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Blackglama Mink with Russian Sable
Fur Coats
Learn how to tell the difference between real and faux furs.

Some individuals want to make sure the furs they wear are genuine furs, while others prefer faux fur. However, sometimes it can be difficult to tell the difference between the two. If you are determined to purchase real furs, it is important to ensure that you know how to tell the difference to avoid spending too much for a faux fur coat or other item you didn’t want because it isn’t genuine.

Check the Labels

Just like any other item of clothing you buy, fur coats come with tags sewn into the seams inside. Make sure you look for the tag and read it carefully. Most faux furs will carry a designer or store label that will set it apart from real furs. However, be careful because a few brands actually make items with both real and faux fur. A label should be a supplement to the other clues to ensure you have a real fur coat on your hands.

Examine the Lining

The lining of a fur coat is a tell-tale sign that you are purchasing a real fur instead of a faux fur. Real fur coats are pieced together in strips and pieces to create the full fur coat. Check the lining to ensure that you see these patterns. If the lining is in one piece or doesn’t feature a patchwork type pattern, chances are you are dealing with faux furs. Some types of fur, such as lamb and goat, may be sewn in larger pieces, but the lining will still feel like real leather.

Feel the Fur

Feeling the fur can provide you with a clear picture as to whether you are purchasing a real fur coat. Real fur is often soft to the touch and falls into a sleek line when brushed with your hand. It will feel similar to petting a cat. When you touch the faux fur, on the other hand, it will feel rough to the touch and can even be sticky when it is humid outside. It also feels more like petting a stuffed animal.

The Burn Test

You certainly don’t want to expose real fur coats to an open flame or source of heat. However, the burn test can be a great way to separate real from fake furs. To perform this test, you must clip a small amount of fur from an unnoticeable spot on the coat. Two to three strands is all you need. When you expose faux fur to an open flame, it will melt and give off a distinctive plastic odor. If the fur is real, it will smell like burnt hair and will not burn as easily.

Determining whether you are looking at real fur coats or faux fur, it is essential to learn what you should look for. If you can see the furs in person, it is easy to determine whether they are real or fake as long as you know how to check. Checking the label and lining can provide you with valuable information. Feeling the fur and conducting the burn test will help you make a final determination.

If you are looking for the best selection of real fur coats, contact us. We carry a great selection of real furs.