International retail giants H&M, Zara, Gap and Topshop have decided to stop using Angora wool by 2020 following an animal cruelty investigation from animal rights organization PETA.

Mohair, which is made from the hair of Angora goats, is known for softness and frequently used in winter apparel such as sweaters, coats and scarves. However, video footage gathered by a team from PETA Asia showed extreme cases of animal cruelty at a dozen goat farms in South Africa, the source of more than 50 percent of the world's mohair.

Fashion retailers direct response to the treatment of angora goats for the production of mohair reflects a wider shift in consumer consciousness regarding the ethical and sustainable production of apparel.

Angora goat is a breed of domesticated goat that is named after Ankara, Turkey, historically known as Angora. The first Angora goats were brought to Europe in the 16th century and has been used for clothes ever since.