What is Faux Fur?

Faux fur has come a long way since 1929, when the first commercial synthetic fur was created using shawn alpaca hair. While it was fur-like, it was certainly nothing like the beautiful synthetic furs we make today. They’re now near impossible to tell apart from animal furs, and also don’t require any part of an animal to be made.So, what is synthetic fur, how is it made, and what impact does it have on the environment? As leaders in faux fur fashion for more than a decade, we have all the answers to your questions at Unreal Fur.  

What Is Faux Fur Made Out Of?

To make faux fur, brands use synthetic fibers that replicate the softness, weight and movement of animal fur. The most common fibers used are acrylic, modacrylic and polyester, as they tend to hold their texture and shape the best over time. 

These fibers are anchored into a fabric backing, creating a dense pile that gives fake fur its signature plush, cuddly look. The advancement of these fibers and faux fur technology gives designers the ultimate control of color saturation and fiber ength, which is why synthetic fur can convincingly mirror mink, fox and shearling styles, while still feeling modern and wearable.

 

Why Faux Fur Feels Like Real Fur

Just how fur-like faux fur feels is thanks to the advanced manufacturing and high-quality synthetic fibers available today. By layering high-quality fibers at varied lengths, different depths, pile height, movement and textures can be created to near-flawlessly mimic the softness and look of animal furs. 

How Is Faux Fur Made?

How is fake fur made to so closely match animal fur, but without the harm? Before it even looks like fur, the fibers are created, spun and cut to suit a specific design. Longer piles are used for more dramatic silhouettes, while shorter piles are created for more tailored looks. Those fibers are then knitted or stitched into a backing that forms the foundation of the fabric.

The fabric is then dyed, brushed, sheared, and heat-set to soften the fibers and lock in the final shape. These steps control how the fur drapes, reflects light and how it wears over time. 

The Finishing Steps That Change the Texture

The last steps in faux fur clothing manufacturing make all the difference in the end look, feel and quality. Brushing, shearing, dyeing, and heat-setting help lift the pile, refine the silhouette, add depth and stabilize the fabric. It’s what separates everyday faux furs from luxury pieces designed for long-term, repeat wear, such as our bridal collection. 

Faux Fur vs Real Fur

The difference between faux fur and real fur isn’t subtle. Faux fur may look like its animal counterpart, but it completely removes animals from the process entirely. For many shoppers, that distinction alone ends the conversation.

From a wear perspective, faux fur is often lighter, easier to store and less fragile. ‘Real’ fur requires specialist cleaning and careful storage to avoid damage. Faux fur is much more forgiving, especially if worn regularly.

As for the warmth, faux fur now well and truly rivals animal fur. The control of the density of the pile and the added lining helps keep you warm in cold conditions. 

Where real fur has steadily disappeared from modern wardrobes, faux fur has expanded into everyday outerwear, evening pieces and statement accessories. And without harming a soul. 

 

 

Is Faux Fur Warm?

When faux fur is designed well, it’s incredibly warm. Faux fur traps warmth by holding air within its fibers, creating insulation against cold weather. The pile height, lining and wind resistance of the faux fur coat, vest or even hat all play a role, which is why construction matters more than fiber type. 


What to Look for in Warm Faux Fur Outerwear


Now that you understand what fake fur is, you can look for the right construction. Keep an eye out for full linings, tightly constructed backings and substantial piles for winter wear to keep you warm. Faux fur hats can also be a practical, fashionable option for head-to-toe warmth. 


Is Faux Fur Good Quality?

Quality faux fur can easily be spotted. It should feel dense, not flimsy, with minimal shedding. A quality fake fur piece also holds its shape and has secure stitching with strong backing. Over time, good faux fur maintains its texture rather than matting or thinning. However, it does also come down to how you care for your faux furs. 

How to Spot Better Faux Fur When Shopping Online

Shopping for high-quality fake fur jackets, coats, hats and other fashion can be a little harder online, but it can still be done. Always make sure you can view the fur up close in photos, whether by zooming or with imagery. The fiber density and texture should be obvious, not flat or sparse. 

Next, look at the product descriptions. Mentions of lining, construction and weight are all usually signs of better faux fur. Make sure you also check reviews, looking for any comments about shedding, warmth and how the pieces wear over time. These steps can make sure you’re only getting life-like synthetic furs. 

Is Faux Fur Cruelty Free?

What is faux fur fashion if it’s not cruelty-free? Yes, faux fur is considered cruelty-free as no animals are harmed in its making. Unlike ‘real’ fur supply chains, synthetic fur removes animal welfare concerns entirely, aligning with today’s growing ethical standards. 


Is Faux Fur Toxic?

Some people can be more sensitive to some dyes and fibers, including those in faux furs. Making sure you’re only using reputable brands and washing garments before wearing them can help reduce any irritation risks, especially if you have more sensitive skin.


Is Faux Fur Bad for the Environment?

Faux fur does rely on synthetic fibers, so there can be concerns around resource use and microplastics, especially in poor-quality pieces. So, longevity matters. Durable, high-quality faux fur fashion can be worn for years, and with good care, can help reduce waste and unnecessary replacement to help balance any environmental impact. 

Faux fur has come a long way since 1929, when the first commercial synthetic fur was created using shawn alpaca hair. While it was fur-like, it was certainly nothing like the beautiful synthetic furs we make today. They’re now near impossible to tell apart from animal furs, and also don’t require any part of an animal to be made.

So, what is synthetic fur, how is it made, and what impact does it have on the environment? As leaders in faux fur fashion for more than a decade, we have all the answers to your questions at Unreal Fur.  

Discover Faux Fur Outerwear at Unreal Fur

Faux fur has well and truly earned its place in today’s fashion world. It’s not a replacement, but a considered material with its own proud identity.

Unreal Fur designs faux fur outerwear and accessories for people who want warmth, structure and impact without compromising on their ethics. Every season, we bring you new tailored jackets, statement coats and new faux fur clothes and accessories that help you turn heads for all the right reasons.