Fur coats have remained a strong trend in 2025 and are expected to continue in 2026. Historically, fur has symbolized status, evolving from basic survival clothing to symbols of royalty and Hollywood glamour throughout the 20th century. In the early 1900s, fur shifted from basic linings to luxury items like large collars and full-length fox jackets, gaining cultural significance by the 1950s as a mark of sophistication. However, starting in the late 1980s, the industry experienced a sharp decline due to intense animal-rights protests and evolving societal views that viewed fur as cruel rather than fashionable. By the 2010s, many cities and luxury brands such as Gucci and Prada had banned fur, diminishing its prominence in fashion.
The resurgence in 2025, rejecting “quiet luxury,” is driven by maximalist trends like the viral ‘mob wife aesthetic.’ Mainly fueled by Gen Z and Millennials, this revival is driven by increased interest in fur through vintage and secondhand markets, viewing it as a sustainable “slow fashion” alternative that avoids new animal farming and microplastic pollution from synthetic faux-fur materials. Brands such as Fendi and Louis Vuitton, along with celebrities like Ice Spice and Rihanna, have positioned fur as a symbol of power and style. Currently, the trend blends nostalgia for the early 2000s with contemporary values, prioritizing craftsmanship and heirloom quality over fast fashion cycles.
How It’s Worn:
• Pair simple outfits, such as turtlenecks and jeans, for a more elevated look.
• Worn over outerwear, such as trenches, to add extra flair.
• As heirloom pieces, they are proudly worn for warmth and style.
Essentially, the real fur trend is intricate, combining historical luxury with contemporary ethical issues, often thriving in the vintage market and among statement fashion pieces.
The Verdict for 2026
Real fur is unlikely to vanish entirely but is gradually shifting from mainstream luxury to a niche market. Starting September 2026, New York Fashion Week will ban real animal fur in its runway shows. While Vogue and other major fashion events are reducing the number of new fur collections, interest in vintage and creatively reimagined fur is expected to remain through 2026 as consumers increasingly adopt “circular” fashion. The Manhattan Vintage Show, New York City’s leading large-scale vintage fashion event, is scheduled for January 31st to February 1st for the upcoming NYC Winter show. It will showcase vintage fur. The event is expected to sell out, as all their shows do, indicating continued strong interest in fur despite the changing landscape. Ultimately, the debate continues as consumers weigh the longevity and sustainability claims of vintage fur against the animal-welfare concerns that have led many brands and cities to go fur-free.
Until next time, Happy Thrifting!
ToniOnThrifting 