As people’s lifestyles and priorities change, we are constantly inventing new alternatives for things. For example, foods like “impossible” meat and vegan cheese have grown to be so popular that you can find them at tons of restaurants and have a delicious vegan meal.
This movement of veganism isn’t just for kicks—people who consume a vegan diet can not only expect fewer health complications but can state with pride that they are helping the environment by reducing animal cruelty and air pollution.
While going vegan is something semi-new to us, faux fur has been on the market for almost one hundred years now.
How Did Faux Fur Start?
At the start, faux fur wasn’t exactly how it is now. Faux fur used to be created with a material called pile fabric. The method used to make pile fabric is also what’s used to make products like corduroy or velvet. Back in the 1920s, there was even a tax on the new textile because it was in such high demand during wartime.
Just like in any other industry, when the newest trend begins, everyone must have what everyone else has. When it comes to fashion, people often want to be both trendsetters and trend followers. Trendsetters get credit for being the brave risk-takers, and trend followers get credit for being the ones who are stylish and “in the know.” Walking down the street in faux fur absolutely gave a woman extra status from both of these aspects.
There were two challenges when it came to the production of faux fur. First, the designer had to make it look authentic. Next, the designer had to make it feel authentic. They began to toy with making things like faux leopard, faux mink, and even faux pony.
The War On Animal Rights
Flash forward to the 1960s, when the counterculture was on the rise. The first issue that animal-rights activists decided to protest was the abuse of endangered species. Over time, this grew to be not just a concern of conservation but a concern for the well-being of all animals. Many celebrities, including Doris Day and Mary Tyler Moore, spoke out on these issues.
A transition was in effect. Faux fur became more and more desirable as popular brands and iconic stars were openly refusing to use or be associated with authentic fur. Calvin Klein made it known they’d no longer be using real fur. Models Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford posed nude next to the phrase “I’d rather be naked than wear fur.”
New platforms stated that the young girls of the world were no longer dreaming of fur coats like their mothers did when they were children.
In many cases, you could tell what someone’s political beliefs were just by their coats, as faux fur ones would be pinned with animal-rights themed badges. Animal-rights organizations would donate faux fur pieces to sponsored fashion shows. The movement worked tirelessly to make a point throughout the 20th century.
Faux Fur Today
So what’s the deal today, you ask? Faux fur is still going strong as a winter fashion staple. Designers have become so skilled at manufacturing faux fur that it is almost impossible to tell the difference, especially for those of us with untrained eyes.
The difference about today’s faux fur market? It isn’t only used in fashion. Faux fur is used to make all types of products—and rugs, blankets, and comfy furniture are only some of them.
How Faux Fur Is Used To Make Furniture
Faux fur is a great material to snuggle up with. Some of the furniture we spend thousands of dollars on are stiff and unpleasant. We can assure you that our NEST Chairs are some of the softest things you’ll ever lounge on. We use a high-end fabric we like to call bunny fur—faux bunny fur, of course. With tons of back, neck, and head support, our furniture is definitely bound to give you a sense of bliss.
We choose to use faux fur because we at CordaRoy’s do not tolerate animal cruelty. In a time where safe and harmless alternatives are available, why not take advantage of them whenever possible?
Is Faux Fur Good For The Environment?
Great question. Faux fur is much better for the environment than real fur. Here’s how:
As previously stated, faux fur does not require any involvement with animals.
- When we farm animals for their fur, we are increasing the level of carbon-dioxide emissions. In addition, the number one reason for water contamination in the United States is agriculture. Lastly, the process of dyeing the fur they produce requires mass amounts of toxic chemicals.
- PETA has claimed that the production of one kilogram of mink harms the environment noticeably more than the production of one kilogram of faux fur in 17 out of 18 environmental categories.
- Faux fur is easier to clean and maintain than authentic fur. Most items can be hand washed or machine washed with a gentle cycle setting.
One of the reasons our customers love our chairs so much is because they’re luxurious but easy! When you feel it’s time to wash your chair, simply remove the pillow from the outer layer and machine wash the cover. We also offer chair covers separately, so you don’t have to rush when washing the one that’s dirty.
Spaces That Could Use Some Faux Fur
Faux fur gives as much of a sense of status as authentic fur. That’s why putting faux fur furniture in any space is a great idea. There’s no doubt you’ll make use of it often, and any guests you invite over will wish their home was as cozy as yours!
We’ve put together a list of spaces that could benefit from some faux fur love:
- The Family Room
This one’s really a no-brainer. When the family gets together for movie night, everyone wants the best seat in the house. Faux fur is soft, stylish, and easy to clean! (Just in case someone gets spooked by a jumpscare and popcorn flies everywhere.)
- The She Shed
She Sheds are the latest and greatest space for any woman looking for a moment’s peace. The best way to furnish a She Shed without spending thousands of dollars is faux fur furniture! Sit back, relax, and enjoy a cocktail and your favorite show.
While we can’t promise the rest of the family won’t break the door down to have their share of the She Shed, we can guarantee the short escape you do get will be the most comfortable one yet.
- Reading Corner
For all you bookworms out there, this is the piece of furniture for you. Whether you have a little corner of the house that you read in or an entire study with an extensive library, we both know it’s time you treat yourself to a comfier seat.
Sitting on an old rocking chair or dusty armchair can take you right out of the story you’re reading. Sink deeper into the story as you sink deeper into a NEST Chair.
- Teenager’s Bedroom
Think back to your teenage years. A lot of teenagers spend time wishing their bedrooms were cooler. Upgrade your kid’s space with the most plush furniture out there! This will make their room feel less drab and homier. Who wouldn’t want to do their homework in a chair that feels like bunny fur heaven?
When kids become teens, they seek independence. Their personalities are evolving, and their preferences are changing. Let them feel a little more adult by adding some luxe but simple furniture to their bedroom.
In Summary
Faux fur has come a long way in the last hundred years or so. All sorts of designers are working hard each and every day to discover the best materials for fashion, furniture, and many other kinds of products.
Faux fur has been proven to be less harmful to the environment than any form of authentic fur—and it’s also quite easy to maintain for many years. Faux fur is affordable, beautiful, and very soft to the touch, so treat yourself and your family to some lovely new furniture. Kiss the outdated leather and mink rug goodbye! Shopping cruelty-free is one of the most admirable things you can do in today’s world.
Sources:
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/history-faux-fur-180953984/ https://www.teenvogue.com/story/faux-fur-real-fur-which-is-more-sustainable https://www.cedelft.eu/index.php?/publicatie/the_environmental_impact_of_mink_fur_production/1131
