Fur coats and sustainability: What you should know

The question of sustainability in fashion increasingly applies to fur too. We looked at this topic from several angles so you can decide based on facts.

Sustainability in fashion is increasingly relevant to fur. While some see real fur as a natural, long-lasting sustainable material, others point to ethical and environmental questions around its production. We looked at this topic from several angles so you can decide based on facts.

Natural material vs. synthetic alternative

One of the main arguments in favour of real fur is its biodegradability. Unlike faux fur, which is made from synthetic oil-based fibres (such as acrylic or polyester), real fur naturally decomposes at the end of its life.

However, faux fur has its own environmental cost — during washing and wear it releases microplastics that enter waterways and eventually the oceans. This problem affects much of the synthetic textile industry, not just faux fur.

Lifespan and "slow fashion"

Quality real fur, with proper care, lasts for decades — a factor often underestimated in sustainability discussions. Compared to quickly wearing synthetic alternatives, a fur piece is more of a long-term investment than a seasonal purchase — a principle in line with the idea of "slow fashion": buy fewer but better-quality pieces that last.

Ethical questions under discussion

It is important to be transparent about the other side of the topic. The production of real fur has long been criticised by animal welfare organisations, which point to the conditions of breeding and processing animals in some parts of the supply chain. That is why several countries and fashion houses have tightened standards in recent years or switched entirely to alternatives.

On the other hand, industry advocates point out that responsible farms are subject to certifications (such as animal welfare standards) and that fur is a by-product of animal production in many regions, not its primary purpose.

These are questions without simple answers — and it is perfectly okay to have your own opinion on them.

What can you do as a customer?

If sustainability matters to you, it is worth focusing on the following when choosing a fur piece:

Material origin — ask the seller where the fur comes from and what certifications it meets.

Quality of processing — better-processed fur lasts longer, reducing the need for frequent replacement.

Care — proper maintenance (cleaning, storage) extends the life of the piece and reduces its overall environmental impact.

Recycled or vintage pieces — reusing older fur products is one of the most sustainable options available.

Summary

The question of whether real fur is "sustainable" has no clear answer — it depends on the origin of the material, the processing method, and how long you actually wear the piece. What remains a fact, however, is that quality fur is biodegradable and, with good care, lasts much longer than most synthetic alternatives. The most important thing is to make informed decisions and choose pieces you can stand behind.

Do you have questions about the origin or processing of our fur products? Write to us via the contact form — we will be happy to provide you with all the information.