Gen Z and Young Adults Driving the Resurgence of Vintage Fur
In a surprising twist, young adults and members of Gen Z are leading a resurgence in the wearing of vintage fur in London. Influencers like Federica Labanca, who has nearly 40k followers, confidently post pictures of themselves draped in mink and beaver coats. While they may be against new fur, they argue that wearing coats passed down through generations is sustainable, especially when compared to faux fur made from plastic. Leo Sherry, a fashion student, also supports the trend, finding that real fur is often cheaper and more fashionable than alternatives.
The Influence of TikTok and Celebrity Endorsement
The recent popularity of the “mob-wife” trend on TikTok has contributed to the rise in vintage fur fashion. The trend encourages individuals to wear their mothers’ old fur jackets from the 80s, capturing the timeless aesthetic of mob wives. Celebrity endorsements from stars like Rihanna, Kendall Jenner, and Kate Moss have further propelled the trend into the mainstream.
Individualism and Rebellion
For many young adults, wearing vintage fur is a way to rebel against societal norms and affirm their individuality. By choosing to wear real fur in a time when it is often frowned upon, they feel they are breaking away from the crowd and expressing their unique style.
Sustainability and Circular Fashion
Supporters of vintage fur argue that it is a sustainable choice compared to mass-produced faux fur. Fast fashion faux fur is typically made from polyester or acrylic, taking over 1,000 years to biodegrade. Young adults believe that true circular fashion involves purchasing second-hand clothing from local traders, reducing the demand for new products and minimizing environmental impact.
Controversy and Opposition
While the resurgence of vintage fur has gained popularity among young adults, it still faces opposition from animal rights activists and brands committed to being fur-free. Stella McCartney, a prominent anti-fur leader, denounces the fur industry as cruel and unnecessary. Many luxury fashion brands, including Chanel and Gucci, have pledged to stop using fur. However, some household names like Fendi and Louis Vuitton continue to sell new fur.
The Debate Continues
As the fur trend gains momentum among young adults, the debate between vintage fur wearers, animal rights activists, and brands committed to being fur-free shows no signs of slowing down. While there is agreement against the slaughter of animals for their fur, opinions differ on the ethics of wearing vintage fur versus faux fur. For now, young adults in London are confidently embracing vintage fur as a sustainable and fashionable choice.