CFDA chief’s NYFW run‑in with PETA draws industry support as he goes on leave

CFDA president Steven Kolb was placed on leave after a confrontation with PETA protesters at COS’s NY Fashion Week show, where he restrained a protester and attempted to cover another’s mouth. The incident went viral and sparked a wave of industry support, with designers like Dennis Basso and, sources say, Anna Wintour backing Kolb, arguing his actions were meant to protect designers. PETA says it will file a police report and pursue charges. The CFDA released a statement affirming the leave while it conducts a full review and reiterating commitment to respectful engagement and safety. The wool protest ties into ongoing anti-fur activism in fashion, and this event comes after the CFDA had already banned fur from runways. Kolb apologized on Instagram for reacting inappropriately. Fern Mallis noted security considerations, and H&M defended its show security. The story underscores tensions between protest activism and leadership in the fashion industry.