Fashion is no stranger to controversy, whether it’s a lack of diversity, use of real fur, or the promotion of an unhealthy body weight. However, it seems that it’s open to progression and a change for the better.
Topshop, Whistles, Warehouse, Oasis, and Primark are among some of the high street retailers who have committed to banning the use of down feathers after an exposé by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).
Shocking and disturbing footage filmed in China, where 80% of the world’s down feathers originate, showed birds being plucked aggressively causing outrage with animal rights campaigners and consumers alike.
Yvonne Taylor, PETA’s senior manager of corporate projects, commented: “PETA will continue to work with retailers across the UK to ditch feathers in favour of natural or high-tech synthetic fillers that are hypoallergenic, warm, eco-friendly and infinitely kinder to birds”.
Other brands that have promised to go “down-free” are ASOS, Hobbs, Boohoo and Miss Selfridge.
#Peace.Love.PETA
