Fashion Week Turmoil: CFDA CEO Confronts PETA Protesters at COS Show
By Editor • September 13, 2026 • 1 min read
New York Fashion Week took a dramatic turn on Sunday during the COS Fall 2026 runway show when Steven Kolb, the CEO of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), physically intervened against PETA activists who disrupted the event. The activists, protesting the use of wool in fashion, managed to storm the runway, brandishing signs that read, 'Sheep beaten and bloodied for wool. Don’t buy it.'
Despite the significant presence of security who removed most of the protesters without incident, Kolb took matters into his own hands. Eyewitnesses reported that he engaged two activists directly, forcibly removing their signs and even restraining one woman by wrapping his legs around her as he attempted to silence her. Footage of the altercation was captured by Fashionista, who was present at the show.
PETA's Allegations and Response
PETA had announced prior to the New York shows that they would intensify their efforts against H&M Group, the parent company of COS, over their wool sourcing practices. Their statement referenced a shocking PETA Asia video that depicted disturbing treatment of sheep in a NATIVA-certified wool operation linked to H&M's supply chain.
In the wake of the incident, PETA released a statement accusing Kolb of assaulting their supporters and announced plans to file a police report. Ingrid Newkirk, PETA's founder, criticized the fashion industry for resorting to violence to stifle opposition to animal cruelty.
Kolb's Apology
Following the tumultuous event, Kolb expressed regret for his actions. In a statement to WWD, he acknowledged that he 'reacted inappropriately' and recognized that it was not his role to confront the protesters personally, suggesting that he should have left the situation to the security team.
Source: fashionista.com
