It may be close to 90 degrees and sunny, but I have autumn on my mind. As much as I long for the colorful leaves of fall, I mostly long for colorful fur. Each year around July, I start to research my must-have outerwear pieces for the season. Unquestionably, this autumn's essential fabric is shearling, but fox and mink are still having their moments as well. My search for excessive fall fur led me on a great adventure for an afternoon of adult "dress up."
143 West 29th street may not appear outwardly glamorous, but take the elevator up to the 8th floor and you'll land in the mink-lined lap of luxury. It was a privilege to be invited to visit the Pologeorgis showroom where chic couches are accessorized with luscious fur pillows and oversized fox hats are just the standard work attire. Pologeorgis Furs has been recognized for their "tradition of quality and unparalleled craftsmanship" since their founding in the 1960s. In addition to their own brand, they have produced fur collections for Michael Kors (Remember that INSANE blue camo mink coat!?! Yup, that was Pologeorgis!!), Ralph Rucci, and Zac Posen, to name just a few. The company functions as an almost entirely in-house operation. Directly behind the beautiful showroom is an on-site factory where the fabulous furs are designed and manufactured.
Every item in the showroom is exquisite, but I immediately gravitated to an oversized green and blue fox vest (pictured below). A vest is a great way to introduce fur into the season before it's cold enough for an actual coat. I love an oversized vest layered over a motorcycle jacket or a chunky knit cardigan. It even looks unexpectedly chic and bohemian over a patterned maxi dress--floppy hat and oversized sunnies optional! Wearing a colorful fur piece is an on-trend way to stand out in a sea of black coats. This green and blue is still subtle enough that I can work it in with most of my fall wardrobe. As much as I love a bright fuchsia moment, I think I'll try to be a teeny bit practical with this purchase.
Another accessory essential for fall/winter? The fur hat, of course! I prefer the oversized, over-the-top variety, but there are smaller options available as well. If we are in for another polar vortex, Game of Thrones-style winter, this fuzzy topper could be a warmth necessity in addition to a fashion statement.
Other Pologeorgis favorites include a western-inspired full shearling poncho (perfect for Aspen), a lavender longline shearling vest that Michael Kors showed for Resort, and a fluffy black and white hooded jacket. At the end of the day, I would be happy in any and all of these pieces, but I had to go with my gut instinct. I'll be galavanting around in my foxy blue green vest! Check back for the many ways I style my new fave fur!