This week, local model Ruby Jean Wilson caused quite a stir when she walked off the set of a shoot after discovering that most pieces she was about to wear were made from real fur. 

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Sydney model Ruby Jean Wilson is a staunch animal rights activist
Credit: Instagram @rubyjean_wilson

In late October, Perth-born Kym Ellery pledged that her eponymous label would no longer use animal fur as of mid-2017 – presumably due to the heat she was receiving from animal rights organisation PETA for constantly using fur throughout most of her collections. 

On Monday this week, Wilson took to Facebook to explain why she did what she did, and urged the Australian fashion industry to ban together for animal rights and cease the use of fur in garments.

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Kym Ellery will not be using fur in her collections as of mid-2017

“I decided that it wasn’t something I wanted to be a part of,” she simply stated. “As anxious as I felt making this decision, it feels better to have stood against something that I disagree with and believe is outdated and unnecessary than to have stayed for financial gain. I just think taking small steps to stand up for what’s right are all that’s’ ever made change, and I think it’s important we do that.”  

The in-demand model and the eminent designer are just two big names to have said no to fur. Over 100 of Australia’s fashion greats have brought faux fur into their collections. Two include: 

Stolen Girlfriends Club 
Extremely popular with those who have a rebellious side – and who look to the ’70s punk era for outfit inspo – this Australian label has said no to using fur. Founded in 2005, it opts to use faux fur in the label’s statement coats and jackets. 

stolengirlfriendsclubforwebStolen Girlfriends Club, Martha S Manic Coat, $655. SHOP NOW

Collette Dinnigan
The extremely successful Australian designer refuses to use real fur. Her ever-popular, sold-out leopard print coat is made of faux fur.

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Collette Dinnigan’s faux fur leopard print coat has been so popular, it’s sold out

For a full list of Australian designers who are against using fur, visit www.peta.org.au