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The Animal Origins of What We Wear: A Journey Through the Textile Kingdom

Jermaine Powell

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Putting on the Dog: The Animal Origins of What We Wear

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	286 pages

We often take for granted the clothing we wear, but few of us stop to think about the animal origins of many of our garments. From the silk produced by silkworms to the wool shorn from sheep, animals have played a vital role in the development of human fashion.

In her fascinating book, The Animal Origins of What We Wear, author Kate Fletcher explores the complex and often surprising ways that animals have influenced our clothing. She delves into the history of animal-derived textiles, from the ancient practice of sheepherding to the modern-day fur industry. Fletcher also examines the ethical issues surrounding the production of animal-based clothing, such as the treatment of animals and the environmental impact of animal agriculture.

The Animal Origins of What We Wear is a must-read for anyone who is interested in fashion, sustainability, or animal welfare. Fletcher's writing is both informative and engaging, and she provides a wealth of insights into the complex relationship between humans and animals.

Silk: The Luxurious Threads of Silkworms

Silkworms Spinning Silk Putting On The Dog: The Animal Origins Of What We Wear

Silk is one of the most luxurious and sought-after fabrics in the world. It is produced by the larvae of the mulberry silkworm, Bombyx mori. Silkworms are native to China, where they have been cultivated for thousands of years.

To produce silk, silkworms are fed a diet of mulberry leaves. The leaves contain a protein that the silkworms convert into silk. The silk is then spun into a cocoon, which the silkworm uses to protect itself during its transformation into a moth.

Once the cocoon is complete, it is harvested and the silk is extracted. The silk is then spun into yarn and woven into fabric.

Silk is a strong and durable fabric with a beautiful sheen. It is often used in luxury clothing, such as dresses, blouses, and scarves.

Wool: The Warmth of Sheep

Sheep Grazing In A Field Putting On The Dog: The Animal Origins Of What We Wear

Wool is another important animal-derived textile. It is produced by the coats of sheep. Wool is a natural insulator, which makes it ideal for keeping us warm in cold weather.

Sheep have been domesticated for thousands of years, and wool has been used to make clothing for just as long. Wool is a versatile fabric that can be used to make a wide variety of garments, such as sweaters, coats, and socks.

Wool is a sustainable fabric that is biodegradable and renewable. It is also relatively easy to care for.

Leather: The Durable Hide of Animals

A Piece Of Leather Putting On The Dog: The Animal Origins Of What We Wear

Leather is a durable and versatile material that is made from the hide of animals. Leather is used to make a wide variety of products, such as shoes, boots, jackets, and furniture.

The most common types of leather are made from the hides of cows, pigs, and sheep. Leather is a strong and durable material that is resistant to water and wear. It is also relatively easy to clean and care for.

Leather is a sustainable material that is biodegradable and renewable. However, the production of leather can have a negative impact on the environment. The tanning process, which is used to preserve leather, can release harmful chemicals into the environment.

Fur: The Warmth of Animals

A Fur Coat Putting On The Dog: The Animal Origins Of What We Wear

Fur is the warm and insulating coat of animals. Fur is used to make a variety of clothing items, such as coats, hats, and gloves.

Fur is a natural insulator that helps to keep us warm in cold weather. However, the production of fur can have a negative impact on animal welfare. Many animals are killed for their fur, and some are subjected to cruel and inhumane treatment.

There are a number of ethical alternatives to fur available. These alternatives include synthetic fur, which is made from man-made materials, and faux fur, which is made from natural materials such as wool or alpaca.

The Future of Sustainable Fashion

The fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world. The production of clothing uses a lot of energy and water, and it generates a lot of waste. The production of animal-based clothing also has a negative impact on the environment and on animal welfare.

There is a growing movement towards sustainable fashion. Sustainable fashion is fashion that is produced in a way that minimizes its environmental impact and its impact on animal welfare.

There are a number of ways to make fashion more sustainable. These include:

Buying less clothing
Buying clothing made from sustainable materials
Buying clothing from ethical brands
Donating or recycling old clothing

By making these changes, we can help to create a more sustainable fashion industry.

The Animal Origins of What We Wear is a fascinating and informative book that explores the complex relationship between humans and animals. Fletcher provides a wealth of insights into the history of animal-derived textiles, the ethical issues surrounding their production, and the future of sustainable fashion. This book is a must-read for anyone who is interested in fashion, sustainability, or animal welfare.

Putting on the Dog: The Animal Origins of What We Wear

4.4 out of 5