The Bowdoin Orient

"Using fur in 2008 just isn't cool or modern," proclaims New York-based designer, Charlotte Ronson.

It was the début of a new fur-free Charlotte Ronson collection, and I watched in awe as the crowds of like-minded journalists, editors, buyers, and socialites packed the Altman Building for last Monday's 2008 Autumn/Winter show. Charlotte's brother, musician Mark Ronson, as well as Nicky Hilton and Ally Hilfiger, all came to express their support alongside the runway, proof that Ronson, the daughter of a British business tycoon, has truly made a success story of her own.

The presentation, which was sponsored by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), now places the Charlotte Ronson label on a list of other fur-free, high-end designers and labels such as Betsey Johnson, Marc Bouwer, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Stella McCartney, and Nicole Miller, who have all pledged to use alternative materials.

HSUS Director, Kristin Leppert commented, "We hope other designers will emulate Charlotte Ronson."

After the Le Hay press team of four was seated, we eagerly pawed through our gift bags, quickly discovering American Apparel "VOTE RONSON" tees with red "NO FUR!" buttons attached, a HSUS informational DVD and various flyers outlining the fur-free campaign. Additionally, a press release explained that Ronson gives out the pins at her Manhattan boutique on Mulberry Street, as well as within the pockets of any faux-fur jacket shipped to her stocklist stores.

Charlotte's sister, the quasi-celebrity Samantha Ronson, spun the tracks, as diverse and upbeat models walked to reveal a collection that blended urban, yuppy, and hippie-chic into one. Highlights included a bevy of incredible dresses, skirts, and knits composed of luxurious fabrics ranging from wool, cashmere, tweed, denim and silk. Ronson's new designs were relaxed and well-tailored, yet energetic. Faux-fur jackets and trimmings added unique texture, while silver metallics, sequins, and the occasional appliqué gave a timid sparkle effect. Tartan and plaid patterns mixed with a palette of plum, camel, charcoals, raspberry, and autumn leaves created a simple fluidity.

Charlotte Ronson's new collection is certainly a stylistically younger example of what to expect for the upcoming autumn/winter 2008-09 season. Moreover, in my opinion, Ronson can now be considered a leader in creating exciting, fur-free collections.

Following the show, the celebration of a new fur-free Charlotte Ronson headed to Butter on Lafayette Street, where Samantha Ronson continued to drop fabulous beats for over 300 guests, including Nick Cannon and Tinsley Mortimer, to further promote the fur-free message.

As is frequently the case in fashion, it is not always easy to convince other industry high-rollers to join such campaigns. I noticed rather graphic and aggressive anti-fur demonstrations upon entering the Donna Karan and Michael Kors shows. Nevertheless, these and numerous other designers consistently embrace fur materials in their collections. In Europe, where fur is adored, the battle is all uphill. Although fur and rare skins have long been a symbol of success and luxury, it will be fascinating to see how many other top-end designers join the fur-free bandwagon.

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