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London Fashion Week to Ban Exotic Animal Skins
London Fashion Week (LFW) has made history as the first of the “Big Four” fashion events [New York, London, Milan, and Paris] to ban exotic animal skins, such as crocodile and snake. This follows its December 2023 ban on fur, announced by the British Fashion Council (BFC).
David Leigh-Pemberton, the BFC’s deputy director for policy and engagement, declared this move during a recent speech to Parliament. He emphasized that brands wishing to appear on the official LFW schedule must commit to avoiding these materials.
This decision aligns with growing global efforts to create cruelty-free fashion. Earlier this year, Copenhagen Fashion Week implemented a similar ban, while Melbourne and Berlin Fashion Weeks have already moved in this direction. Emerging designers at LFW, many of whom avoid using leather, are leading the charge for sustainable and ethical practices.
However, exotic skins remain prevalent in luxury fashion. Iconic pieces like Pharrell Williams’ crocodile leather Louis Vuitton “Millionaire Speedy” bag highlight the ongoing demand for such materials by brands like Hermès, Kering, and LVMH.
Animal rights groups, such as PETA, have been pivotal in driving this change. PETA activists have disrupted runway shows and pressured the BFC to adopt more compassionate policies. “This is a win for wild animals, our shared planet, and us all,” said Collective Fashion Justice in a celebratory statement.
London Fashion Week’s bold decision signals a shift in the fashion industry, paving the way for a more ethical and sustainable future.
