Fur And Fashion – A Topical Subject

By Natalie Peach

Fur use in the fashion industry is a topical subject with everyone having their own view on it. Our ancestors used fur in garments for thousands of years so why are animal activists and general public alike kicking up a fuss about it being used in the fashion industry today? This opinion based article will look at this subject which has been a topic of interest for many years.

But it’s functionality purpose is to keep you warm, so what is all the fuss about?
Yes it is true that animal fur is a good material to stay warm and protected, but with technological advances humans can come up with better, more sustainable ways of staying warm. For those that like the glamorous fur coat, faux fur is a good alternative and has been recommended by many stylists. It is debatable whether the animals that are hunted are killed in an ethical manner. Those that hunt for an income, would defend their practices stating the overpopulation of some animals is causing an in balance in the ecosystem, which is why a cull is necessary. Seal hunting in Canada is an example where hunters have used this excuse based on questionable research whilst using controversial methods of killing the animal. If the trend of animal fur and unethical practices continue, this may push animals onto the endangered or extinction list, which is not a reassuring thought.

Why is fur used in clothing today?
With its original purpose used for functional reasons to keep people warm, the beauty of animal fur has moved on to more aesthetic and decorative purposes. Depending on the animal, the price of fur varies but due to its manual time consuming labour, the cost is quite high. Therefore in this day and age, it is more often than not a symbol of glamour and wealth. With prominent celebrities and designers flaunting the material, it can pose as a problem as they are considered role models and gate keepers of fashion trends. Of course, if the trend becomes more popular, the demand for animal fur rises and will mean more unsustainable and cruel ways for hunters to kill animals for their coats.

But leather is still a material used in fashion but there is no wrong in that?
Trying not to put my personal spin on things, it is true that there is not so much awareness on materials used in fashion which also involve killing an animal. Some dedicated vegans and animal activists will not wear leather or wool, which I respect. Everyone has their own opinion on animals being used for garments. Most people who wear leather do so because they do not not have a problem with animals that are killed humanely and are not endangered or cultivated for their hide, such as cows. It is the questionable practices of hunting animals which are at risk of being endangered for purely aesthetic purposes which is questioned by many.

So despite animal fur being used for thousands of years as a form of clothing and protection, the rise of consumer culture has turned this necessity into an unsustainable sign of wealth. Everyone has their own strong opinions, which is why this debate is topical, but with technological advances, supporters against the use of animal fur have suggested that faux fur be used as a substitute.

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