Published October 5, 2016 by PETA . Last Updated June 18, 2019.

Stella McCartney’s recent Paris fashion show had the models dancing down the runway, but backstage, the designer and PETA Vice President Dan Mathews were serious about explaining to fashion editors and stylists why she uses vegan Ultrasuede instead of leather.

The spring 2017 show comes on the heels of McCartney’s recent report on the much smaller environmental impact of clothing made from non-animal skins. McCartney explains, “Fashion is an industry that makes a significant impact on the planet. It’s not just cool clothes and trends. … Every single day, myself and my entire team are challenging ourselves and the industry: what [can we] do better?”

She describes the new collection as follows: “Eco-friendly smooth ultra-suede in a signature all-in-one and trousers echo the feeling of freedom in tan colours, while keeping the brand’s innovative cruelty free philosophy.”

Some pieces shown in Paris were emblazoned with the words “Animal-Free” and “All Is Love.”

© Kamil Szkopik

McCartney with PETA’s Dan Mathews

We couldn’t be more thrilled that McCartney has incorporated ultra-suede into her collections and continues to stand up for animals every day through her work. We know that her inspiring ethos is influencing other designers to do the same.

To learn more about wearing vegan, visit our How to Wear Vegan feature.

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