Morris Kaye & Sons Blog

Fur coats need the proper TLC to last a lifetime. Fur coats are investment pieces and when cared for properly, they can serve as heirlooms and passed

How to Care for Your Fur Coat

from one generation to the next.

1. Store the fur coat in an air tight plastic container. This prevents air from getting to the coat. Expose the coat to air from time to time. Once or twice every few months will be enough to prevent the coat from drying out, but will also prevent it from molting. This is ideal for someone who has a fur coat, but does not necessarily wear it often. You can find long, slim boxes at big box stores. Store the coat laying flat in the box and slip the box under a bed. This makes it easy to remove the coat and expose it to air every now and then.

2. The coat should be stored away if you are not wearing it for a long time. If you own a fur coat and wear it during the winter months, you most likely do not wear it for the remaining months out of a year. Instead of exposing the coat to air by letting it hang in the closet, move the coat to air tight storage. Exposure to too much air, when the temperature is not being controlled, can dry out the hair. Moisture in the air can also cause the hair to clump and eventually molt. This is something that can happen to fur over time in general, but exposing the coat air for a long duration of time speeds up this process.

3. Let fur air dry. If you find yourself in light rain or snow and your fur gets wet, let it air dry. Some people blow dry their fur dry, but the heat can be bad for the fur depending on the setting. Because fur coats are comprised of natural hair, it’s best if the coat or fur piece simply air dries. Hang up the coat when you get in or lay it flat to dry on a towel. You do not want to lay it flat if water has saturated any piece of the fur. If it is very wet, hang it to dry on a shower rod to allow both sides of the coat breathing room.

It’s important to know how to care for your fur coat whether you buy it new or inherit it from a family member.

Fur shawls and wraps have become very popular for those shopping for modern fur pieces. Classic fur coats are great, but can sometimes have a look

How to Wear a Fur Shawl or Wrap

that’s over the top. Let’s face it, a long fur coat is not convenient for most modern lifestyles. Women are shopping for fur pieces that are easy to wear and functional for casual and evening wear. A fur shawl or wrap are perfect for both occasions, giving you major bang for your buck.

1. Toss a fur shawl on with jeans. The first thing to remember about wearing fur in a modern manner is to skip the rules of when to wear fur. Fur works during the day, as long as it’s styled correctly. Juxtapose a fur shawl or wrap with a T-shirt and jeans. It sounds dramatic and it is, but it also looks effortless and chic. Think Kate Moss when working a look like this. It should look easy going, but pulled together.  Don’t ruin the look with a frumpy T-shirt and ill fitting jeans. Stick with clean lines and a T-shirt that hangs well on your body. Jeans should ideally be a dark rinse and fitted with a straight leg.

2. Put it over a fabulous blouse. If you’re searching your closet for something amazing to wear to a birthday dinner or cocktail party, toss your fur shawl over a fantastic blouse. Something in silk is best, but a blouse with a fun print also fits the bill. You’re abiding by a more is more fashion philosophy here, and it makes sense to add a shirt that’s equally opulent. On bottom, go with a pencil skirt or skinny slacks in a dark hue like navy or black to anchor the look.

3. Mix it with other textures. If you’re a fashion-savvy lady, you know that mixing textures is where it’s at for winter. Mix your fur shawl with other textures such as nubby knits, cashmere and fuzzy wools. This mix of textures is a great way to look trendy while sticking with basic colors in fairly basic shapes and styles. Try a black cashmere sweater over houndstooth wide leg pants topped with a fur shawl. This is a sophisticated look that’s wearable for all ages.

Wearing a fur shawl or wrap in these ways makes it easy to wear your fur piece on a regular basis. As with any statement fashion piece, confidence is key. Walk tall and smile to give an ease to fur worn for more casual occasions.

When many women browse fur coats, they aren’t sure where to begin. If it’s

Classic Styles for Fur Coats

your first fur purchase, it’s likely you want a style that’s a classic and will stand the test of time. Fur coats started with classic silhouettes and looks that can fit into any evening or special occasion outwear wardrobe. Knowing what classic styles for fur coats exist helps you decide on the right fur.

Long Length Coats

Long length coats are classic for a fur coat. Long length coats are typically worn at night, mostly over an evening dress or cocktail dress. Long length coats have a dramatic look that’s fit for an opera, wedding or other special occasion event. Long length coats may not be the most practical, but they certainly finish off a look with an upscale edge. Fur coats with longer lengths should be stored at a storage facility at the appropriate temperature since it’s difficult to keep them in good condition at home. Long length fur coats are definitely for those who go out at night often and need something to keep warm for special events.

Mid-Length Coats

Mid-length coats hit between the area under the hips to the knees. This is a great style for anyone making their first fur coat purchase. Mid-length coats are versatile enough to be worn day or night. Depending on what color you choose, you may be able to wear this coat with many things in your wardrobe. Chocolate and camel are the most versatile colors. If you plan on wearing it at night, a black mid-length coat is ideal. Most women tend to wear dark colors at night, so a black mid-length coat is a smart choice. Mid-length coats with an oversized collar create glamour for day and evening. In the day, try your mid-length fur coat with a sweater, jeans and knee high boots.

Jacket with Fur Collar

A jacket with only a fur collar is also a classic look for fur. If it is your first fur jacket or you’re looking for a jacket that has fur without being a full fur coat, a jacket with a fur collar is a wise starting point. This has the glamour and essence we all associate with fur, but it’s more subtle than a coat that’s fur throughout. Jackets with fur collars can be wool, leather or a lightweight woven knit fabric. A jacket with a fur collar is easy to wear for day, but also looks great with a stylish top and jeans for going out at night.

Classic styles for fur coats are the first area to explore when making a fur purchase. Investing in one or two classic styles before branching out into the trendy silhouettes is a way to ensure you’ll enjoy your fur for years to come.

Fur coats are an investment that make a style statement unlike any other.

How to Wear Fur Coats

Wallflowers need not apply when it comes to wearing a fur coat. Fur coats are classic but in recent seasons have become a major trend piece thanks to celebrities. These coats can be worn many different ways. It all depends on the style of the coat and the occasion.

Fur Coats for Day

Can a fur coat be worn during the day? Yes, and it’s seen on celebrities all of the time. Sure, they live a glam lifestyle that lets them wear a fur for no reason, but the everyday woman can implement fur in a small way to make statement. A great way to do this is with a fur vest. Fur vests are easy to wear during transition season and during cool weather. They provide subtle warmth and look great over a long-sleeved T-shirt or a turtleneck. Avoid adding bulk to your shape by opting for a shirt comprised of jersey or cotton, or other thin fabric. Go for a ‘70s look with wide leg jeans or slacks with your fur vest. You can also make it modern by wearing slim jeans that stop just at the ankle. Don’t detract from the vest by wearing another trendy piece. Stick to sleek boots when wearing your fur during the day.

Fur Coats at Night

Evening allows you to glam it up. Fur stoles, shawls and collar pieces are a fabulous way to update your look for evening. Take your favorite little black dress and add a stunning fur collar. Dress up a blazer by draping the same fur collar around it. Use a fur shawl or stole over a cocktail dress to make it dressier. During the cold weather, there’s nothing like a fur coat that hits at the knees to make your evening dress red carpet-worthy. Fur is easier to wear at night for some, but it shouldn’t be reserved for a special occasion. If the weather calls for it or you just feel like adding that something extra, fur works at night.

Wearing fur coats day and night allow you to make the most of the fur in your wardrobe. Remember to shop with intention when buying a fur coat. Having an idea on when and where you’ll wear the coat is the best direction towards buying a coat you’ll use for a lifetime.

There are a number of fur animals whose fur provides beautiful and stylish fur wear. Some of the types of fur that can be enjoyed in fur coats, jackets,

Fur Animals Provide Distinctive Furwear Styles

vest, and other fur wear include:  lippi cat, lynx, fox, mink, rabbit, swakara, chinchilla, calf skin, beaver and many more. Each type of fur has distinctive features and a beauty of its own.

Fox fur comes in the red, blue, and silver varieties and is commonly used as trim for fur apparel due to the striking beauty of this type of fur. Calf skin is a fun choice for fur apparel, and can be worn casually or to a formal event. Calf skin makes a wonderfully warm and soft coat or jacket and is often combined with shear beaver fur lining.

Lynx fur is soft, silky and will add a bold and elegant look to any ensemble. There are a variety of colors of lynx fur including brownish-gold and beige-white. Lynx fur is chic and stylish and makes a fun choice for a vest or jacket.

Lippi cat fur is similar to that of a leopard. It has an exotic look and will draw attention to your wardrobe every time you wear it. The fur is spotted, with patterns of yellow, brown, and gold. It is a beautiful and striking look that goes well with short-collar coats, jackets, or full-length coats.

A beaver jacket is a bold fur choice that will add dimension and flair to your wardrobe. The fur is often red, blonde, or dark brown. Beaver is popular as fur-trim or for a full-length fur garment. The beaver under-fur is very soft and gives coats, vests, and jackets a luxurious feel.

No matter what type of fur animals fur accessory you choose to wear, each offers its own type of distinctive beauty and charm. Fur is a fashionable, fun, and elegant addition to any wardrobe.

For the woman of discerning taste, you can’t go wrong with the classic stylishness of fur coats. Fur is luxurious to the touch and gives class and sophistication to any wardrobe. No matter what your preference in fur

Fur Coats Never Go out of Style

clothing products; vests, jackets, full-length coats, capes, or bombers, fur accessories will keep you warm and stylish at the same time. Fur coats come available in a variety of styles; made with rabbit, mink, fox, and chinchilla furs.

The mink fur coat comes available in bronze and black, sizes small to extra-large. On a wet and cold day, nothing will feel better next to your skin than a rabbit fur liner. With the microfiber raincoat with detachable rabbit fur liner, women can adorn themselves with stylish beauty, while enjoying the luxurious warmth of rabbit fur next to the skin.

This ranch mink coat with fox trim and gold accents is sure to stop people in their tracks as you pass their way. The ranch mink fur coats are really quite stunning and will add a touch of class and elegance to any outfit you choose to pair it with. Mink is rich in color and luxurious to the touch, while the fox trim and gold accents makes this coat one you will wear time and time again. Adorned in this luxurious fur coat, you will become the envy of all your friends!

The full-length Swakara and Chinchilla coat gives the wearer and air of mystique and enchantment. Swakara is the fur of the Nambian sheep and is a favorite of fashion designers for its lustrous sheen and patterns of swirls and curves. There are over two hundred color variations for Swakara. Chinchilla, is a highly sought after fur material that has been traded as far back as the 16^th century. With the classic pattern of the  Swakara and Chinchilla coat, you are wearing a classic fashion fur coat that will never go out of style.

Wearing a fur vest adds that instant fashion-forward look we see on celebrities and fashion insiders. Those in-the-know are reaching for fur coats,

How to Wear a Fur Vest

fur vests and fur accessories for the cold weather season. Wearing a fur vest amps up a simple outfit and can be worn for casual events or a more dressy event.

1. Go sleek and chic with your fur vest. Stick with simple outfits for a fur vest. Think of a button-up top, turtleneck or simple long-sleeved T-shirt when choosing tops to wear under a fur vest. A sleek top and pair of pants are the best bet for choosing an outfit for fur vests. Avoid anything too thick, which can add a bulky shape when worn with a fur vest. Fur vests leave very little room for thick sweaters or layers, since you don’t want to add the appearance of extra weight to your frame.

2. It’s all about proportions. A thick chubby fur vest typically needs to be balanced with height to prevent it from swamping you. Choose a pair of heels or stiletto boots when wearing a chubby fur vest. Fur vests with more volume such as fox and Mongolian fur should also be balanced with high heels.  From a streamlined fur vest with flat hair, such as coyote, you can wear flats, wedges, or shoes with a lower heel. The key is to keep things proportionate. You don’t want to choose a chubby fur vest with flats, which can make you look stumpy or wide.

3. Go for monochrome with a pop of fur. A simple, pulled-together look is a monochromatic outfit with a contrasting fur vest. For those who live in all-black, a caramel or gold-toned fur vest adds a festive touch. If you have a black fur vest, work an all-camel look with a camel turtleneck and matching trousers. This is a look favored by chic women in fur-savvy areas like Aspen and Vail.

If you’re looking for glamour this cold weather season, a fur vest is a great item to add to your wardrobe. It’s a chic accessory that’s easy to wear and travels well. Don’t worry about matching things with your fur vest. Coordinate and keep items simple. Remember that neutrals work best with fur vests, especially when traveling. When you need many items to tie together, a fur vest adds a glamorous element that works day and night.

Fur coats are an instant way to feel glamorous. It can be difficult to wear if you aren’t sure what’s proportionate for your shape or outfit. Fur coats are

How to Wear Fur Coats and Look Chic

easy to wear once you have the basics down on how to make a fur coat work for you.

1. Go for a contrasting color. A contrasting hue is easier to wear when it comes to fur coats. Whether this means contrasting the majority of your wardrobe or your hair color, a contrasting tone creates a fashionable look that won’t get lost in the mix. There’s nothing subtle about wearing fur. Make it count by opting for a contrasting color. If your wardrobe is primarily black and dark colors, opt for a chocolate or blonde fur. For those who stick with winter whites and cream or have light hair, a fur coat in caramel warms up a look.

2. Think about your style. Your personal style dictates what kind of fur coat will suit your lifestyle. If you plan on wearing the coat daily, you want a version that’s low maintenance and easy to wear with many items in your wardrobe. A good every day style for a fur coat is a lightweight version that hits just below the hips. This is chic enough to wear with everything from suits to jeans. For instant glamor, an over sized collar looks beautiful around the face. When choosing a fur coat for evening or dressy events, opt for a coat that hits at mid-thigh or longer. Full length fur coats are very difficult to keep clean. Get the same dramatic effect by opting for a fur that hits at the knees.

3. Don’t pile on the trends. Fur has become stylish again thanks to celebrities wearing fur coats, shawls and vests. Fur is considered trendy for the moment, especially certain types such as coyote or raccoon hair. Instead of wearing a fur coat with other trendy pieces, let it be the focal point of your look. Avoid piling on trends to prevent looking like a fashion victim. Fur coats are chic when the overall look is kept simple and clean, so remember less is more.

Fur coats are a smart investment for the fashion lover who wants a look that’s modern and will stand the test of time. Fur coats are in fashion and available for every lifestyle, from the busy working woman to special nights on the gown.

Public opinion is starting to change about furs. More and more people are making their own decisions about spending their hard-earned money on the luxury of a real fur coat or fur stole. The fashion world is starting to take notice of the increasing popularity of fur, because it can be seen in more and more designer collections.

Dyed furs in bold hues are an increasingly popular trend in women’s fur fashion. The chubby, which is a short, full, fur jacket is also a huge trend showing up on the fashion runways for this fall, and with it’s popularity with celebrities, this style of fur jacket will not be going anywhere anytime soon. Fox fur stoles dyed in bold stripes and colors is a huge trend this summer. For the fall and winter fur hats with ear flaps, long patterned fur coat, and knee-length fur vests have been spotted all over the runways.

Celebrities are embracing the resurgence of fur in fashion, and they are at the forefront of new fur trends. A bold, striped fox fur stole is featured in one of Rihanna’s music videos. Victoria Beckham was recently spotted in a luxurious cropped fox fur coat. Eva Longoria was also seen sporting a beautiful mink fur coat just this past winter. Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen are also big into the fur trend, publicly speaking out for their right to wear, and publicly sporting many of the latest fur fashion trends. Debra Messing was spotted wearing a rather luxe fur vest during New York Fashion week. Paris Hilton paired a fur stole with a pretty dress on the red carpet. Kate Moss has been spotted several places in London recently sporting different fur vests. And the list of celebrities in fur just goes on and on. Fur is clearly a fashion trend that won’t be going away anytime in the near future!

For the summer, fur stoles were showcased by designer labels; the fur stole was dubbed the must-have fur fashion accessory for the summer since it appeared in so many designer collections. Formalwear glammed up by a fur wrap, a cross body fur stole, or a bold-hued fur coat is another popular fur trend this summer. Fur also has a big presence the runways for this fall. Some designers upped the glam factor by pairing an extravagant fur hat with a long fur coat. Others paired a monochromatic outfit with a same-colored fur coat for a glamorous, old Hollywood look on the runway. Several also showcased fabulous crimson chubby fur coats in their collections.

Fur vests paired with simple outfits, or even paired jeans to dress them up and bold colored fur coats and fur stoles are trends that pop up in both summer and fall fur fashion trends. Using fur accessories to glam up an outfit seems to be one of the most popular uses for women’s fur coats, fur hats, fur stoles, and fur vests in both summer and fall. Designers are also using furs in a retro, 1940’s and 1950’s way. Many of the colors, simple lines, tailored outfits, jackets, and dresses that are being showcased are reminiscent of that era.

The most important things about the summer to fall transition for women’s furs are bold color, glamour, and elegant style can all be obtained through adding fur accessories. Whether it’s a fur coat, a fur stole, a fur vest, or a fur hat, they all play a role in summer and fall fashion. Summer fashion relied on smaller, bolder pieces, such as fur vests, fur stoles, and fur wraps used to punch-up outfits, or to glam-up formalwear. However, the fall trends use longer, larger fur coats, long, knee-length, fur vests, large, bold fur hats, bold fur colors and patterns, and multiple fur pieces in one ensemble to add a sense of style, glamour, and elegance to every outfit. Fur was a big influence in this year’s summer fashions, but it’s definitely an even bigger influence in women’s fashion this fall!