Karl Lagerfeld is latest big name to ban fur

By

Sandra Halliday

Published
Dec 19, 2019

Another big name has just announced that its banning the use of fur in its products with the Karl Lagerfeld brand singing up to be fur-free. AM Retail Group, which operate’s Lagerfeld’s stores, as well as its US parent company G-III Apparel Group, will also stop using fur.

While the Lagerfeld name is the big headline-grabber here, the wider decision of AM Retail to go fur-free is also important, especially as it operates not only Karl Lagerfeld Paris stores, but chains including Wilsons Leather, GH Bass & Co, and Calvin Klein Performance.

The news itself came via anti-animal cruelty campaigning group Peta, which said the move reflects the views of today’s “ethical shoppers”. It added that “these fur bans are proof that the fashion industry is changing to meet the rising demand for luxury animal-friendly alternatives." 

The late Karl Lagerfeld used fur regularly in his collections but in recent years, the number of high-end labels rejecting fur has swelled. Top labels that have pivoted to become fur-free now include Burberry, Chanel, Prada, Gucci, Michael Kors, and Versace.

Recently, French firm SMCP also said its premium Sandro, Maje and Claudie Pierlot brands would stop selling fur.

The moves come as both consumers and fashion/retail company staffers prove themselves to be increasingly anti-fur and as alternative ‘vegan’ fur options improve. Legislation is also being used more widely and this year, California has banned the sale and manufacture of new fur products in the state.