Earlier this year, Donatella Versace proclaimed, “Fur? I’m out of that. I don’t want to kill animals to make fashion. It doesn’t feel right.” And other designers followed suit: Gucci, Tom Ford, and Givenchy have all vowed to no longer use real fur, while brands like Prada, Stella McCartney, Vivienne Westwood, and Anna Sui have long adopted a no-fur policy.
In fact, according to the Fur Free Retailer list, the leading organization that connects fur-free companies to consumers seeking ethical goods, you can shop for fur-free clothing and accessories at more than 900 global retailers (you can check out the entire list here).
But that doesn’t mean you have to bid adieu to quality products that keep you warm and cozy once cold weather strikes. Companies like Gucci and Versace, known for their opulent design aesthetics—of which furs have always been a huge part—are now investing in new technologies and textile research to find the best substitutes that both look and feel like the real thing.
So this fall, bundle up in an animal-friendly piece of outerwear and pair it with a stylish fur-free accessory to show your support and take a stand against animal cruelty. Here, we rounded up 10 of the chicest fur alternatives for next season.
Opening Ceremony
New York-based brand Opening Ceremony is known for its collaborations with up-and-coming designers and edgy design aesthetic. This cool jacket also proves that the label doesn’t forgo functionality.
The “Insomniac” is a reversible jacket that can be worn two ways. Its houndstooth side is reminiscent of the brand’s cool-style philosophy, with faux shearling trims along the patch pockets, hemline, shoulders, and sleeves. The reverse side strikes a more classic look—it has a faux shearling exterior and toggle front closure.
Shop: $625
Kenzo
Kenzo’s designers Humberto Leon and Carol Lim (who are also founders of Opening Ceremony) presented a fall 2018/2019 collection full of bold prints and vibrant hues. One of the most beautiful looks on the runway featured this floral faux-fur cocoon coat styled with knee-high boots and a turtleneck dress in a matching print.
The coat features notch lapels, waist flap pockets, and a double-breasted button-front. Make no mistake—this piece is a total showstopper and will definitely stand out in the fall among a sea of dark-hued outerwear.
Shop: $830
Stella McCartney
Since its founding in 2001, Stella McCartney has prided itself for being a “vegetarian brand” that never uses feathers, skin, fur, or leather in any of its clothing or accessories. But that doesn’t mean that its products look any less luxurious.
This patchwork vest, for example, is made from two types of acrylic and modacrylic fur that could easily be mistaken for the real thing. The oversized shawl collar and relaxed fit give it a decidedly boho chic vibe while keeping you cozy and warm.
Shop: $1,925
Heurueh
New York label Heurueh is all about sustainability and cruelty-free fashion. Inspired by the diverse neighborhoods and people of the Big Apple, the brand’s designs are colorful, cool, and, most of all, modern.
This faux patchwork stole is made from 100 percent polyester and consists of faux shearling, Mongolian faux fur, and faux rabbit. Wear it under a jacket for added warmth or style it with a t-shirt and jeans for a cool downtown chic look.
Shop: $128
Tom Ford
Most luxury brands have signature bag designs. For Hermès, it’s the Birkin, Chanel has its quilted flap bag, and for Tom Ford, it’s the Natalia—a classic rectangular shaped piece distinguished by its chunky gold twist-lock fastening and chain strap.
For this fall, the designer updated his iconic style in soft pink faux fur. This Italian-made mini shoulder bag is the perfect nighttime accessory that will fit all of your essentials such as a phone, keys, and a wallet.
Shop: $1,850
Burberry
Earlier this year, Burberry announced it is reviewing its use of fur. (Rumor has it that Meghan Markle, who is known for disliking fur, joining the royal family inspired the British heritage brand's decision.) But the truth is that Burberry already has a history of using luxury fur alternatives in its collections, and one example is this gorgeous cape.
The fuzzy “Whalton” has an oversized silhouette with the brand’s signature beige check lining. The deep navy hue is perfect for fall. And while it has a relatively classic cut, details such as the cap sleeves and patch pockets add to its modern allure. Style it with a long-sleeve patterned maxi dress and knee-high boots for a boho-inspired look.
Shop: $1,350
Gucci
Gucci’s spring/summer 2018 collection marked a new beginning for the Italian brand. It eliminated the use of all real fur in its products and promised to “continue to innovate and meet design challenges to replicate the look of fur.” And it’s obvious that, so far, they’ve been quite successful at it.
This gorgeous pair of slippers—a style that has become emblematic for the brand—is the epitome of luxurious sustainability. Crafted from black leather and faux fur (specifically created to resemble mink fur), the pair features quilted satin lining. Each is made in Italy by the brand’s artisans with the same high-quality materials used for all Gucci products.
Shop: $790
Fear of God
Shearling is often used as lining for fall and winter clothing because it’s super soft and warm, it’s often made from sheep or lambskin—which is why some brands are looking for more animal-friendly alternatives.
LA streetwear brand Fear of God—a favorite of Kanye West and Justin Bieber—has found a sustainable fabric that imitates those qualities and look but is produced from a blend of acrylic, wool, and alpaca, and is just as luxurious. This hooded bomber jacket is composed of tan cotton corduroy and insulated with a layer of faux shearling for added warmth during the chilly months. The boxy cut gives you plenty of room to wear a thick sweater underneath, if you’d like to take this bomber from fall to winter.
Shop: $1,395
Nobis
Leave it to Canadians to create the best (and warmest) accessories for cold weather. Canadian luxury outerwear brand Nobis takes innovative performance textiles and combines them with classic design to create clothing and accessories for the global traveler who’s always on the move.
Because of its commitment to sustainability and ethically-sourced fabrics, Nobis has reinvented its Fargo hat in grey jersey and black faux fur-lining. Bundle up in the cold weather with this style that features an adjustable toggle at the back as well as adjustable earflaps for a custom fit.
Shop: $100
66° North
This Icelandic brand was created almost 100 years ago and, at the time, was in the business of making protective clothing for Icelandic fishermen and workers braving the North Atlantic cold. And while 66° North has remained true to its original clientele (yes, they still make workwear clothing), the brand has entered the modern age by offering cool and practical designs for the outdoorsy types.
Snaefell is their first vegan parka made with no leather, down, or real fur. It features a classic polar explorer hood with detachable faux fur trim, plenty of front and interior pockets, a waist drawcord for a custom fit, and ribbed inner sleeves. And since it’s meant to be worn in the harsh Icelandic environment, you can rest assured that it’s completely waterproof.
