Industry News

Contacts: Karen Lyp, Executive Director
Associated Fur Industries of Chicagoland
630/279-1931, info@FurChicago.com

For Immediate Release August 2003

Recycle & Rejuvenate Your Old Furs

Chicago, IL – Have an old, unloved or outdated fur just hanging around in the back of the closet? Did Great Aunt Mildred hand-down her once treasured Autumn Haze mink stole? Chicagoland’s furriers now offer exciting options to reinvent fur relics. Transforming old fur garments into like new, chic styles, accessories, home décor items and even family heirloom teddy bears is a practical way to adore an outdated fur garment all over again!

While the most popular fur to be refashioned is mink, furriers have the ability to restyle any fur as long as the pelts aren’t dried-out. First step in the process, bring the mink, beaver, fox or other fur garment to your local furrier to determine its current condition. Contact the Associated Fur Industries of Chicagoland office at (630) 279-1931 or log onto www.FurChicago.com for a list of local AFIC furriers.

For a garment in good condition but out of style, consider having the silhouette updated. Modify the collar, sleeves, shoulders, closures and/or hemline to restyle old furs into stunning styles for today’s active lifestyle. Alteration prices range from $95 (changing shoulder pads) to $2500 (for “the works” restyle).

Another remodel option includes shearing a long hair fur garment, thus, giving it a smooth, sleek appearance. This technique has become very popular as fur garments have become a part of the everyday wardrobe. Shearing makes a garment lightweight and super supple thus making cold weather commuting and errand running a real pleasure.

Other creative restyling options include converting old garments into more casual styles such as vests or bomber jackets. Or choose to use an old fur to line a versatile raincoat or duster. Shearing the fur will make for a warm and comfortable new liner. Or, perhaps, consider the new “ReKnit” remodel program which involves reworking the fur from older garments via a knitting process, creating a new texture and stylish silhouette.

With any leftover fur pieces, make fur pillows, throws or trim accessory items, embellish collars or cuffs, trim denim jackets or jeans, the options are endless. For that old stole, consider recycling it into a mink teddy bear with the monogram area fashioned into the bear’s silk vest.

According to Kathy Rezny, co-owner of York Furrier in Elmhurst, restyling and recycling of old fur garments is a popular trend. “Like no other material, a fur garment lasts for decades, allowing several generations the pleasure of wearing fur!” She adds, “Many clients who’ve purchased coats years ago or have inherited them, are now bringing those coats in to update into more modern silhouettes, or, creatively transforming outdated pieces into entirely new items. From stodgy to stunning, that’s what makes fur so wonderful, the ability to restyle older fur garments to reflect current fashion trends.”

Utilizing modern and innovative techniques to rework fur, furriers are able to provide the ultimate in recycling for their clients’ old garments. So, don’t leave the old stole or outdated coat hanging in the closet, turn it into this season’s fashion must have – visit your local AFIC furrier today to start your fur transformation!

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