Furs Emerge From Hibernation: From Runway to Real Way

From New York to Los Angeles, and surprisingly due to unseasonably cold weather this year even in Miami, fur has come out to play. For celebrities, socialites, and just freezing cold trendsetters fur is all over the country, even at this time of year. Hats, stoles, vests, swing coats, wraps and trim made from authentic and synthetic furs were sported on and off the runways at Bryant Park for the Fall/Winter 2009 shows, notably by designers Dennis Basso, Venexiana and Terexov . So it's not too late to make an investment this spring on a trend that's sure to last and make a lasting impression.

3/4 sleeve fur coat by Dennis Basso

Two Bryant Park spectators show off their swing coats at New York Fashion Week, New York City

Considered a riskier fashion choice, this posh look tends to work best for evening or special occasions. A great knee length, fur, swing coat paired with an evening blouse, editor pants, or skinny jeans works better for the climates of New York City, Chicago, or the chillier nights in L.A. While the trend may be hard to downplay for daytime, a short coat is a great way to show off legs worn with a mini and tights. Paired with a white T, distressed jean shorts, and a pair of killer heels fur can even be pulled off in the tropics.Moving into spring keep fur colors light, such as white rabbit, which can transition easily from evening to late night. Black or dark browns are best saved for winter.

Stylist Rebecca Luke wears
a Russian inspired fur hat at the Terexov show

While controversial, fur is also a practical choice for keeping your body warm, and animal rights advocates can find quality, cruelty-free imitations. Such heavy hitting designers as Stella McCartney and Diane Von Furstenberg have used faux fur in their collections. Wearing a next to nothing evening dress, not only can fur look lavish but it will also serve a purpose.

Faux fur chubby by Diane Von Furstenberg

Back view of coat by XULY Bet

Mink coat at Jennie's Furs Coral Gables, FL

Purchasing fur is all about preference and budget. New and used furs can be found at antique markets, vintage stores, specialty boutiques and even on the internet at Furoutlet.com. New and designer furs are sold in fur salons at high-end department stores like Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue or at designer stores. Refurbished furs are considerably less expensive. Mink, one of the highest in price, ranging from $999.00 to $3999.00 (used), tends to have an oily and coarse feeling hair that makes wonderful hats, stoles, vests, swing coats and wraps.

Lynx coat at Jennie’s Furs Coral Gables, FL

Fox is another luxurious fur that's considerably less expensive than mink but is similarly high grade and runs between $700 to $1600 (used).  Rabbit, also popularly used as trim, is perhaps the most common, and can be found new or used for a reasonable price. Rabbit fur, which is shorter and tends to be extremely soft, usually prices around $200.00 to $600.00 (used). As wintry weather comes to a close, now is the time to take advantage of furs, especially new ones, exceptionally priced on sale everywhere.

Fox fur at Jennie's Furs Coral Gables, FL

 

Faux fur by XULY Bet at This Day Arise African Fashion Collective

Fur although expensive is a great investment piece with durability that lasts a lifetime, whether in your closet or eventually put up for resale. Stick to a classic silhouette, like the swing or a-line cut, and your fur should never go out of style. Whether you wear fur out of necessity, for status, or as a trend, this is a look to which any women can treat herself. Unless you live in or travel to cold climates, be advised not to spend a lot of money on this trend as it may not get such frequent wear and will probably do more hibernating than hunting.

You can submit a question to either Noel or Miko through the "Ask The Expert" section or contact the editor directly at  miko@herstoknow.com.