Create A Fur Wrap: Winter Wedding Style

A fur wrap is an essential accessory for brides and bridesmaids at winter weddings. Faux fur is a popular choice, as it is stylish, easy to clean, and animal-friendly. When making a fur wrap, consider the type of fabric, colour, and length. Etsy and Amazon offer a wide range of options, from full-length cloaks to shoulder-covering shawls, in various colours including white, ivory, grey, and pink. These can be purchased or used as inspiration for DIY projects.

Choosing faux fur over real fur

Faux fur is a man-made fabric designed to mimic the appearance and texture of real fur. It is made from synthetic materials such as polyester or modacrylic and can be manufactured in a wide range of colours and styles. Faux fur is a popular choice for those who want the look and feel of fur without the associated ethical concerns. Here are some reasons why you may choose faux fur over real fur for your winter wedding wrap:

• Animal Welfare: Real fur is obtained from animal pelts, predominantly from animals like minks, foxes, rabbits, and chinchillas. The process of farming and killing animals for their fur is often considered inhumane and unethical. By choosing faux fur, you can avoid contributing to animal cruelty and support more sustainable and ethical practices.
• Environmental Impact: The production and use of real fur can have negative environmental consequences. Fur farming contributes to environmental issues such as toxic waste, and the process of tanning and treating animal pelts can involve the use of harmful chemicals. Faux fur, on the other hand, is created from synthetic materials that may have a lower environmental impact, especially if made from recycled sources.
• Affordability: Real fur is typically more expensive than faux fur. This is because real fur is considered a luxury item and often carries a higher price tag. Faux fur, being synthetic, is generally more affordable and accessible to a wider range of consumers.
• Maintenance and Durability: Real fur requires specialised care and maintenance to ensure its longevity. It needs to be professionally cleaned and stored properly to maintain its condition. Faux fur, on the other hand, is usually easier to care for and may be machine washable, depending on the specific fabric and manufacturer's instructions. However, real fur can be more durable and long-lasting if properly cared for.
• Versatility: Faux fur offers a wider range of styles, colours, and patterns compared to real fur. It can be dyed and printed in various colours and designed with unique textures and eye-catching prints. This versatility allows you to find a faux fur wrap that perfectly matches your wedding outfit and personal style.
• Allergies: For individuals with allergies or sensitivities to animal products, faux fur can be a better option. Real fur may trigger allergic reactions in some people due to the presence of animal dander or other allergens. Faux fur, being synthetic, is less likely to cause such issues.

Buying faux fur online

If you're looking to buy faux fur online, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, consider the type of project you're working on. Are you creating a fur wrap for a winter wedding, or something else entirely? This will help determine the amount of fabric you need and the type of fur you should buy. Speaking of type, faux fur comes in a variety of styles, including long pile, short pile, and shaggy, and can be made from different materials like fake fox fur or artificial fuzzy fabric.

When it comes to buying faux fur online, you'll want to pay attention to the colour, length, and width of the fabric. These factors will not only impact the overall look of your fur wrap but also the amount of coverage and warmth it provides. Be sure to read the product descriptions carefully and, if possible, order a swatch of the fabric to get a better sense of the colour and texture before purchasing a larger quantity.

In terms of where to buy faux fur online, there are several retailers to choose from. Amazon offers a wide variety of faux fur fabric options, as well as pre-made fur wraps and shawls. Etsy is another great option, with a range of faux fur fabrics in different colours, lengths, and styles. Many Etsy sellers also offer custom orders, so you can personalise your purchase to suit your exact needs.

When buying faux fur online, it's important to read reviews from other customers to get a sense of the quality and durability of the fabric. Pay attention to any comments about the softness, fluffiness, or thickness of the fur, as well as any mentions of colour accuracy. This will help ensure that you're getting a product that meets your expectations.

Lastly, don't forget to consider the cost of shipping and delivery times when buying faux fur online. By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be well on your way to creating a beautiful and practical fur wrap for your winter wedding.

Faux fur vs real fur

When it comes to choosing between faux fur and real fur for your winter wedding wrap, there are several factors to consider. Here are some detailed comparisons to help you make an informed decision:

• Ethical Considerations: The use of real fur has long been a controversial topic due to the inhumane treatment of animals in the fur industry. Faux fur, on the other hand, is a synthetic fabric made without harming animals, making it a more ethical choice.
• Appearance: With advancements in manufacturing processes, faux fur now looks incredibly similar to real fur, making it difficult to distinguish between the two. Both options can enhance your wedding ensemble and offer a stylish and elegant look.
• Price: Real fur is usually associated with luxury and often comes with a higher price tag, especially for larger pieces. However, smaller bits of fur or fur trims can sometimes be more affordable. Faux fur, being synthetic, generally offers a wider range of price points to suit different budgets.
• Feel: Real fur is known for its softness and sleekness, resembling the texture of a cat's coat. It falls smoothly and feels luxurious to the touch. Faux fur, on the other hand, can vary in quality. While some high-quality faux fur options feel soft and realistic, others might feel coarse, rough, or sticky, especially in humid weather.
• Durability and Care: Real fur is naturally durable but requires special care to maintain its condition. Faux fur, being synthetic, is generally easier to care for and can be washed and dried without the same level of delicacy required for real fur.
• Weight: Real fur is typically heavier than faux fur due to the natural weight of animal pelts. This added weight can provide a sense of warmth and opulence to your wedding ensemble.
• Versatility: Faux fur offers a wider range of colours and styles since it is not limited by natural variations. You can find faux fur in various colours, weights, and pile heights to suit your specific needs and preferences.
• Brand Considerations: When purchasing fur, it is important to be aware of the brand's stance on fur usage. Some brands have shifted from using real fur to faux fur, while others may offer both options. It is always a good idea to check the brand's policies and values to ensure they align with your own.

Ultimately, the decision between faux fur and real fur for your winter wedding wrap depends on your personal values, budget, and the specific look and feel you desire. Both options can provide elegance and warmth to your wedding ensemble, but it is essential to consider the ethical implications and care requirements of each choice.

Faux fur care and storage

Faux fur is a great alternative to real fur as it is environmentally friendly, economical, and not susceptible to insect damage. However, to keep it in good condition, proper care and storage are required. Here are some tips to help you maintain your faux fur:

• Cleaning: Faux fur should be cleaned at least once a season or when it becomes soiled. Hand-washing is the safest method, using cold water and a gentle detergent. Soak the item for up to 30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly to remove detergent residue. Never use a tumble dryer, as the heat can melt the fibres and cause irreversible damage. Instead, air-dry the fur and use a soft-bristled brush to remove any knots and tangles.
• Storing: Ensure your faux fur is completely dry before storing it away. Hang it in a spacious closet to allow for air circulation and prevent crushing the fibres. Cover it with a natural, breathable cotton garment bag to keep it dust-free. Avoid storing faux fur in plastic covers, as this can cause discolouration and trap moisture, leading to mildew and unpleasant odours.
• Removing Stains: To treat stains, apply a small amount of mild detergent directly to the stain and gently rub it with your fingers or a soft cloth. Rinse with a damp cloth and blot with a dry towel to remove excess water.
• Reducing Friction: Friction is the worst enemy of faux fur, as it can cause wear and tear. Avoid wearing faux fur while driving or sitting for long periods, as this can crush the fibres and damage its appearance.
• Avoiding Heat: Heat is another enemy of faux fur. Never smoke while wearing faux fur, and do not put it in the dryer. Extreme heat will damage the hair tips, making them less supple and soft. Even with a cold setting, the dryer's constant rubbing can degrade the hair.
• Brushing: Use a soft-bristled brush to gently brush the faux fur and remove any matted areas. This will help lift the fibres and freshen up the coat's appearance.
• Vacuuming: Vacuuming is a great way to quickly refresh your faux fur between cleanings. Use the upholstery tool to gently remove dust and reduce shedding.
• Repairing: If small rips or tears occur, repair them by hand with a matching thread. If the fur has fallen out or melted, it cannot be repaired.
• Fluffiness: To restore fluffiness, use a hairdryer to gently heat the fur and brush the fibres back into place. Always store your faux fur where its fibres can lay comfortably in their natural direction to avoid flattening.

Faux fur styling

Faux fur is an excellent option for winter weddings as it adds a touch of warmth, elegance, and glamour to the occasion. Here are some styling tips for incorporating faux fur into your winter wedding:

For the Bride:

• A faux fur shawl, wrap, stole, or cape can be draped over your wedding dress, providing warmth and style. Opt for white, ivory, blush, or light grey shades to complement your gown, or choose a bold colour for a statement piece.
• For a vintage-inspired look, consider a faux fur capelet, which can be easily removed during the indoor portions of the wedding.
• If you want to make a unique statement, choose a wedding dress with a faux fur skirt or bodice. Balance the material with other fabrics for a cohesive and elegant design.
• For outdoor ceremonies or photo sessions, a faux fur-lined jacket or coat will keep you warm and stylish.

For the Bridal Party:

• Matching or coordinating faux fur shawls for bridesmaids create a cohesive and polished look while keeping them warm.
• Groomsmen can incorporate faux fur-lined coats or stoles, adding elegance to their outfits and ensuring they are prepared for the winter weather.

For Wedding Guests:

• Guests can wear faux fur jackets, wraps, or stoles as part of their formal attire, blending well with their outfits and the overall dress code.
• For bridesmaids, coordinating faux fur accessories, such as scarves, gloves, or hats, can create a chic and unified look.
• Groomsmen can opt for faux fur-lined vests or scarves, adding a subtle touch of luxury to their ensembles.

Other Styling Tips:

• Faux fur accessories, such as gloves, hats, and muffs, can be provided for guests, especially during outdoor portions of the wedding.
• For a unique and memorable touch, consider wedding favours made of faux fur, such as keychains, ornaments, or small pouches with the couple's initials or wedding date.
• When choosing your faux fur piece, pay attention to the colour. Opt for shades that complement your wedding gown or choose neutral tones that tie the bridal party together.
• Try on your wedding dress with the faux fur accessory before the big day to ensure they complement each other and make any necessary adjustments.

Incorporating faux fur into your winter wedding styling will not only keep you and your guests warm but also add a layer of sophistication and glamour to the celebration.

Frequently asked questions