Marc Jacobs ends use of reptile and ostrich
Marc Jacobs has decided to cease using skins from crocodiles, lizards, ostriches, snakes, and other wildlife in its fashion collections.
Marc Jacobs has decided to cease using skins from crocodiles, lizards, ostriches, snakes, and other wildlife in its fashion collections. The news comes after a growing list of top designers and retailers—including Burberry, Chanel, Carolina Herrera, Diane von Furstenberg, Jean Paul Gaultier, Karl Lagerfeld, Nordstrom, Stella McCartney, Victoria Beckham, and Vivienne Westwood— have taken steps to ban exotic skins from their product lines, reflecting a growing industry-wide shift towards more humane and sustainable practices.
The decision by Marc Jacobs comes amidst increasing scrutiny over the treatment of animals within the fashion industry. Investigations and reports have highlighted the cruel conditions and brutal methods involved in the procurement of exotic skins, sparking public outrage and demanding change.
“Behind every ostrich- or reptile-skin handbag was an individual who endured a life of misery, pain, and filth before being hacked to bits,” says PETA Director of Corporate Responsibility Laura Shields. “PETA applauds Marc Jacobs’ compassionate decision to cut ties with this cruel industry and urges designers everywhere to follow its lead.”
Animals, including crocodiles, snakes, and ostriches, often endure short lives filled with suffering, only to be killed for their skins. The production processes associated with fur and exotic skins have been criticized for their harmful environmental impacts. These include contributing to climate change, land devastation, pollution, and water contamination, further underscoring the urgent need for the fashion industry to adopt more sustainable and cruelty-free alternatives.
Recognizing these issues, several luxury brands have already committed to stop using exotic animal skins. Chanel and Burberry, for example, no longer sell products made from reptile skins, while department stores like Nordstrom and Selfridges have ceased carrying such items.
Marc Jacobs' decision to halt the use of reptile and ostrich skins represents a significant victory for animal rights. It sets a positive example for the rest of the fashion industry. It demonstrates a commitment to ethical business practices and recognizing the dignity of all beings, aligning with broader efforts to ensure more humane and sustainable fashion production.
