Another way to show your love for critters: not wearing them in the first place. Emily von Klemperer, a Kalorama resident and an attorney for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, tells us how she does it.
1. Avoid These Materials
Leather, fur, down, wool, suede, silk, angora, cashmere, pashmina, mohair, and shear-ling all indicate that the garment is made from animal products.
2. Look for These Fabrics
Polyester, linen, modal, acrylic, and microfiber are all made from plant or synthetic products. Cotton is a breathable staple, rayon is an alternative to silk, and polyurethane is a substitute for leather.
3. Let Websites Do the Work for You
A “vegan” label means an item is devoid of any animal products. Zappos.com/vegan has hundreds of shoe and clothing options, while modavanti.com, founded by a Georgetown grad, lets you filter for vegan products under its Shop by Wellness category.
4. Shop These Brands for 9-to-5 Wear
Von Klemperer looks to Calvin Klein, Ann Taylor, and Banana Republic for non-wool suiting. H&M, Zara, Old Navy, and Loft also receive top marks from PETA for vegan-friendliness.
This article appears in our October 2016 issue of Washingtonian.
Sarah is the Editor-in-Chief of Washingtonian Bride & Groom, and writes about weddings, fashion, and shopping. Her work has also appeared in Refinery29, Bethesda Magazine, and Washington City Paper, among others. She is a Georgetown University graduate, lives in Columbia Heights, and you can find her on Instagram at @washbridegroom and @sarahzlot.
