Ethical Alternatives to Angora

There's sadly been a lot in the news recently about the terrible conditions that angora bunnies are kept in, after PETA released a shocking video with some very upsetting footage. 

A lot of major stores - including Topshop, H&M, Marks & Spencers and ASOS - have suspended usage of angora following the reveal, which we think is great news.

Angora ethics probably aren't something that most people know much about unless they've done the research, so we thought we'd put together a list of ethical alternatives to that angora sweater, to help you make better, more well informed choices!

Cashmere

First up, this beautiful cashmere shawl from Brora (£169) is made using ethically sourced cashmere from Inner Mongolia, hand spun in Scotland. Be sure to make sure that you're cashmere is ethically sourced if you do decide to splash out on it - if it doesn't say then best not to purchase it!

Cashmere is expensive for a reason - it usually takes 2-3 goats to make one jumper, plus those lovely goats can only survive in six regions in the world. If your cashmere jumper is cheap that should ring alarm bells!

The Guardian put together a really useful list of ethical cashmere firms, so check it out if you really want to purchase some.

Angora

Believe it or not it is possible to buy ethically sourced, humane angora items. Ambika Conroy has a whole collection of 'friendly fur' items (including this gorgeous beret $265) which she makes using fur from her own angora bunnies.

Aren't they cute?! :)

Synthetic Fibres

The easiest way to make sure that your products haven't inadvertently caused any animals distress is to steer clear of anything made from animal fur at all. These super cute Flufflies socks from Sea Salt Cornwall (£6.50) are made using 30% recycled polyester - also perfect for people with allergies to fur!

Lambswool

A lot of people might not think of wool as something that needs ethical protection - it's so prevalent in our society and in our stores that it's easy to forget that it comes from an animal! 

If you're looking to make sure those sheep are well looked after before they're sheared, then try one of these beautiful fairisle designed blankets (£69.99) from The Wool Room via Not on the High Street. 

They raise funds for RABI (the charity for farmers and farming families) and are also strong supporters of the Campaign for Wool - who aim to help wool growers get a fairer price for their fleeces.

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It's not always easy to know where your products come from - shops don't often make it very clear which makes it difficult for consumers to be able to make ethical choices. It can also feel a little overwhelming trying to make sure that the people you're buying from aren't owned by a larger company that may have a different ethos or ethical practices.

It is possible to shop ethically and affordably tho, so don't give up! Hopefully this post will have given you a few ideas on where you can spend your money and receive ethical fashion goods in return. 

With a little bit of research and education you can find a wealth of independent and international retailers who are happy and proud to display their ethical status, making it a cinch for you to shop ethical-dilemma free.

Perfect! :)

Love

Sarah