Rick Owens Bans Fur After Pressure from Protesters
“Fashion leaders can either evolve or fall behind.”
In recent years, we have seen a major decline in the number of brands selling real fur, including conglomerates such as LVMH and Kering, as well as luxury powerhouses like Chanel and Burberry. But there are still a select few who remain behind the times, producing clothing and accessories with the plush additions. This dated approach is not being let slide, though.
The Coalition to Abolish the Fur Trade (CAFT) has long been pressuring brands through protests, campaigning for an end to the use of any animal fur. In its latest move, the organization staged a targeted five-day protest that led to Rick Owens and Owenscorp committing to not using fur in any future collections. The brand also removed mink and beaver fur handbags from its online store.
The fur-free policy was confirmed in an email sent to CAFT by Owenscorp’s Corporate Social Responsibility team, alongside a new statement added to the website’s “Eco Aware” page. The statement reads, “Over the past decade, we reduced and eventually ceased the production of fur. We will not engage in fur production in the future.”
The new commitment follows CAFT’s campaign launch on December 10, with protests following in London, Los Angeles and New York, where activists confronted Owenscorp CEO Daniela Soto Beltran. Supporters of the campaign also confronted Rick Owens’ longtime collaborator, designer and muse Tyrone Dylan at an airport lounge ahead of his flight to Paris.
“Fashion leaders can either evolve or fall behind,” said Suzie Stork, Executive Director of CAFT. “Rick Owens chose to evolve. We expect others who still profit from the cruel fur trade to take notice.”
While this is a significant step for the industry, there is still a long way to go with fashion heavyweights like FENDI, Dior and Hermès still using real fur. Hopefully, Rick Owens’ latest move will encourage other brands to follow suit.
In other news, check out our list of top fashion brands and moments from 2025.
