Italian Fashion Brand Moncler Going Fur-Free

Moncler is the latest luxury fashion brand to go fur-free.

Now headquartered in Italy (although it was founded in the 1950s in Monestier-de-Clermont, France), Moncler has long been associated with top-quality skiwear. Its outerwear options have predominantly featured down insulation and fur trimming, but now the brand says it is moving away from the latter. Its Winter/Fall 2023 collection will be its last to include fur.

The decision was made in collaboration with LAV, an Italian animal rights organization that the brand claims to have a long-term relationship with. The decision does not extend to Moncler’s use of down.

The world shifts away from fur

Moncler’s announcement follows recent news that Italy is planning to ban fur farming nationwide. At the end of last year, the Senate voted to approve an amendment to an existing budget law that would permanently ban the farming of foxes, mink, chinchillas, and raccoon dogs in the country.

Hungary, France, and the Netherlands have also passed fur bans in some capacity in the last few years. COVID-19 mutations on mink farms and animal rights concerns were key factors behind legislation.

“Italy’s vote recognizes that allowing the mass breeding of wild animals for frivolous fur fashion represents a risk to both animals and people that can’t be justified by the limited economic benefits it offers to a small minority of people involved in this cruel industry,” said Martina Pluda, the Humane Society International’s director for Italy, back in December.  

Sustainable fur-free fashion

The news of Moncler’s fur-free announcement comes alongside another announcement from the brand: the launch of its “Born to Protect” collection. According to a press release, the new range reflects the brand’s “dedication to protecting the planet and creating a better future for all.”

While the new range includes recycled nylon, recycled polyester, and organic cotton, it also uses wool and down. Moncler says the latter materials are sourced “according to specific sustainability standards.” But many animal rights activists are skeptical that ethical down exists. 

Moncler says that its down is a by-product of the food industry, but meat farming is also linked with significant ethical and environmental problems. It’s estimated that livestock contributes 14.5 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

But ditching fur is an important step toward a more ethical fashion industry, and Moncler is in good company. Last year, YSL, Brioni, Oscar de la Renta, and Canada Goose were among many luxury brands to also confirm new fur-free policies.