Fur clothing

There is a debate about the exact date when fur was used for the first time in clothing. One thing is sure, fur was among the first materials for human clothing purpose or bodily decoration. It is interesting that even Homo neanderthalensis used fur clothing and fur is still worn around the world because of its superior durability and warmth. Inexpensive synthetic textile made fur clothing falling out of fashion, but still high fashion designers have luxurious and desirable fur collections. Also, it is a part of traditional clothing in some countries, for example Russia, Japan and Scandinavian countries. A person who deals in animal furs, including making, repairing and cleaning, is called a furrier.

Shearling is fur shorn down to imitate the soft velvet and it is perhaps the most commonly worn type of skin. Although a lot of people does not understand this, shearling is not shorn wool. On the contrary, it is a sheepskin or lambskin pelt. Shearling is used for boots, jackets and coats. Shearling fur coats have been worn and popular since ancient times all around the world, especially in Asia and Europe. They are today made in trendy modern style and still really popular, particularly among young women.

Animals that are commonly used for fur clothing and accessories are fox, rabbit, possum, seals etc. Among them there is a difference in prize, color and insulating properties. Controversy about the fur reached a peak in the 1980s and 1990s. Anti-fur campaigns put the fur clothing into the focus of boycotts. Arguments were that it is unnecessary and extremely cruel against the animals so animal rights organizations took part in this campaigns. A number of consumers and designers rejected fur because of moral beliefs. Still, there are plenty of them who adore fur and do not accept these arguments. Fur is glamorous, charming and has unquestionable insulating properties.