Q&A: Marc Bouwer's Cruelty-Free Fashion
The daring designer shows fur-free looks for the Humane Society of the US’ H Couture Fashion Show.
September 20, 2012
Haute couture has gone cruelty-free thanks to designers like Marc Bouwer, John Bartlett, and Charlotte Ronson, who will all show fur-free designs at the Humane Society of the US’ H Couture Fashion Show September 22 (7 PM). The event, hosted by Vampire Diaries stars Paul Wesley and Torrey DeVitto, will feature a cocktail reception, silent auction, and of course, the headline fashion show, demonstrating the very best in conscious living.
We caught up with one of the event’s spotlight designers, Marc Bouwer, to find out more about his collection and participation in the runway show. Bouwer, a favorite of Hollywood starlets, is as well known for his head-turning red-carpet looks (like Brenda Strong's from the Creative Arts Emmy’s) as he is for his humanitarian efforts. After making fashion history in 2002 by presenting a women’s wear collection completely free of animal products, Marc has continued on to earn several honors including a PETA Humanitarian award for his designs. The Mark for Events, 9320 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles; humanesociety.org/h-couture for tickets.
What does it mean to you to show your designs at the H Couture fashion event?
MARC BOUWER: The H Couture Fashion Show is the coming together of designers who are very aware of the cruelties done to animals every day, especially by the fashion industry for the sake of leather and fur clothing and accessories. We want to raise awareness about the horrific and cruel process [in which] these items are made. None of us use animal products in our collections and we are each successful in our own right.
How does one create amazing cruelty-free fashion?
MB: By educating yourself on the technology available to replicate the look and feel of leather and fur without harming animals in any way.
What was the inspiration behind your latest line?
MB: My latest collection is celebrating glamorous women, and young and old Hollywood alike. Stars and film and music are also constant inspirations to me.
What will you be showing on Saturday? Any looks we’ll see on the red carpets soon?
MB: On Saturday, you will see some familiar gowns and dresses that you’ve seen on Kim Kardashian, Heidi Klum, Beyonce [the white dress was worn in her new video “I Was Here”], and most recently on Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon star Zhang Ziyi at the Toronto Film Festival. You’ll also see some designs on Hollywood’s hottest celebrities on upcoming red carpets as well. A consummate jewel box of beautiful drapes, shapes, and colors.
What is the most important thing for consumers to understand about cruelty-free fashion?
MB: No animals are hurt in the making of these. Fur and leather belong on animals, not on hangers.
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