Looking to add faux fur to your winter wardrobe, but don’t know where to start your search? Or whether faux fur is even vegan? We've got all you need to know right here.
A growing number of fashion brands are responding to consumer demand for ethically-sourced, vegan options, however many are producing products labelled as ‘vegan’ which contain mixed materials consisting of both synthetic elements and animal-derived constituents.
The question is, how do we really know what we are buying? What even is faux fur? And importantly, is faux fur even vegan?
What is faux fur?
Early in the 20th Century, faux fur was frequently referred to as pile fabric, often made from the leftover materials of other fabrics, thus making a ‘pile’ like appearance.
Today, faux fur is a catch-all term to identify any textile fabric designed to resemble real fur. These fabrics are typically crafted from synthetic fibres such as acrylics and modacrylics, processed to resemble the appearance of animal fur.
Faux fur has truly come a long way, thanks to advanced technology and the rising demand of ethical clothing from the mainstream. Faux fur wearables are now almost identical to real fur.
Is faux fur vegan?
While more brands are providing faux fur options, the reality is that many don’t meet a sufficient standard of craftsmanship to accurately label their products as 100% animal-friendly.
Reports have shown that many products labelled ‘vegan’ or ‘faux fur’ still contain wool, leather and animal hair. Other seemingly innocuous materials often used include ‘camlet’ (a fabric derived from camel or goat’s hair) and silk (made from fibroin produced by the insect larvae).
Unfortunately, the lack of information and transparency around the production process for less reputable brands means that it’s difficult to know what you are getting, and makes it hard to distinguish between real and faux fur.
To ensure you’re purchasing a truly animal-friendly faux fur product, choose to spend with reputable brands which provide detail on how their products are produced and prioritise the welfare of both the animals and the environment.
Where can I buy faux fur?
There are a number of retailers and brands which offer true faux fur, and you can purchase pieces either in store or online.
We’ve compiled a list of our favourite quality faux fur brands below for inspiration.
Be sure to find out more about the garment you’re purchasing before you click “buy”: always ask questions and refer to the FAQ section of websites to find out more.
Is faux fur expensive?
The price of your next faux fur coat will be determined by a number of variables, such as the faux fur yarn, the manufacturing process, and the brand name you are buying from.
As faux fur is an artificially produced fabric that is relatively easy to sew, it is typically still cheaper than premium real fur.
Can it get wet?
Experts strongly recommend not wearing your coat if you’re expecting it to get wet. Getting the lining and fabric wet could cause the synthetic fibres to loosen from the coat, which could potentially cause damage to the coat in the long term.
If the coat does get wet, it's recommended to air dry it on a flat surface, to allow it to dry naturally distorting its shape. If in doubt, a trusted dry cleaner is also a good solution.
Does faux fur keep you warm?
Despite what some may think, faux fur does keep you warm. Whether you live in a cold or warmer climate, there is a faux fur solution for you.
Many brands provide options ranging from vests for spring and autumn to long fur coat options to keep you snug in winter.
Our 5 Favourite Faux Fur Picks for Winter 2020
Unreal Fur
Unreal Fur is a Melbourne-based company which specialises in creating luxury, faux fur products. Since its inception, Unreal Fur has been stocked in major stores around the world, including Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue, Farfetch, Revolve and Free People.
ASOS
ASOS is a hidden gem when it comes to the world of faux fur fashion. This UK company stocks a wide selection of modern faux fur jackets and coats at an affordable price.
REFORMATION
Reformation is an American sustainable fashion brand with a mission to make comfortable, effortlessly elegant, women’s clothing.
Bubish Luxe
Bubish Luxe is an Australian brand specialising in sophisticated, sustainable clothing. All materials are sourced consciously to maintain the highest-tier of craftsmanship.
STAND STUDIO
Born in 2014, STAND STUDIO was founded in Sweden from the idea to make expertly crafted, high fashion garments. The brand pays tribute to iconic Scandinavian simplicity and purity in every item of outerwear.
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