It started with the #MobWife TikTok trend, a loud and ostentatious aesthetic that quickly found a solid footing amongst the style crowds. Predominantly faux, the material made an entry on many catwalks, including Louis Vuitton, Khaite and Simone Rocha, which further solidified its existence.
With the increased demand, there is also a need for a conversation about faux fur. First developed for its ethical advantages, as a more conscientious alternative, faux fur production at peak craftsmanship maintains a luxurious appearance. However, like any other mass-produced material, it has benefits and drawbacks worth noting when making future fashion choices.
There are many pros to faux fur. As a synthetic man made material, it eliminates the need for animal farming. It appeals to consumers who prioritise animal welfare and is a given choice for ethical fashion enthusiasts. Compared to real fur, faux fur is more affordable and accessible to a broader range of consumers without compromising on sartorial panache. Faux fur has quickly become the material of choice for brands within all price spectrums.
Photo: Pierre Suu (Getty Images)
It also allows for more creative flair, allowing designers to play with innovative textures, unexpected colours, and vivid patterns. It requires less maintenance than real fur and is not prone to shedding, excessive damage or expensive professional cleaning. As the industry chooses faux fur, the demand fuels further research, and progress is being made in using recycled and eco-friendly materials for greener faux fur when sourced responsibly.
Despite some eco-friendly advancements, most faux fur is still made from synthetic fibres derived from petroleum. These fibres are non-biodegradable and contribute to environmental pollution, leaving us at another ethical crossroads. Because faux fur has a shorter life span, it might be replaced more frequently, and because it is cheaper, we might be less reluctant to discard it.
