CASHMERE CAPE WITH FOX TRIM
There is nothing that can replace the timeless elegance, luxurious feel, and sheer sophistication of a genuine fur coat. Yet throughout the years, the stigma of wearing this incomparable material has resulted in some fur-owners shelving their beloved coats, stoles, and other fur-lined fashions.
Vintage fur offers a fun, classic and more humane alternative to fur lovers who want to enjoy the exquisite feel of their favorite pelt without contributing to the harm of an animal. By buying vintage fur, you are giving new purpose to a classic fashion. Vintage fur is an investment you can feel good about, but it is still an investment. If you buy vintage fur, you will need to find someone familiar with older furs, who can help you keep it looking luxurious and elegant.
When you buy vintage fur, it’s important to care for it as though it’s new. To do this, you will need to build a relationship with a local furrier. Knowing how to care for your vintage fur will help extend the life of your special garment and ensure years of joy and luxurious wear.
Fur Care Basics
Years of wear or improper storage can make vintage fur garments delicate and particularly vulnerable to future damage. Here are some essential fur care tips and advice to help you maintain your vintage fur fashions:
Storage
*Ideally, your vintage fur should be kept in cold storage by a reputable furrier. These fur experts specialize in fur repair, care and maintenance. Springtime is a particularly important time to place your vintage fur in cold storage, since humidity, heat and moths can deteriorate the garment.
*If storing your vintage fur in your own closet, make sure it has enough space to hang comfortably.
*Never store your vintage fur in a plastic bag; the delicate material requires proper air circulation.
Maintenance
*Avoid prolonged periods of sitting while wearing your vintage fur, which can lead to signs of wear and potentially cause damage.
*Limit the amount of time you expose your vintage fur to the strain of purse and shoulder straps, which can also take a toll on your garment.
*Seek the expertise of a furrier for the annual cleaning conditioning of your vintage fur. Having your vintage fur professionally cleaned will help eliminate unwanted odor. The conditioning process will help restore oils that are essential to the longevity of your vintage fur.
*Never use heat to dry your vintage fur. If your garment becomes wet, simply shake off the excess water and let it dry naturally. If the liquid is a substance like wine or coffee, take your vintage fur to a furrier for professional cleaning as soon as possible.
Fur Repair
*Take your vintage fur to a furrier as soon as you detect a tear, rip or other damage. Delaying the fur repair process can contribute to extensive damage. In addition, attempts to repair the garment yourself may actually worsen the damage and require even costlier repairs.
*Schedule yearly tightening of buttons and other enclosures on your vintage fur fashion by a trusted furrier. This practice will also allow the furrier to review your garment for any tears that may be undetectable to the untrained eye.