Britney Spearsis facing backlash after sharing a photo of a pair of unworn $6,000 (£4,938) Christian Louboutinsnakeskin heels.
The singer shared the photo of one of the multi-coloured heels in her closet to Instagram on Thursday.
"Four years ago I bought my first pair of Christian Louboutin snakeskin heels that were $6,000… PS I’ve never worn them!!!” the mother-of-two captioned the photo.
While the post has been liked more than 262,000 times, many fans of the 37-year-old have taken to the comments to criticise the star for both the expensive price tag of the shoes and the animal skin used in their manufacturing.
“Must be nice to flaunt your overindulgence,” one person wrote. “Meanwhile, we have people who can’t afford their next meal. Here’s an idea, instead of spending that sort of money on nonsense, donate it.”
Another commented: “This really speaks to the people who are going without a single meal today. My God.”
Other people took offence with the use of python skin to create the shoes, and criticised the pop star for purchasing luxury items that contribute to animal cruelty.
“Congrats on contributing to animal cruelty, all for nothing,” one person said.
Someone else wrote: “This is shameful to wear animals killed for vanity and brag about letting them go to waste. So cavalier and dismissive.”
Despite the backlash, others defended Spears and pointed out that she is free to spend her money how she wishes.
“Good for you! You worked hard and you earned them! Don’t let anyone else bring you down. Live your life and spend your money the way you want,” one person wrote.
According to Peta, reptiles such as snakes are often skinned alive “because of the belief that live-flaying keeps their skins supple”.
Spears is not the first celebrity to face backlash for purchasing luxury products made from animal skins. In July, Peta wrote anopen letter to mixed martial artist Conor McGregor, urging him to stop wearing fur.
