Fur Uses: A Comprehensive Guide to Fur in Fashion and Beyond

Fur is a material that has been used for centuries, both for its practicality and its aesthetic appeal. While it has a controversial history and is often associated with luxury fashion, there are many uses for fur that are often overlooked. In this article, we will explore the various uses of fur, its history, and its modern applications.

History of Fur

Fur has been used by humans for thousands of years, initially for practical purposes, such as warmth and protection. In prehistoric times, early humans used animal fur to create clothing and shelter. As civilizations developed, fur became a symbol of wealth and luxury. In ancient Rome, for example, only the wealthy could afford fur clothing. In the Middle Ages, fur became a symbol of nobility and was worn by royalty and the upper classes.

Fur continued to be a popular material throughout history, with many explorers and traders seeking out new sources of fur. During the 17th and 18th centuries, fur trapping and trading became a major industry, with fur pelts from animals such as beavers and foxes being exported from North America to Europe. The fur trade became a lucrative industry, and fur was used to create high-end fashion items, such as coats, hats, and gloves.

Throughout history, fur has shifted in terms of its popularity. In the early 20th century, fur was seen as a symbol of wealth and luxury, worn by people in the upper classes. This popularity continued through the mid-century, with fur coats being a staple of women's fashion in the 1950s and 1960s. Mink coats and mink stoles were extremely popular. 

During the 1970s and 1980s all types of fur were very popular. Fox and mink coats were very popular and fashionable. Fur was featured by designers and featured in major fashion magazines. 

In the 1990s  many fashion designers and retailers began to phase out fur from their collections. This was due in part to changing attitudes toward animal welfare and sustainability, as well as the changing fashion trends of the time.

However, in recent years, fur has seen a resurgence in popularity. Many high-end fashion designers have started incorporating fur back into their collections, and fur coats and accessories have become popular among younger generations. 

Additionally, real fur is regaining popularity over faux fur as sustainability concerns are addressed. Real fur is biodegradable and renewable, lasts decades, and is often reworked from older pieces to eliminate waste. If you want to learn more about sustainability in fur, check out our blog post “Sustainable Fur: Truths & Lies About Fur Sustainability.”

Overall, the popularity of fur has fluctuated over time, with changing attitudes toward animal welfare and sustainability playing a major role in its rise and decline. While it remains a controversial material, it continues to be used in luxury fashion and other industries.

Types of Fur

Fur offers a unique combination of warmth, softness, and durability. It is one of the most effective ways to protect against the cold and other elements.

Fur is an excellent insulator because it traps air between its fibers. This air provides a layer of insulation that helps to keep the body warm, even in very cold temperatures. In addition, fur is soft and comfortable to wear, making it a popular choice for clothing and accessories.

As a very durable material, fur can withstand a lot of wear and tear. It is naturally resistant to water and stains, and is less prone to damage from moths and other pests than other materials. If cared for and stored properly, fur can last decades and be passed on through generations. This durability makes it a popular choice for outerwear, such as parkas and coats, as well as for traditional clothing items in many cultures. 

Finally, fur is prized for its beauty and versatility. Fur comes in a variety of types, textures, and colors, each with their own unique properties and characteristics. It is used to create a wide variety of clothing and accessories, and it can be styled in many different ways, from simple and practical to luxurious and ornate.

There are many types of fur used in fashion and other industries. Some of the most popular types of fur include:

Mink

Mink fur is one of the most commonly used types of fur in fashion. It is soft, lightweight, and has a glossy sheen. This type of fur is versatile as it can be sheared or made reversible. Mink fur is often used to create fur coats, hats, and other accessories.

Fox

Fox fur is another popular type of fur, known for its thick and fluffy texture. This type of fur is best to dye and can come in a range of colors and styles. Fox fur is often used to create fur trim on jackets and coats, as well as fur hats and scarves. It is also a great choice for home decor, such as pillows and blankets.

Chinchilla

Chinchilla fur is very soft and lightweight with a plush texture. It is known for its wavy surface and interesting coloration. It is often used to create fur coats, hats, and other accessories.

Rabbit

Rabbit fur is soft and lightweight, and it is typically less expensive than other types of fur.

It is often used to create fur trim on jackets and coats, as well as fur hats and gloves.

Coyote

Coyote fur is a durable and warm fur, often used in parkas and other outerwear. It has a shaggy texture and is often used in its natural color.

Beaver

Beaver fur is a dense, warm fur that is often used for insulation. It is also used to create hats, coats, and other accessories.

Overall, each type of fur provides warmth, softness, durability, and versatility that is unmatched by other materials. While the development of modern fabrics and insulation materials has provided alternatives to fur, it remains a popular choice for many people. For more information about the different types of fur as used on luxury fur coats, as well as the pros and cons of each type, check out our blog post “Types Of Luxury Fur Coats: The Most Popular Fur Choices [With Pros & Cons]”

Fur in Fashion

Despite the constant shift in fur’s popularity since the mid-20th century, the 1950s and 1980s remain a peak period for fur in fashion. Fur's popularity during this time was due in part to changing attitudes toward women's fashion. The 1920s and 1930s had been characterized by more streamlined and modern styles, with shorter hemlines and less emphasis on ornate details. In the 1950s, however, fashion became more glamorous and luxurious, with longer hemlines, more intricate designs, and a greater emphasis on elegance and sophistication. Fur was a natural fit for this new style, as it was seen as the epitome of luxury and extravagance. 

Fur's popularity during this time was also due to the growth of the middle class. With rising incomes and greater access to luxury goods, more and more people were able to afford fur coats and other fur items. In addition, fur was widely promoted and marketed by the fur industry, with advertisements featuring glamorous models and celebrities.

Fur has long been a popular material in fashion, with designers using fur to create luxurious and stylish clothing and accessories. Some of the most popular fur fashion items include:

Fur Coats

Fur coats are the most iconic use of fur in fashion. They are often made from mink, fox, or chinchilla fur, and can be styled in a variety of ways. While fur coats are often associated with luxury fashion, there are also more affordable options available.

Fur Accessories

Fur can also be used to create a variety of accessories, including hats, scarves, gloves, slippers and even purses. Fur accessories are a cozy and stylish way to stay warm in the colder months and can add a touch of luxury to any outfit.

Designer Fur

High-end fashion designers often use fur in their collections, creating unique and luxurious pieces that are highly sought after. Designer fur items can include anything from fur-trimmed jackets to full-length fur coats.

Non-Fashion Uses of Fur

While fur is often associated with fashion, there are many other uses for this material. Some of the non-fashion uses of fur include:

Home Decor

Fur can be used to create a variety of home decor items, such as throws, pillows, beanbags and rugs. It can often be used to customize furniture to match your interior design. Using fur for home decor can add an unparalleled element of texture with a cozy, luxurious feel to any room.

Insulation

Fur is a highly effective and natural insulator, and has been used for this purpose for centuries. Besides being used to make winter clothing and blankets, it is utilized as insulation for homes and buildings. This type of insulation is energy-efficient with animal fur that has been compressed and made suitable for use in walls, ceilings, and floors.

Traditional Clothing

In some cultures, fur is still used to create traditional clothing items. For example, Inuit people in Canada and Greenland use fur to create warm and protective clothing for the cold Arctic climate. Sable fur is also used in hats in certain religions. 

Fur has a rich history and has been used for a variety of purposes throughout the centuries. While it is often associated with luxury fashion, there are many other uses for this material as well, including home decor, insulation, and traditional clothing.