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PETA sent a topless model to pose at the 2026 Met Gala red carpet as a protest against celebrities and models using real feathers in their outfits.
On May 5, a model representing PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) posed on the Met Gala red carpet, in protest of feathers used in some of the other attendees’ outfits. A banner with “Feathers: A Look That Kills” was also held behind, while the attendee wrote it on her chest as well. The model was seen naked, her body painted grey, and wearing artificial feathers on her arms.
In a video shared online by the organization’s official account, they shared clips of the PETA model and wrote:
“Showed up and showed out at the #MetGala. Our “plucked bird” exposed the birds who die behind every feathered frock on the red carpet.”
The organization’s statement appears to hint at the fashion industry’s use of birds’ feathers in their collections. Birds such as ostriches, peacocks, and emus are killed and their feathers are plucked to be used by major designer labels across the world. The model’s message called out the practice, aligning with the organization’s overall stance against animal cruelty.
PETA President Tracy Reiman gives statement about their stance at the Met Gala
In a press release shared by PETA, President Tracy Reiman opened up on the organization’s stance at the Met Gala. She stated:
“Behind every feathered frock on the red carpet is a bird who felt pain and fear and didn’t want to die for a fleeting fashion statement. We are calling on designers and consumers to leave feathers on the birds who were born with them and embrace compassionate vegan couture.”
The practice of using birds’ feathers in fashion has been an age-old practice that has been condemned by animal rights activists over the years. For instance, industry workers reportedly retain ostriches as young as one year old, electrocute them, and pluck their feathers while they are still breathing. Other birds such as emus, peacocks, turkeys, pheasants, and chickens, also go through similar practices.
These feathers are used by fashion labels across the world. However, many brands have gone cruelty-free over the years, including certain luxury labels such as Stella McCartney. The popular designer, who remains feather-free in her brand, also urged other labels to sign PETA‘s feather-free pledge and stop using feathers in their collections.
Further, fashion shows such as Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show and Copenhagen Fashion Week have also banned the use of real feathers in their events.
Edited by Pratyasha Sarkar
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