Paul Smith announces it will no longer use kangaroo leather

In the wake of the Australian bushfires 
It's one of this season's hottest trends, but leather in the luxury industry often has a darker side
IMAXtree
Naomi May30 January 2020

Iconic British fashion label Paul Smith has announced a ban on exotic skins in all of its future collections.

The ban includes "K-leather", which is leather made from kangaroo skin. When it comes to skins, kangaroo is the lightest offered, meaning its often been the go-to for luxury brands' leather goods.

The leather is especially common in the manufacturing of trainers in the sportswear industry. Adidas confirmed last year that it still uses K-leather in its designs.

Official statistics from the Australian government show that just under 1.5 million kangaroos and wallabies were killed commercially in 2017.

Leather in Versace's autumn/ winter 2019/2020 collection
IMAXtree

Paul Smith's announcement follows a similar pledge from Versace last week, in which the Italian fashion house confirmed that it will no longer use kangaroo skins in its designs.

One billion animals are now estimated to have died in Australia's wildfires, which is thought to have been the inspiration behind the move from the brands.

"Behind every accessory made with kangaroo, python, or alligator skin is an animal who did not want to die," said Yvonne Taylor, PETA's Director of Corporate Projects.

The fashion industry is slowly pivoting towards more sustainable alternatives, with the doyenne of all things green, Stella McCartney leading the way. She has previously collaborated with companies Mylo™, who specialise in mushroom leather, and Piñatex, which has created leather from pineapple leaves.

Other big names who have committed to a ban on fur include Gucci, Michael Kors, Burberry and Chanel.

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