Marc Jacobs Stands Up Against Accusations of Using Real Animal Fur: A Defiant Response

Marc Jacobs Addresses Bullies Who Accused His Brand of Using Real Animal Fur I Cannot Sit Back

Marc Jacobs Arturo Holmes/Getty Images for NYFW: The Shows

Marc Jacobs recently spoke out about an incident he found unfair in New York City. The fashion designer, who is 61 years old, posted on Instagram on Sunday, June 2nd. He was upset about protestors acting aggressively towards his publicist, Michael Ariano. Videos circulated online showing a group of people following Ariano and accusing the fashion brand of using real animal fur.

Jacobs addressed the bullies in a heartfelt social media post, acknowledging their hate, anger, and pain. He emphasized his respect for everyone's 1st Amendment rights, including theirs. However, he expressed his concern over the unjust and hostile attacks on innocent people at Marc Jacobs.

Reflecting on his past experiences, Jacobs admitted to giving in to bullies during his youth. Despite his aversion to succumbing to them, he found himself in a difficult situation with a radical organization (which he chose not to name). This organization, claiming to advocate for animal welfare, was actually jeopardizing the well-being of innocent individuals and communities, forcing Jacobs to confront the reality of giving in to a bully.

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Jacobs clarified that his label has not used fur since 2018. He mentioned making a statement to WWD on April 26, 2018, expressing his stance on fur. Back then, he emphasized the importance of being sensitive to issues that people care about in the current world of fashion. It was also highlighted that during his fall show in the same year, only fake fur was showcased.

In a recent social media post on Sunday, Jacobs reflected on his choice to collaborate using up-cycled fur for a 2022 project. He acknowledged that whether this decision was a mistake or not is open to interpretation. Jacobs shared that he always strives to listen, speak his truth, and take responsibility for his actions.

He reassured, "Despite the threats of violence from this group towards Marc Jacobs, I will continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of my colleagues. I do not support their actions, but I will always strive to protect and respect those around me."

He made it clear, "I want to emphasize that Marc Jacobs does not support the use of fur in any way. We have not used fur in the past, we do not use fur now, and we will not use fur in the future."

Last week, a video was posted on Instagram by the Animal Activism Mentorship showing Jacobs' publicist leaving a gym. As he exited, a group of people surrounded him with posters and shouting.

According to the caption, the protesters stated that no high-ranking employee or associate of Marc Jacobs will be spared from demonstrations until Marc publicly promises to stop using real animal fur.

Editor's P/S:

Marc Jacobs's experience highlights the growing tension between animal rights activism and the fashion industry. While animal activists are rightfully concerned about the ethical treatment of animals, their tactics are sometimes