We’ve seen it on everyone from Snooki and Deena to the almost royal Pippa Middleton. Fur has completely taken over as this season’s hottest trend amongst high fashion icons and Jersey Shore goers alike. Personally, I never liked fur until this winter, or at least, I never thought that I liked it. I think that more than anything, I was afraid of wearing fur for fear of looking like either a wealthy grandmother or a dramatic Real Housewife. But now that faux fur is seeping into more affordable collections and even frequently showing up on Ruelala and Gilt, I have to admit, I’ve completely given in to the fur trend. Here are my perfect 10 tips to wearing fur when you’re not actually in Jersey.
- Headbands. When it gets so cold that we are forced to wear a winter hat or headband in Ann Arbor (which we all know happens the day after Halloween), I would prefer a headband. I love wearing ski hats, but save those for the slopes! When choosing a fur headband this year, stay neutral and keep the volume down. Here’s your before and after:
2. Fur hoods. If you’re not ready to buy a full on fur jacket like me, participate in the trend by buying a coat with fur lining the hood. This year for Christmas, I got this Laundry by Shelli Segal jacket.
3. Fur vests. You really can’t go wrong with a fur vest right now. Where you can go wrong is what you wear with it. A fur vest is a statement piece. Pair it with a simple long sleeve shirt and skinny jeans. Don’t add any more layers to the look. Kim Kardashian matched her vest with a purse and hat.
4. Fur mittens. Perfect for your ski retreat over President’s Weekend or our insanely early spring break, fur mittens add instant class to a plain jacket and boots. They are also the most affordable way to add just the right amount of fur to your wardrobe. These are only $36 at Top Shop.
5. Fur scarves. Scarves can be tricky in the same way as headbands, wearing too long or too thick of a fur scarf can make it look like it’s swallowing you. Pippa Middleton wore her fur scarf flawlessly, tucking it into her jacket for a barely there, modest look.
6. Boots. Rule number one of boots with the fur: never wear them with shorts…unless you’re on the Jersey Shore. Zoe Saldana paired sleek black fur boots with winter wear.
7. Fur Sperry’s. Yes, if you haven’t already heard…Sperry’s are not just for summer anymore! Sperry Topsiders new winter fur lined boat shoes are a comfortable go-to for Friday classes.
8. Purses. Up until this season, when I thought of fur purses I instantly thought of a beige both fur and corduroy purse that I (gasp) actually thought I was cool carrying when I was 13 and in middle school. Here’s another before and after for you. The Michael Kors purse on the right is much more fashion forward.
9. Fur jackets. If you’ve gained enough confidence to wear a full on fur jacket, go for it! Remember, don’t let the jacket wear you, people will sense it if you feel uncomfortable, channel Carrie Bradshaw instead.
10. Fur jewelry…how much is too much? Fur jewelry is pushing the limits a little bit for me, but instead of a thick bracelet or obnoxious earings, keep it simple for a night out with this necklace from H&M.