NEW YORK • The fur flew at a Michael Kors show on Wednesday when protesters briefly disrupted the event at which the American fashion mogul discussed his career, dressing United States First Lady Melania Trump and shutting stores.

"Michael Kors has blood on his hands," chanted the more than dozen protesters who marched through a darkened auditorium at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

An audio recording of an animal squealing marked the start of a four-minute protest about 13 minutes into the conversation with Kors that was streamed on Facebook.

"Shame on all of you for supporting this industry," yelled one man as the audience sat looking bemused and museum staff tried to escort protesters out as quickly as possible.

Once the protest was over, Kors returned to the stage. Known for his laidback, luxurious and quintessentially American silhouette, he started his label in 1981 and has dressed celebrities. Among them is Mrs Trump, who wore a tailored Kors dress to greet Panama's President and First Lady on Monday.

While some designers have refused to dress her in opposition to her husband's politics, Kors said "she's been a client for so long" and that "she looks great".

But while he sits atop a global handbag and apparel empire, the company has said it will close 100 to 125 stores as e-commerce grabs more market share.

AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE