In news that will disappoint Kanye West and thrill PETA, the Armani Group has decided to cease using animal fur in its products, including pieces from Giorgio Armani, Emporio Armani, Armani Privé, AJ Armani Jeans, AX | Armani Exchange and home brand Armani Casa. The Italian fashion house released a statement announcing that all its garments will be fur-free starting with Fall 2016.
Thanks to technological advances, it’s no longer necessary to use animal fur, Giorgio Armani reveals. “Technological progress made over the years allows us to have valid alternatives at our disposition that render the use of cruel practices unnecessary as regards animals,” the designer said in a statement. “Pursuing the positive process undertaken long ago, my company is now taking a major step ahead, reflecting our attention to the critical issues of protecting and caring for the environment and animals.”
Armani joins a small but growing group of designers who have sworn off the use of fur including Hugo Boss, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger and Ralph Lauren. Hopefully, Armani’s pledge inspires change across the fashion industry.