Brand probes baa-ttle royale

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, September 17, 2026

During a COS runway show at New York Fashion Week, CFDA CEO Steven Kolb physically restrained a PETA protester opposing wool industry practices, leading to his suspension and public apologies from involved parties. The incident underscores ongoing conflicts between animal rights advocacy and fashion brands, prompting internal investigations and planned discussions between H&M, COS’s parent company, and PETA.

At New York Fashion Week on Sunday, an incident involving executives from the Swedish fashion brand COS and animal rights activists from PETA escalated into a physical confrontation that has since prompted internal investigations and public apologies. The episode unfolded during a COS runway show held at the WSA Building in Manhattan’s Financial District.

Videos from the event show Steven Kolb, CEO of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), physically restraining a female PETA protester who had entered the runway to protest practices in the wool industry. Kolb is seen wrapping his arms and legs around the protester and placing a hand over her mouth in an effort to silence her chants opposing what PETA describes as cruelty in sheep shearing. COS Managing Director Daniel Herrmann was also involved, seen grabbing the protester’s arm to support Kolb’s attempt to end the interruption.

Following the incident, Kolb apologized and announced a voluntary leave of absence from his position at the CFDA. The organization confirmed his suspension, citing the need to address the situation suitably. COS issued a statement expressing regret for the distress caused to guests, participants, and viewers of the show, emphasizing that animal welfare is important to the company and that it shares PETA’s stance that animals should not be harmed to produce fashion items. The brand also stated its commitment to treating all individuals with respect and care, including those expressing opposing views.

PETA announced intentions to file a police report concerning the incident. Meanwhile, a representative for H&M, the parent company of COS, indicated that an internal review is underway to understand how the confrontation escalated and to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions between animal rights advocates and fashion brands regarding the ethical sourcing of materials, with reactions illustrating the complex balance between the right to protest and maintaining order at high-profile industry events. Both organizations involved have expressed a willingness to engage further following the event, with H&M executives reportedly planning to meet with PETA representatives to discuss the matter.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.