Fur: A Fuzzy and Debatable Controversy

Fur, no doubt, has remained the signature of elite fashion for hundreds of years. From a tame trim to a full, robust coat, fur has served more than just an aesthetically pleasing edge. Highly insulating, softness to the touch and the shine and bounce of every strand is almost too much to handle; the most chic accents to any piece used in the fashion industry is undoubtedly created with fur. Yet, with the growing interest in preserving the environment, a number of fashion spectators, stylists and everyone else in between must also preserve their image as an environmental conservationist to keep current with the times. It is not always the case, however, that many fashion icons pursue a greener image. Style icons- Jennifer Lopez, Kate Moss and Cate Blanchett continue to wear fur- whether it be for a photo op or just simply for a shopping trip.

Ok, enough with the seriousness. I hate being told what to wear. I cannot imagine anyone else would like it either. The amount of criticism that these fashion icons receive on a daily basis is enough to drive anyone insane. From a male perspective though, fur tends to be a wardrobe choice few and far between. Of the times I have walked into a luxury department store or scanned the pages of numerous online shops, I rarely find myself gawking at men's fur (if there are any to begin with in the places I look). Apart from a fur-trim hoodied parka, the only other item of clothing made of material originating from animals is leather. Don't get me wrong, it is not the case that I actively participate in the campaigning towards People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. Furthermore, it is not as if I scour the shelves of Ralph Lauren or Roberto Cavalli in the hopes of finding the most lavish, fur coat that merely projects an image that my style choices parallel those of a hustling pimp in a 1970's Pam Grier flick.

I belive that moderation must take the first bite out of the fashion apple. Every other choice thereafter, is (or rather- should be) a personal decision. I am pro-choice for people wearing what they want to wear. It is due to our long history wearing fur and accessorizing with animal skins that really allow us to wear them without hesitation. In a diverse world, we should become accustomed to different ideas presented by various cultures. In the world of fashion, the blending of ideas means incorporating numerous aspects of fashion deriving from every continent to produce innovative fashion trends, sleek variations within one design and fresh renovations of tired, outdated looks. Fur is an option used to produce fresh combinations along with many other materials, even among the dullest of fabrics. I have always admired the way fur can, in the most simplistic manner, create a look of brilliance upon any woman's body. With a coat or accessories painted with fur, we are able to transform the everyday garb into a once-in-a-blue-moon masterpiece.

As for Kate Moss and the numerous celebrities who use fur for fashion statements, even a little can go a long way. Drowned in Sable fur or perhaps mink, the possibility to look chic is limited. With a jacket or a bag as the fur statement or more generally, showcasing tidbits of fur, we witness the numerous ways in which we can make less look like a whole lot more. I continue to applaude the usage of fur in today's fashion industry, of course, in moderation. Moreso, I feel that a vintage piece has the ability to shine more profoundly. A classic cut in even today's most contemporary trends enable a style choice that cannot be found in fur boutiques. Purchasing a vintage fur piece enables you to enjoy fur (at usually a fraction of the price) and not contribute to the growing fur trade industry, which is rapidly rising from a reported $9.1 billion in 2000 right up to $11.7 billion in 2004 (International Fur Trade Federation). Moderation plays no part in the decision making for fur fans around the world.

All in all, we should make decisions wisely. We must decide whether or not the decisions we make will affect our environment as well as our image. Fur is sexy and can be used in very practical ways, however, people who wear too much fur have us questioning their motives: are they dressing for fashion or just to look rich? Is it necessary to perpetuate a cycle that is by no means beneficial to us as it is to animals? It is important to, once again, turn to the rule of moderation, because almost too much of anything is a bad idea.