Fur has been a staple in the fashion industry since its beginnings, but the last few fall and winter seasons have seen designers significantly ramp up their use of it. And with that use has come much criticism of the industry for showing off its love of animal pelts. Maybe the reproaches finally got through to some designers, because this fall many replaced their mink with faux. That’s right: Fake fur. But if you’re expecting this season’s faux pieces to have that matted dog look of a few years ago, think again; faux has come a long way, and today’s versions have a lush, soft texture. Here, we’ve rounded up our favorite faux pieces that will have you setting aside real fur once and for all.


Denver-based designer Dana Schoonover is all about bringing upbeat color and vibrant prints into women’s lives with her line Never A Wallflower. We like that her versatile, stylish pieces can be worn from daytime through evening hours. Her faux vest is a perfect choice for wearing in the city over a chic sweater dress or paired with jeans and a chunky turtleneck in Vail. $194, neverawallflower.com

Leave it to artsy Antwerp designer Dries Van Noten to dream up a faux fur crop jacket in vivid colors and with an asymmetric drape to create a scarf. This is the statement faux piece of the season. $1,130, Max, 264 Detroit St., 303-321-4949, maxclothing.com

Oversize coats and jackets are totally on-trend right now (it’s part of that iconic 1980s look that’s made a comeback). Marimekko’s fluffy Teddy Bear version will keep you toasty all winter. $995, Marimekko.com

Keep fur as an accent rather than a full statement piece with this sweater with faux cuffs. $54, Haille Grace, Larimer Square, 1421 Larimer St., 303-698-2323, haileegrace.com

Looking for a more mid-weight piece? This mock neck faux fur poncho has been sewn in a chic V-pattern, giving this casual piece a polished feel. $148, available online, J.McLaughlin, 2701 E. Third Ave., 303-209-0019, jmclaughlin.com

Pick up on the denim trend with Mother’s Furry Drifter jean jacket with faux fur lining. Bonus: The lining is removable, making this piece wearable any time of year. $485, Blush, Larimer Square, 1411 Larimer St., 303-399-7779, shop-blush.com

Oversized hoop earrings are a major happening in statement jewelry. Accessory designer Migonne Gavigan’s Pom Pom Hoop earrings adds a touch of fur to the trend. $75, MignonneGavigan.com

For the girl with a rock n’ roll attitude, this military vest with faux fur lining by MM Vintage strikes just the right vibe. Think of it as an updated take on Jimmi Hendrix’s interpretation of a classic Hussar jacket. $108. Midnight Rambler, 2438 W. 44th Ave., 303-507-9248, midnight-rambler-boutique.shoplightspeed.com