Jean Paul Gaultier’s move to ban ‘absolutely deplorable’ fur sends ‘corks popping’ at animal rights group PETA

The “absolutely deplorable” methods used to kill animals prompted Jean Paul Gaultier to join the growing ranks of fashion designers to ban fur from their collections.

The enfant terrible of French couture announced the decision in a television interview, a move which was quickly welcomed by animal rights groups but equally slammed by French fur-makers.

“Fur is more sensual than fake fur, but you can find other ways of staying warm,” the 66-year-old Gaultier told Canal+.

Animal campaign group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) said that “corks are popping” at its headquarters after Gaultier’s announcement.

“This decision is a sign of the times,” PETA’s international director Mimi Bekhechi said.

“The vast majority of people want nothing to do with items that have come from animals who were caged and electrocuted or bludgeoned to death.”

Brands have come under increasing pressure from both animal rights groups and shoppers to stop using fur, and Gaultier’s move follows similar announcements from brands including Armani and Versace.

Ralph Lauren, Vivienne Westwood and Stella McCartney are also among designers now opting for fake fur or other alternatives.

France’s leading animal charity, The Society for the Protection of Animals (SPA), said it “hopes Jean Paul Gaultier’s example will be quickly followed by other couturiers and brands.”