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Strawberry Clothing Stores Caught Selling Mislabeled Fur

by Annie Hartnett · March 14, 2011

The Humane Society of the United States recently revealed that Strawberry, a New York-based retailer, has been selling real fur vests mislabeled as "faux fur" and unlabeled sweaters trimmed with raccoon dog fur. The discount retailer is alsohawking rabbit fur fashions, which, although properly labeled, are nonetheless cruel.

Since this hairy discovery, the HSUS has called on Strawberry to drop all fur from its stores, in order to show a commitment to animal welfare and to the store's consumers, who deserve to know what they are buying. Unfortunately, Strawberry has made no moves thus far towards adopting a fur-free policy.

Now is not the time for the retailer to be dragged its feet. The Truth in Fur Labeling Act goes into effect later this month. After that time, Strawberry could face hefty fines and possible jail time for leaving fur unlabeled, or for mislabeling real fur as faux fur.

Strawberry is known around New York City for its bargain prices. Many shoppers are misled into believing that a cheap garment means the fur trim can't possibly be real. But listen up spend-thrifts: cheap isn't always synonymous with compassion when it comes to furry fashions.

The HSUS's Patrick Kwan explains: "Low quality animal fur (which can sometimes be scraps) can actually be cheaper than the new high quality fake fur (usually made from tufts of acrylic fibers that are held in place by weaving them into a backing of fabric)."

It's likely that the fur sold at Strawberry came from Chinese fur farms, as that is where much of the cheapest fur sold in the U.S. is sourced. Undercover investigations have revealed the horrific cruelties that animals suffer on Chinese fur farms. Rabbits are routinely anally electrocuted, and raccoon dogs have been skinned alive.

Animals shouldn't have to pay the true price for cheap fur. Sign our petition to ask Strawberry to commit to being fur-free.

Annie Hartnett is a writer and animal advocate who has worked for several wildlife rehabilitation centers and environmental programs.