The wildfires which have ravaged Australia since September have caused the rest of the world to stop and take notice. With at least 25 people losing their lives, and up to one billion animals killed, the fires, which many have speculated to be linked to the worsening climate crisis, have resulted in people worldwide pledging their support and solidarity with the nation.
In an announcement made last night, Balenciaga revealed its plans to do its bit to help by selling koala t-shirts and hoodies on its website, following reports stating that 30 per cent of koalas may have been killed in regions of the country.
“In response to Australia’s ongoing bushfire crisis… Balenciaga has decided to release t-shirts and hoodies that feature an image of the vulnerable Australian Koala,” the Parisian luxury house wrote on its Instagram story last night. “100 per cent of the proceeds from the sales of these pieces will be donated to the most appropriate local conservation organisation selected by the Kering Group and Balenciaga sustainability experts.”
The news follows on from donations made by the Kering Group yesterday. With the luxury group owning the likes of Balenciaga, Gucci, Saint Laurent and more, Kering announced a donation of one million Australian dollars to help tackle the fires.
Considering the pieces were made specially, some have taken to Twitter to criticise the act of producing clothing to raise money for an issue that is believed to be a result of climate change. “Balenciaga making ugly koala clothing to raise funds for the fires in Australia like they couldn’t just straight up donate and not add to the problem by creating more product,” one user wrote. Others, however, have praised the brand for its efforts.
The t-shirts and hoodies will be sold exclusively on Balenciaga’s website from January 13.