Skin is definitely not in when it comes to snakes

Behind every snakeskin bag, belt or pair of shoes, is a tale of conservation problems, illegal trade and horrific means of slaughter. After a very interesting weekend on set with a variety of seven very different, and very beautiful snakes, I found myself cuddling up to the lovely reptiles by the end of the shoot. My new friendship with the five-foot long, slithering creatures intrigued me to research the use of snakeskin and how it dominates in the fashion industry. My research was nothing short of disturbing.

Exotic skins are the hottest look to walk the catwalk this season, as animal print is back (though it never really goes away) in a big way. Designers like Prada, Roberto Cavalli, Calvin Klein, Donna Karan, Gucci, YSL and Jimmy Choo have all accessorized their couture this season with the skins of many snakes.

Animal rights activists claim that not only are these beautiful creatures being illegally captured in the wild for trade but this fashion craze could prove to be disastrous for the future of these animals. Pythons; being the most popular skin, as designers' claim it is so easy to work with because they are one of the longest and least threatening snakes, are feeling the most impact. The ripple effect of hunting these wild reptiles can also lead to an abundance of rats (their prey) in many areas. Some of the snakes are being skinned alive to feed the appetite of fashionistas alike, and the illegal trade of these reptiles are pushing some species towards extinction and tampering with fragile eco-systems worldwide. Laws prohibit the use of skins that are not farmed with strict regulations, however more and more eyebrows are being raised and environmentalists insist South America and South-East Asia are thriving on illegal trade.

Organizations like WWF and PETA are standing up for the rights of all animals.

“The luxury reptile trade is a ruthless and bloody industry which is also pushing many species towards extinction,” spokeswoman for PETA, Yvonne Taylor, claimed. “The endangered reptile species of tomorrow can be seen in the ads of luxury shops of today.”

Further research reveals the truth about many animals and the inhumane ways they are tortured for their skin or fur.

After learning that trapped snakes have hose pipes forced into their mouths as they are filled with water (while still alive) to loosen their skin, I swore to never own an article of real snakeskin or any skin for that matter. Synthetic cruelty-free replicas are just as attractive and designers like Stella McCartney do a fabulous job in promoting looking great in your own skin, not something else's.

Until humankind starts taking more interest in the survival of these creatures, protecting and preserving their environment and rights, many species could be a thing of the past, found only in vintage shops and shoe closets as accessories instead of living, breathing beautiful animals.

For more on reptiles, from a woman that knows it all, research Val, “The Snake Lady.” She is a true animal lover and lifelong educator of many beautiful creatures. Thanks again Val for all that you do!