Especially Fur You

CEBU, Philippines - Ah yes, PETA has been vocal about this bit, and every time groups like PETA sound off, it’s hard not to feel like a murderer. Honestly, since when has trying to look good ever been a crime? I know there’s a phrase that says “dress to kill” but baby, let’s not go out of bounds. Yes, hindi po tayo titigilan ng PETA but no matter what they say, no matter how they say it, fur continues to sweep the runways and it will do so even until 2012—assuming we do not all go extinct by that time.

No, this is not an article meant to say that we really don’t give a damn about what great groups that aim to take make us cohabit in peace with our furry friends say. This is an article that’s here to tell you that yes, we love fur, but yes, we also believe that being good to our fellow earthlings is cool. That’s exactly why companies like Topshop and fashion houses from Chanel to Stella McCartney have been exploring the idea of faux fur to make sure that we amp up the glamorama factor without necessarily shedding too much blood.

Of course, there are those who still prefer the real thing over the fakeys so when it comes to that, I guess it’s really just all about personal beliefs. Sa makonsensya lang. But whether it’s real or faux that strikes your fancy, one thing holds true: it’s really all about workmanship and quality, baby. No more, no less.

The fancy for fur first hit the runways last 2008 and 2009 with vintage elegance and bohemian luxe as the main themes. This covered everything from classic fur stoles to rocker chic chubbys rounded up with a little bit of Rasputin-slash-Russian influence for an extra shot of coolness. Fur eventually made its way into accessories from bags to boots, ushering the way for the fierce fashion warrior of 2010.

With the controversy that fur has reaped, it was believed that the popularity of fur would somehow eventually die down. Instead, fur is on its way to becoming a staple in the runway and even on the streets.

For 2011, fur will no longer be interpreted as the main star of a collection. Instead, it will be an important accent to a collection with the statement fur coat being the darling of the show. The fur coat alone doesn’t capture the trend completely. Fur will also be used to interpret other emerging trends, making it an essential part of whole.

The 70s Maryanne Faithful and Anita Pallenberg are two of the main influencers of the trend with fur capturing the glamour of the 1970s this time around. We have Gucci’s girls sauntering in fluffy jewel-tone furs, felt hats, and retro leathers in mind. Taking this a little bit farther, it wouldn’t come as a surprise for fur to make a statement in the 1920s fashion revival.

For your inspiration, here are some fur styles that are making waves as we speak:

1. Fur coats and trim

Long, short, fine, thick, fake, or real, it really doesn’t matter anymore since there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to fur. Whether it’s fur all over or just a fur trimming, it’s all about leaning into the classic side. For those who want to play it up on the safe side, some of the most common trims are fur collars, cuffs, and edgings on the hems of skirts and jackets. 

2. Fur sleeves

Remember the boho fur gillet? You know that sleeveless vest where the fur covered only the torso? Well, it’s about time to forget that as we shift to the opposite: fur covering the sleeves completely. This creates a totally new look, with the volume transforming the wearer into a creature of flight. Balance this look with structured pieces and get ready to herald back the 1930s and the 1940s.

3. Colored fur

The natural fur colors continue to be the safest and the most popular of choices but hey, who says we can’t rock fur that’s dyed in the most unnatural colors? Take it from red to blue to green to purple and yes, you will undoubtedly turn heads.

4. Fur Accessories

Maybe you are not yet that confident about rocking fur outerwear. Take it slowly by rocking fur in boots, bags, Cossack hats, and little what-nots. This will make you on your way to reigning supreme in one of fashion’s most controversial trends.  (FREEMAN)