Fashion labels Sandro, Maje and Claudie Pierlot have denounced the use of crocodiles, lizards, snakes and other reptilian leathers in their products.
According to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), SMCP Group – the French fashion group which operates the three ready-to-wear labels – has confirmed that they are stopping the sale of exotic leather articles.
“We praise this excellent decision by the SMCP group, indicative of a highly compassionate attitude, and we urge other labels to follow such a fine example,” said Mathilde Dorbessan, in charge of corporate relations for PETA.
Many leading fashion brands across the world have stopped using animal fur in their collections, starting with Chanel in 2018, followed by Victoria Beckham, Vivienne Westwood and Paul Smith, among others. More recently, luxury groups have also pledged to safeguard the well-being of animals.
Hermès and Kering are working with the breeding farms of the International Crocodilian Farmers Association (ICFA), whose standards define the best practices for animal well-being, working conditions and environmental protection.
In the last few years, PETA has carried out several surveys and investigations on animal cruelty, putting pressure on the fashion industry to stop using fur and exotic leathers.
Taking opportunity of this tough time for the industry during the COVID-19 pandemic, PETA also announced its acquisition of shares in around 20 new fashion businesses including Burberry and Ralph Lauren, a move that will allow the association to influence decisions related to abandoning certain materials in their products.
