Famed accessories designer Tod’s is raising eyebrows this year at Milan Fashion Week. In the spirit of mixing up the status quo, this season the high-end brand equipped several of its models with actual puppies to strut down the runway with. The fur babies were smol and cute af, but also we’re concerned?
Gigi Hadid modeled a warm autumnal look comprised of two oversized shearling coats paired with black leather pants, accessorizing with a roomy leather tote in one hand, and an adorable bulldog in the other.
While not every model walked out with a furry friend, there were plenty of opportunities for attendees to melt over pint-sized chihuahuas, shiba inus and spaniels. But all warm cuddles and fuzziness aside, some are wondering if Tod’s choice was appropriate, given their status as a well-known leather house, according to Teen Vogue.
tod’s is a leather house and they used puppies as an accessory on the runway and i’m uncomfortable
— caroline (@carolinenycek) February 23, 2018
Gigi-with-puppy at Tod’s. Interesting accessory choice for a leather house…. pic.twitter.com/YHyMYHM5wu
— Vanessa Friedman (@VVFriedman) February 23, 2018
It’s definitely understandable if the label wanted to create a more relatable image, but I think it’s safe to say they fell flat with the execution. Regardless of whether you believe it’s appropriate to use live animals as accessories, Tod’s choice has raised some important questions about fashion and ethical treatment of animals.