Hollywood did something amazing recently. This something is something that some people are upset about, but something that others are thrilled about. Personally, I like this action since I am such an animal lover. West Hollywood has passed an ordinance banning the sale of fur on clothing.
It is still possible to purchase fur on accessories such as gloves, boots and other accessories. The ban on fur does not mean that vintage clothing that is found in the consignment stores cannot be sold either. It will be possible to pick up a fur clothing item that has been around for years. However, new fur is no longer being sold in the clothing section.
Well, this bill has not yet gone into affect. It is scheduled to go into affect June of 2012. This will give businesses time to get ready to eliminate their fur sections and purchase new products for their stores. This will also give the counsel time to determine the fines or consequences of the sale of furs. This bill will also not necessarily affect vintage clothing and non-clothing items such as bedding. This will not affect leather, but rather clothing that has hair, wool or fur on it that includes the pelt itself. Sheerling will not be affected as this does not include the pelt or skin of the animal.
What affect does this have on the fashion world as a whole though? Well,West Hollywood is often a trend setting area. This means that there may be a decrease of fur in fashion all together. While fur will more than likely continue to be worn, there is the potential that these items will be rarer and more expensive than normal.
Personally, I tend to think that fur is something to be avoided. It requires a lot of care beyond the simple washing. It needs to be stored in climate controlled areas. It needs to be washed with certain cleaners. It can stink and decompose if it is not treated properly. In addition, just as I hate having my dog’s fur stick to me, I would be upset if my coat shed on me.
With faux fur, you can get the same look as fur. It tends to be softer and is certainly more durable than the real fur. Personally, I use this faux fur in my knitting and I love to see it on my jackets, and yes, I do check my clothing for faux fur. I love my animals, and I love that West Hollywood has stated that they love animals enough not to sell them on clothing.