For Immediate Release:
October 29, 2024
Contact:
Matthew Klein
332-251-7540
[email protected]
CAFT USA Uncovers Illegal Fur Sales by Designer Alexander Wang
Costa Mesa, CA – October 29, 2024 – The Coalition to Abolish the Fur Trade (CAFT USA) has uncovered alarming evidence of fashion designer Alexander Wang’s violation of California’s fur ban, which went into effect on January 1, 2023. A recent video taken at Wang’s Costa Mesa location shows the sale of the “Jay Flatform Sandal,” featuring black rabbit fur straps, in clear contravention of the state law prohibiting the sale of new fur products. (Pictures and video here.)
California’s AB 44 legislation makes it unlawful to sell, trade, or distribute new fur products, reflecting a commitment to animal welfare and establishing a precedent for fur-free fashion in the state.
Matthew Klein, Executive Director of CAFT USA, stated, “Alexander Wang’s actions not only flout the law but also disregard the ethical responsibility that consumers expect from modern brands. People deserve transparency from the companies they support, and continuing to sell fur is a betrayal of that trust.”
The Jay Flatform Sandal is made with rabbit fur from the species Lepus brachyurus. They are currently sold online and in stores for $695.
Wang is no stranger to controversy; multiple sexual assault allegations against him over the years raise questions about his accountability. This ongoing pattern of ethical lapses further highlights the need for scrutiny of his business practices
Former federal prosecutor Bonnie Klapper has contacted California Department of Fish and Wildlife to alert them of Wang’s violation of the law. Klapper stated, “By passing the ban on fur, Californians demonstrated their commitment to compassion. It is critical for the fashion industry to comply with legal standards that safeguard animal welfare. But without aggressive enforcement on the part of state authorities, other inhumane designers will be emboldened to disregard the law. I urge the authorities to act decisively.”
CAFT USA encourages consumers to rethink their purchasing decisions and support brands committed to fur-free practices. Klein added, “Rabbits on fur farms face horrific conditions, confined in cramped cages and suffering from extreme stress and neglect until they are ultimately killed. We will not stand by while any designer profits from the cruel fur trade at the expense of animal welfare.”
For more information or inquiries, please contact Matthew Klein at [email protected].
The authorities in California have been notified of the violation of the fur ban. (This letter is attached to this email for your review.)
###