconic Birkin bag may be known for its quality, but the leather used is far from natural. Hermès’s use of cowhide, ostrich, alligator, and crocodile skins contributes to the unnecessary slaughter of animals. The brand’s practices have been repeatedly criticized, and it’s time to turn to brands that prioritize animal welfare and sustainability.

4. Louis Vuitton: Louis Vuitton’s Speedy handbags and other leather goods are made from cowhide, leading to the deaths of countless animals. Investigations have also revealed the brand’s involvement in the use of exotic skins. To support ethical fashion, choose products from brands that do not engage in animal exploitation.

5. Prada: Despite banning fur in 2019, Prada continues to use calfskin and ostrich skin in its products. The cruelty involved in procuring these materials is unacceptable. Vegan alternatives are readily available and offer a cruelty-free option for those who wish to support ethical fashion.

The Ethical Choice

Choosing to avoid leather products is not just about personal preference—it’s about making a statement against animal cruelty. The leather industry is responsible for severe environmental damage, including water pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. By opting for vegan and sustainable fashion, you contribute to a more compassionate world and reduce the ecological footprint of your wardrobe.

PETA’s ongoing campaigns highlight the need for brands to move away from animal skin and embrace alternatives. As consumers, we have the power to influence change by making ethical choices and supporting brands that align with our values.

Take Action

Reject animal skin and opt for vegan clothing and accessories. By doing so, you not only make a compassionate choice but also support the growing movement towards ethical fashion. Let’s work together to ensure that luxury truly means respect for all living beings.

For more information and to take action, visit PETA’s website and join the movement for a cruelty-free future.