6.4K Views 1 year ago

10 Times Live Animals Were Used in Runway Shows

While fashion is often considered an art form, it can sometimes cross the line when it comes to exploiting animals for entertainment or luxury purposes. From holding live animals as accessories on the runway to using them as props in the background to using animal products to create clothing, the fashion industry has had its fair share of controversies regarding animal exploitation. In this article, we will look at 10 instances where live animals were used in runway fashion shows.

1. Stella McCartney Winter 2023

Starting on a good note, Stella McCartney brought live horses onto the runway to promote leather-free fashion and her new eco-conscious materials. While her message is strong it is still important to note that the use of animals in fashion shows is not always beneficial for them.

Source: The Times and The Sunday Times/YouTube

2. Alexander McQueen Fall 2002

One year, models were seen walking down the runway with huskies on leashes. During the runway, the dogs were visibly uncomfortable which did not sit right with animal rights activists.

3. Gucci 2023

Models walked down the runway with live bunnies nestled in their hands, to celebrate the year of the rabbit. From the images, you can see that the bunnies do not look comfortable.

Source: GUCCI/YouTube

4. Jacquemus Spring/Summer 2016

During the dark and moody fashion show, Simon Porte Jacquemus walked down the runway himself leading a white horse.

Source: Modni Dny/YouTube

5. Tod’s Fall 2018

Models, including Gigi Hadid, walked down the runway donning Tod’s fashion designs and tiny puppies at Milan Fashion Week.

6. Moncler Winter 2020

Live dogs were groomed on stage during Milan Fashion Week of 2020. The ready-to-wear collection also featured clothing for the dogs.

7. Moncler Fall 2011

This fashion show featured live puppies both on leashes on in the models’ hands. The dogs were used merely as accessories.

8. Trussardi

Fashion designer Trussardi sent models down the runway with dogs on leashes.

9. Chanel Spring/Summer 2022

In this fashion show, Chanel’s live show included horses. The opening of the show featured the granddaughter of Grace Kelly trotting in on a horse. While she is a trained equestrian, many accused Chanel of animal cruelty.

Source: CHANEL/YouTube

10. Coach Fall/Winter 2022

The fashion show in February of 2022 featured models toting live dogs down the runway on leashes.

The exploitation of live animals in the fashion industry is a serious concern and has led to uproar from animal welfare advocates. While the use of live animals in fashion shows has decreased in recent years due to mounting pressures, there are still instances where animals end up being used as props or accessories. As consumers, we must ensure that the fashion industry is continuously held accountable for its actions and that animal exploitation is addressed in a meaningful way that promotes compassion and ethics above all else!

Sign this petition to stop fashion houses from using fur in their garments.