Rihanna’s Ostrich Top Ruffles PETA’s Feathers
When it comes to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, they usually have their hands full with fur offenses. But one feathered fashion recently worn by Rihanna has the organization all riled up—and they’re not mincing words.
The look in question is a turquoise ostrich top from London designer Antonio Berardi’s Resort 2012 collection, which the Bajan beauty opted to wear for a department store appearance promoting her Reb’l Fleur fragrance.
“Rihanna is flaunting stolen property, in this case feathers possibly plucked right off their rightful owners’ backs,” PETA spokeswoman Sandra Smiley said in a statement, according to The Gloss.
“She has shown little regard for foxes, cows and reptiles, now she’s adding birds to the list of species exploited for her dubious looks. Feathers are often ripped off chickens, geese, ostriches and emus in live plucking. This can result in gaping wounds that are sewn up with a needle and thread without anesthetic.”
But in addition to the animal rights scolding, Smiley went further, referencing the singer’s highly publicized 2009 assault by then-boyfriend Chris Brown.
“We keep hoping that Rihanna, a victim of violence herself, will learn to open her heart and start empathizing with the suffering of others. That includes the animals who are beaten, gassed, electrocuted and poisoned to be turned into fashion accessories.”
Tossing a pie at a mink coat is one thing, but we’d say comparing a feathered top to an incident of domestic violence is more than a little inappropriate. What are your thoughts?
In related news, see which model recently stripped down for a PETA campaign.
