Carmen Geiss recently made headlines for posing in a pink fur bolero at the Butterfly Ball in Monaco. The photo received over 18,000 likes and 350 comments on social media. While many fans praised her glamorous look, others criticized her choice of fur, as well as her decision to drink alcohol despite publicly stating she would abstain after a pancreatic illness.
One of the critics, Zürich-based society lady Vera Dillier, who is a fan of fur herself, expressed her disapproval of Geiss’ fur choice. Dillier, who owns around 30 fur pieces and believes in the sustainability and longevity of fur, described Geiss’ fur as cheap and inappropriate for the season. She emphasized the importance of buying fur from well-treated animals and criticized Geiss for not following the seasonal fur-wearing etiquette.
The debate around wearing fur is polarizing, with some advocating for its environmental benefits and others condemning it for animal cruelty. Peta, a leading animal rights organization, firmly opposes the use of fur in fashion and encourages the use of faux fur alternatives. They stress that modern fashion offers a wide range of stylish faux fur options that are cruelty-free and indistinguishable from real fur.
In light of the controversy, animal welfare organizations like Vier Pfoten Schweiz are calling on Carmen Geiss to show more empathy towards animals and opt for animal-friendly fashion choices in the future. The Swiss government is also considering banning the import and sale of fur products obtained through cruel practices, with a decision expected to be made by the Parliament by summer 2025.
The debate surrounding fur fashion is complex, with arguments on both sides regarding sustainability, ethics, and personal choice. As consumers, it’s important to consider the impact of our fashion choices on animals and the environment and make informed decisions that align with our values. Whether it’s opting for faux fur, vintage fur, or other sustainable alternatives, there are plenty of stylish options available that don’t compromise on style or ethics.