Fur is truly a timeless element in fashion. As trends have come and gone over the years, it has remained a classic that never goes out of style.

Fur has become more versatile and appears in many different items of clothing from a full-length coat to a pair of fur-trimmed gloves. Most recently, fur or fur-trimmed accessories have become increasingly popular. Fur-trimmed hats, scarves, gloves and even handbags are some of the latest accessories for winter.

Adding just a touch of fur to a wardrobe piece will add instant glamour and richness.

The large-shoulder padded coats of the 1980s have taken on new forms in modern luxury. Many of today’s trendsetters are wearing capelets, wraps and cropped jackets to dress up their favorite pair of designer denim. Capelets can come in fur and fabric combinations, knitted, and shearling designs. The short, shaped jacket puts a modern spin on an old classic.

The color palette of furs has expanded beyond their natural hues. While black — 
everyone’s confidence color — is still the favorite, a variety of eye-catching colors have hit the scene. Earth tones, pastels, winter white and animal prints are all the rage.

Laser cutting and carving on mink, sheared beaver, rabbit and shearlings is a recent trend that has hit the runways. The innovative technique creates the appearance of faux animal prints or intricate floral patterns.

Men are now wearing fur more than ever. The men’s market has experienced a boom in the last few years. Most in demand are shearlings and fur-lined garments. Designs have evolved to more conservative and sleek looks for the professional metropolitan male.

As the designs of fur garments have continually changed, so has the technology. Today, furs are more lightweight and supple, allowing them to be worn anywhere — day or night, for work or for play.

This winter, trendsetters can anticipate seeing touches of fur everywhere from high-end resorts and clubs across the country to local fashion destinations in the Short North and Easton.


Robert Eisenbach is president of Robert Scott Furs, formerly Leakas Furs. He has over 30 years of experience as a furrier. Since 1947, Robert Scott Furs has been the largest independent luxury garment retailer in Ohio. For more information visit, www.robertscottfurs.com or call (614) 481-1895.