Faux Real

Vegetarian Times, Feb, 2001 by Danny Seo

THIS SEASON'S HOTTEST TREND IS FASHION WITH COMPASSION

Just when you thought real fur had gone the way of the Corvair, fashionistas have started donning real pelts again. What's an animal-loving yet style-conscious person to do?

Rather than lecture or protest, what if we gave those fashion slaves a better alternative? Today's faux fur is remarkably similar to the real thing. Thanks to inventive technology, it has evolved from cheesy fake fuzz into a soft, luxurious material. In fact, this year's faux fur is the focus of many top designer collections, including Guess, DKNY and BCBG by Max Azria.

Here's a peek at this season's best faux fur clothing and accessories. With so many stylish choices out there, we're sure you'll find a piece or two that will become a fashion staple in your wardrobe. And while you're at it, think about shunning leather during your shopping sprees; it's just fur without the fluff.

Gotcha Covered

In 1997, Hat Attack and Todd Oldham teamed up to create faux fur hats to benefit PETA. This season, Hat Attack has come out with its own chic line of Mongolian synthetic fur items, including handbags and this stylish flat (left; $45). (800) 982-1569

Warm Cool

The problem with winter coats is that the ones that keep you warm aren't very cool and the ones that look cool don't keep you warm. Anthropologie has a stylish solution with its plush Faux Fur Coat (left; $148) As warm and soft as the real thing, this acrylic and polyester coat is cross-dyed in olive and orange to create an opalescent effect. It's also fully lined and cut to fit like a classic barn jacket. (800) 543-1039; www.anthropologie.com

Zip Drive

At the top of our pants wish list is Anthropologie's Printed Faux Fur Pants (left; $138), supersoft trousers made of velvety moleskin (a suede-like cotton fabric). Their body-hugging fit and back zipper give the waist a clean, modern look that can be dressed up or down. Red stitching on the side adds a touch of pizzazz. (800) 543-1039; www.anthropologie.com

Vested Interest

Too often, faux snakeskin or ostrich clothing and accessories are genuine leather. But not Guess' sizzling Cobra Vest (opposite page; $82). It's made of pleather. To be sure you're only buying faux, make it a point to always read a garment's label, (877) 44-GUESS; www.guess.com

1. Full Weather Jacket

Neither rain, nor sleet nor snow will stop the mailman, nor will they keep you from wearing this Sueded Cotton Jacket ($145) from Armani Exchange Outdoors. Choose from brown or camel (800/717-AXAX: www.armaniexchange.com

2. Snake Charmer

Spiff up your wardrobe with a short jacket that's long on flair and attitude. Guess' hip-length Gramercy Jacket with Snake Fur ($98) has a furry snake print on the collar and cuffs that transforms this piece from your run-of-the mill denim jacket into a treasured topper. (877) 44-GUESS; www.guess.com

3. Skirting the Issue

If you love the look of suede almost as much as you love animals, you'll adore ultrasuede. This year, faux-suede clothing like this Chap Skirt ($495) from Irish designer Fiona Walker is taking the runways by storm. From a practical point of view, ultrasuede isn't just stylish: it's durable inexpensive and machine washable too. Available in umber or dark brown. (212) 664-9699

4. Groovy Kid Stuff

Trendy youngsters won't want to leave the house without this updated classic ($56). Leave it to DKNY to class up the jean jacket by adding faux red fur to the collar and cuffs and matching red stitching. There are two roomy side pockets for your little ones to warm up their hands. www.estyle.com

5. Fur Sure

Mix-rematch, dress-for-success wardrobes that revolve around black and neutral basics may be an economical way to dress well, but how much fun is that? Nine West's Faux Fur Vest ($199) is a fabulous way to add some flavor to the 9-to-5 grind. It has a zip front, is fully lined and looks so much like the real thing that no one will believe it's made of acrylic and cotton. (800) 999-1877: www.ninewest.com

6. Glam It Up

Your heavy winter coat and Arctic parka certainly have their place in your wardrobe, but not with a dressy outfit or sleeveless evening gown. BCBG Max Azria's Faux Fur Neck Wrap ($144) to the rescue. It's warm and stylish and perfect for elegant occasions. This shoulder wrap comes in glossy camel and is fully lined. (888) 282-6060; www.nordstroms.com

7. That Touch of "Mink"

If you want to make a fashion statement, don't forget the details. "This warm turtleneck sweater by Laundry ($178) has accents of man-made mink at the wrists and collar and belt loops along the edge for a snug, sexy fit. Available in winter white or chocolate brown. (888) 282-6060; www.nordstroms.com

Vegetarian Times editorial advisory board member Danny Seo ("Faux Real," p. 66) is president of Danny Seo Media Ventures, an author and lifelong activist. His upcoming book, Conscious Style Home, a complete guide to eco-friendly home design, will be published by St. Martin's Press this fall. Visit www.dannyseo.com for more information.