Fur Coats

Various types of animal fur have been worn for hundreds of thousands of years, making it possibly one of the oldest materials used in clothing. In areas with cold climates, fur was a popular material for coats on account of its warmth and resistance to the elements. Fur has also been a symbol of wealth and luxury, with certain types of fur - e.g. sable and mink - being coveted over others for their higher quality and appearance. Up until the 1960s, fur coats were a must-have ladies fashion statement, with designer creations being stocked by renowned department stores worldwide including Bloomingdale's, Macy's and Harrods. Since the mid to the late 20th century, controversy has surrounded the ethics of real fur coats and other clothing. As a result, many fashion lovers today opt for vintage or faux fur coats.