University Students Create Bird-Free Feathers in PETA Collaboration
In a first-of-its-kind collaboration with PETA, fashion design students from the University of Kingston, Coventry University, and Northbrook College have crafted an array of vegan feathers that are also free from newly produced synthetics. Made from materials ranging from recycled fibres to metals and vegan leather derived from cactus, these creations represent a move away from the use of bird feathers in fashion.
The fashion leaders of tomorrow are turning away from a past built on animal exploitation. These student designers are at the forefront of a conscious fashion future – creating bold, cruelty-free materials that stand ready to replace bird feathers altogether.
Feathers Torn From Bodies
PETA entities have documented how workers in the fashion industry forcibly restrain young ostriches, electrically stun them, and slit their throats before tearing the feathers from their still-warm bodies. At one slaughterhouse in South Africa, terrified birds were forced to watch as their flockmates were killed. They were then skinned and dismembered, all so humans can use their feathers for a frivolous outfit. Another investigation into peacock farms in China found birds confined to plastic bags that were taped at the legs.
Pain and Fatal Injuries
Other birds fare no better. On crowded farms, peacocks, pheasants, emus, turkeys, and chickens all endure miserable lives and painful deaths so that their feathers can be stolen for fashion. Live plucking, which is common in the industry, causes horrific pain and injuries which are often fatal.
The Feather Industry Lies
Despite what the industry often claims, feathers do not simply fall off the bodies of birds. They aren’t natural and they aren’t ethical. Feathers are a product of cruelty to animals and exploitation. In nature, feathers do moult – but only a few at a time and at certain times of year. Birds are farmed and plucked for profit to meet the fashion industry’s huge demand, plain and simple.
The Future of Fashion is Feather-Free
Many designers, retailers, and fashion events – including Stella McCartney, ba&sh, Felder Felder, Richard Malone, Patrick McDowell, VIN + OMI, Pīferi, Sarah Regensburger, Gymshark, and Helsinki Fashion Week – have joined our feather-free pledge, while many others are opting for luxurious vegan-friendly feathers made from organza, tulle, bamboo, metals, silicone, and recycled materials.
Join the movement. Pledge to never buy any products, clothing items, or accessories that contain feathers.
How to remove all animals from your wardrobe:
Help Animals in 2026: Renew Your PETA Membership!
Donate Now
