Fur Fashion Journey through The Ages

In the world of contemporary fashion, furs are known for their stylish and luxurious appeal. However, it wasn't about looking good back in the days. Initially, it was just about staying warm during those cold winters. But as time went on, furs started to serve more purposes than just keeping warm. That’s exactly what you’re going to learn in this mini yet effective fur fashion guide.

Before that, let's clear a few things: as the trade started, fur became a powerful symbol of wealth and luxury. It used to represent one's status in society. So, other than just staying comfy, people were making statements.

And today…

People still love wearing fur coats, but with a twist - more creative and sustainable ways. Let’s walk you through all that one by one. Starting with:

The Rise of the Fur Trade and Its Fashion Impact

Fur didn’t always start as a stylish item - it began as a way to stay warm in cold places. Traders and explorers would go across icy, snowy lands and mountains to trap animals, including foxes, minks and etc, to bring them back for selling.

At first, real fur coats were just used to keep warm in cold weather. By the 16th century, people in Europe started wearing furs to represent their economic status. Specifically, mink fur coats and sable fur coats were highly in demand among the rich and status-conscious.

As the century shifted to the 17th, fur became a wardrobe essential. This led to a booming fur market across the globe, making fur clothing a symbol of fashion.

This isn't just a story; it's a part of the fur fashion guide that gives the idea of how furs were transformed from a functional garment to a fashionable one.

19th and 20th Century: The Golden Age of Fur Fashion

Fast forward to the 19th and early 20th centuries, known as the golden era for fur fashion. As the Industrial Revolution brought wealth to many, people began craving luxury more than ever. New methods for processing and dyeing furs made them more widely available. Exotic furs like Russian sable and chinchilla fur coats became highly sought after.

This time, it wasn't just a fur coat, but it was also fur jackets and other wardrobe additions made of fur, all due to the efforts of big fashion houses that taught the world different yet fresh ways to don furs.

Modern Fur Fashion: Faux Fur and Sustainability

Now, by the end of the 20th century, fur fashion took a new turn. No, nothing happened with its usage, but people became more aware of environmental issues. Hence, the production of faux fur coats.

While real fur became less popular, it was still a favorite clothing choice. The new technologies made sure everyone can enjoy the same luxury and feel without hurting the sentiments of environmentalists. All that at a much affordable price.

Today, the fur industry offers both traditional and sustainable options. Many brands are now focusing on eco-friendly alternatives, while others continue to offer ethically sourced real fur, such as RFS.

The Future of Fur in Fashion

Although the debate between real fur vs faux fur remains, the future of furs is bright. That’s because both are good in their own way and serve people with different fashion tastes. For instance, if you’re more into real fur, you’ll get: 

• Unique texture and sheen that only real fur can offer
• Durability at its best, that lasts for decades if properly cared for
• Exceptionally warm clothing piece, making it great for extreme conditions
• On the flip side, faux fur offers:
• Eco-friendly options that are pretty easy to maintain
• Affordability. If you’re on a budget but don’t want to compromise on luxury, here’s your pick
• Unlike real furs, faux fur jackets come in various styles and colors since they are easy to dye, allowing you to experiment effortlessly.

FAQs About the History of Fur Fashion

Why should I choose real fur?

You should choose real fur because it's luxurious, super durable, and lasts a long time if properly cared for.

Is real fur still popular in fashion today?

Absolutely! Furs are still famous for their charm and appeal. In fact, unlike before, you can now wear them in different seasons, including fall, spring, and cold summer nights, and not just winters.

Can I wear fur if I am on a budget?

Indeed! Although furs can be pricey, you can still get faux furs if you’re on a budget. They look fancy and feel great against the skin, too, just like the real fur. Plus, you get to have more choices of colors to choose from.

Does fur mean something today?

Yes, initially, it used to protect you from chilly weather, but over time, it has become a symbol of class and wealth because it exudes power and authority.