London Fashion Week (LFW) has announced a landmark ban on exotic animal skins [1], including crocodiles, alligators, snakes, and other wild animal leathers, from their runway collections. This move extends the ban on fur introduced last year. LFW is the first of the “big four” fashion weeks—alongside New York, Milan, and Paris—to implement such a policy. Following in the footsteps of Copenhagen Fashion Week, which banned exotic skins and feathers in March this year, London is taking a bold step towards sustainability.
David Leigh-Pemberton, Deputy Director for Policy and Engagement at the British Fashion Council (BFC), made the announcement this week in a speech to Parliament. He emphasized the importance of adopting more humane practices in the fashion industry. Leigh-Pemberton stated, “The ban is part of a wider package of standards introduced by the BFC’s Institute of Positive Fashion.” He also mentioned that the organization is currently consulting with the industry on its approach to feathers on the catwalk.
The ban, set to be implemented from 2025, aims to set a powerful example for other fashion events worldwide, reflecting changing consumer attitudes towards sustainability and ethical fashion. Brands wishing to appear on the LFW schedule will need to commit to not using either material in their collections. Burberry, the biggest brand on the schedule, had already stopped using exotic leathers in 2022.
This move is seen as a victory for animal rights activists. “Tens of thousands of PETA supporters contacted the BFC, calling for this progressive move,” said Yvonne Taylor, PETA’s VP of Corporate Projects. “We salute the compassionate British designers who helped usher in this policy.”
Over the last decade, many luxury fashion houses, including Dolce & Gabbana, Saint Laurent, and Valentino, have ditched fur. However, the conversation around exotic leathers is more complicated. Crocodile, snake, and lizard leathers are used to make some of the world’s most costly and coveted luxury goods, and they have higher profit margins than more common leather items. This ban represents a significant challenge for designers specializing in luxury leather goods.
Sources:
[1] London Fashion Week bans exotic skins
https://www.voguebusiness.com/story/fashion/london-fashion-week-bans-exotic-skins
