As consumers are becoming increasingly ethical in their spending habits, brands are moving in the same direction, too. And the use of exotic skins has been a point of focus in recent seasons. Even Victoria Beckham is banning the use of exotic skins from her collections moving forward – as is Chanel and Vivienne Westwood.
And being that we are in the height of fashion month, brands are being extra vigilant with all the watchful eyes upon them. Just look at Burberry: following a product scandal, the luxury fashion house is introducing a diversity council.
So now, British department store, Selfridges, has added exotic skins to its list of ‘must bans’ – with the intention of phasing out products made of python, lizard, crocodile skin and python, and only selling leather from agricultural livestock by 2020.
Selfridges’ buying director Sebastian Manes said, “We are dedicated to being at the very forefront of future-thinking retail. For us, that’s a future where luxury is defined by craftsmanship and material innovation.”
In light of this bold and necessary move, we’re sure this is putting pressure on other brands to join the ‘fashion without feeling guilty’ movement. Let’s wait and see which brand will be championing sustainability in a big way soon…
Next up, find out about bad girl Riri’s new luxe label – which is definitely happening.
