This season we seem to be revisiting the early 1970's, and recapturing the mood of the era with paisley, worn denim, crocheted trim, burn-out velvet and a renewed interest in fur. Fur, worn as protection by prehistoric man, has, as fashion, waxed and waned throughout history. From the days of early European settlements to the development of modern alternatives, fur has been popular in cold climates, and in the last two centuries, associated with glamour, lavish spending and societal status.
In recent years, a growing number of consumers and designers, notably British fashion designer and outspoken animal rights activist Stella McCartney, are rejecting fur due to moral beliefs about cruelty to animals. In response, the fur industry argues that wearing fur is a natural, renewable and sustainable resource, using part of what nature produces each year without depleting wildlife populations or damaging the natural habitats that sustain them; and that synthetics are generally made from petroleum, a non-renewable resource.
Still controversial, fur as fashion is making a huge comeback, with an abundance of faux choices available. Shearling seems to be everywhere, with different interpretations from trim to full-length coats. Fur vests and jackets ruled the runway, and fur has been incorporated into hats, gloves, boots and handbags. Add this trend to your winter wardrobe for warmth and fashion.
