History of Fur

A photo of a brown fur

Fur has a long history in fashion. From what is estimated, it is one of the oldest forms of clothing used by humans to cover the body. The first people to use it are believed to be hominids who migrated from Africa. Thanks to the advances in techniques and technologies, we can say that fur has not only a long and celebrated history but also a long and sustainable future.

Here, we are pleased to show you details about this garment!

Fur Represents Luxury

Many see the fur as a luxury accessory, which allows us to cover and protect ourselves against the ravages of cold weather.

We know that the term "fur" refers mainly to animal coats, the fashion shows of these pieces are some of the most luxurious on the world catwalks.

History of Fur and Use

The history of fur in fashion goes back a long way. It is believed to be one of the first materials used as clothing, although the exact date is still debated. According to historians, several hominid species wore fur as clothing, including Homo Sapiens and Neanderthals.

Between prehistory and its men "dressed in animal skins" and the contemporary Western world with its beautiful ladies of "high" society covered in luxurious furs, there was a time and a society where fur was an essential and almost standard garment: the medieval West.

To look at the paintings of the thirteenth and fifteenth centuries, to read the literature of the late Middle Ages, one could suspect it. Historians of medieval economics encountered furs in the great trading places and merchants' account books. Social and institutional historians found the fur mentioned in sumptuary laws.

Fur continued to be used from that moment to the present around the world, especially in the coldest and most temperate climates, due to their ability to maintain body heat and durability since, with proper maintenance, they could last a lifetime.

From the time of the first European settlements to the development of more modern clothing alternatives, coats made of this material were very popular to protect against the harsh winters. The emergence of synthetic materials to make insulating clothing much cheaper led to the belief that fur would go out of style, but it did not.

The indigenous and native people still use fur and follow the traditions rooted in their different tribes. Members of the Inuit communities, Eskimo peoples of the Arctic, use fur as an essential part of their clothing. It is also part of traditional clothing in different countries, such as Russia and Japan. The skins can be dyed in different colors or patterns, in some cases to simulate camouflage with exotic animals.

Types of Fur

There are different types of fur for coats and other accessories. Some are more expensive than others, and among these, some details and colors differentiate them. Among them are sable, lynx, fox, mink rex, beaver, and chinchilla, among others.

Indeed, fur has a long history in fashion. Fur is still fashionable today for both men and women. It never goes out of style. Due to the value of fur which increases over time, it is important to keep them protected with climate-controlled storage. Furs should be protected just like any other investment.

If you want to maintain the beauty and luster of your fur, consider storing it in a reliable on-site security vault, like Alan Furs or Douglas Furs. Our UL Certified vaults will protect your fur, maintaining its original softness and color and protecting it from oxidation, infestation or degradation. Store your fur in our cold storage vault and have the peace of mind for your garment during warm temperatures.