Do you know how to tell the difference between faux and real fur coats?
Fur coats remain some of the most desired pieces of clothing in the world of high fashion. Whether you admire the glamorous silhouettes on international runways or prefer casual everyday luxury, the feeling of genuine warmth is unmatched. However, modern technology allows retailers to create convincing imitations. Knowing the difference between faux and real fur coats is essential to protect your investment.
Why Authenticity Matters in Luxury Fashion
Many retailers sell expensive faux fur coats and attempt to pass them off as premium natural products. While synthetic options have improved visually, they lack the thermal properties and durability of the real thing. Natural fur has been used for millennia because it provides superior insulation. Therefore, understanding what you are buying ensures you get the luxury experience you deserve.
5 Practical Tests to Spot the Difference Between Faux and Real Fur Coats
1. The Burn Test: Scent and Residue
If you can spare a few tiny fibers, the burn test is the most foolproof method. Simply singe a few hairs with a lighter. Natural fur smells like burnt human hair and turns into a fine ash. In contrast, faux fur coats smell like melted plastic. Furthermore, the synthetic fibers will curl into hard, plastic-like beads.
2. The Pin Test: Checking the Base Material
Try sticking a pin through the base of the garment. If you are dealing with real fur coats, pushing the pin through will be difficult. This is because the hair grows from a tough leather hide. If the pin slides through with zero resistance, the garment is likely synthetic with a knitted fabric base.
Explore our full collection of natural fur coats to see the quality of authentic leather backing.
3. Label Scrutiny and Composition
Always check the composition specifications, especially when shopping online. Some retailers avoid mentioning the specific material because the fur is a blend of natural and cheap synthetic fibers. Authentic brands will always proudly state “100% Natural Fur” or specify the animal origin.
4. Price Points vs. Manufacturer Value
Usually, a natural coat is significantly more expensive than a synthetic one. However, price alone isn’t always a guarantee, as some retailers overcharge for plastic. At A&A Vesa, we offer our products at factory prices. By shipping directly from our workshop to your home, we provide authentic luxury without the middleman markup.
5. Hand-Feel and Visual Texture
Natural fur feels exceptionally soft and consists of several layers, including a dense underwool and longer guard hairs. Synthetic fur often feels “plasticky” or overly uniform. When you check a real shearling jacket, for example, you will notice the wool is firmly attached to the skin, not glued to a mesh.
Browse our premium real shearling jacket category for a masterclass in texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the main difference between faux and real fur coats? The main difference lies in the base material; real fur grows from leather (skin), while faux fur is attached to a synthetic fabric or plastic mesh.
2. Does real fur smell different when wet? Yes, natural fur has a mild, organic scent when damp, similar to wool. Synthetic fur has no scent or may smell faintly of chemicals.
3. Is a real shearling jacket warmer than a faux one? Absolutely. Natural shearling offers superior breathability and thermal regulation, whereas synthetic versions often trap moisture and cause overheating.
4. Can I trust the “Feel Test” alone? While helpful, it isn’t perfect. High-end faux fur can be very soft. Always combine the feel test with the pin test or burn test for accuracy.
5. How do I know if a fur coat is a blend? Check the internal labels for percentages. If the label mentions polyester or acrylic mixed with fur, it is not a 100% natural garment.
6. Why choose A&A Vesa for authentic fur? We are a direct manufacturer. We guarantee 100% natural materials and provide transparency from our factory to your wardrobe.
