The Fur Guru Archives • We Are Fur

Coronavirus: Fashion’s Unprecedented Challenge

March 20, 2020

Covid-19, ask known as Coronavirus, is defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a new strain of influenza which has not infected humans before. However, since influenzas are zoonotic, meaning these illnesses are easily transmitted from animals to humans, then from humans to humans, since the first positive case was tested in China, the repercussions around the world are nothing short of biblical. As global infections reach the hundreds of thousands and cases in the US, Europe, Asia and Indonesia soar, the deadly disease...

2020 and Beyond

February 28, 2020

With a new year and new decade, comes new trends, in both fashion and society. 2019 saw a resurgence of new denim fits, an explosion in athleisure and nautical themes making waves. But trends spilled over the runway and into the streets as we saw climate activists campaigning for ethical and sustainable industries, the second biggest target for protesters being fashion. So, as we look ahead to a new year and new decade in fashion and society more general, what trends can we expect to...

The Archives: 20 Iconic and Controversial Years of Fur

December 20, 2019

The fashion industry exists in a constant state of flux with only veil of gauze, thin enough to see through, separating iconic from controversial moments. In today’s climate, with cancel culture on the rise, a number of prolific fashion moments have played an integral part in how we have spoken and thought about fashion for the last twenty-plus-years. However, when sifting through archives of monumental style sensations and fashion faux pas, a theme arises: Fur. So, before looking ahead and entering a new decade, it’s...

Zandra Rhodes: 50 Years of Fabulous

December 13, 2019

British legacy designer Zandra Rhodes, an independent brand and spirit, has used her unique patterns and designs to stay relevant for the last 50 years in fashion. Her most famous designs fill an exhibition at the iconic Fashion and Textiles Museum in central London. Visiting the exhibition on a gloomy December morning, I am greeted first by a memorial sized portrait of Zandra with her signature illuminating pink bob, and a collection of intricate garments that nestle to the right of it – a welcome...

The Future is AI: Fashion in an age of technology

November 29, 2019

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is used in almost every industry in the world, from healthcare and Education to Public Relations and Marketing, so it was only a matter of time until AI became an integral component of the fashion industry too. A study conducted by the Capgemini Research Institute found 28% of retailers (almost one-third) were using AI, a significant increase from 17 percent in 2017, and 4% in 2016. Capgemini then predicted that AI could save retailers as much as three hundred billion dollars in...

Fur Today, Leather Tomorrow? Fashion’s Unnatural Selection

November 22, 2019

It’s an indisputable fact that sales of luxury fur and leather products have been increasing year on year. But, while economics may highlight the appetite for luxury goods made of natural fabrics are on the rise, the lexicon is that economics aren’t always an accurate representation of societal attitudes. A recent study conducted by Morning Consult, comprised of a survey of 2,000 British and American residents about their opinion on natural leather, concluded that consumers negative attitudes towards natural leather were on the rise, mirroring...

Is it too Late for Ethical and Sustainable Fashion?

November 8, 2019

Since “ethical” and “sustainable” fashion became integral components of fashion brands’ sustainability strategies, a string of recycled mostly beige linen garments photographed against a backdrop of environmental hashtags have become a staple of nearly all high street and high fashion brands. At first glance, one might view this as a step towards creating a more sustainable fashion climate, in particular reducing the amount of new fashion being produced and subsequent waste that follows right after. However, the industrial rate at which fashion is being produced...

Champions or Charlatans: Can Fast Fashion ever be Environmental?

October 25, 2019

The fashion industry is valued at over one trillion US dollars; it accounts for 2% of global GDP and employs 1 in every 10 workers around the world. However, while the fashion industry’s global economic reach is huge, the systemic environmental problems challenging the industry are equally as far reaching. The fashion industry contributes one tenth to annual global carbon emissions, 5% of global water use, and it has been recognised as a sector with the highest risk of modern slavery in its supply chains....

Fabio Gavazzi – from Master Furrier to Haute Couture

October 11, 2019

Situated in the heart of Milan’s fashion district lies haute couture brand Fabio Gavazzi. Fabio Gavazzibelongs to the Fureco group, an Italian company owned by the Gavazzi family which has been active for four generations since being founded in 1922. Manufacturing fur garments with the highest degree of craftsmanship, Fabio Gavazzi is a brand with heritage and history that for almost a century has handed down the secrets of ancient art of sartorial fur. Today, Furecois a modern fur manufacturer whose uniqueness lies in their ability to interpret and personalize traditional styles creating innovative and...

From Food to Fashion: Is Veganism Really Better for the Environment?

October 4, 2019

At the core of veganism is the belief that abstention from all animal-deriving goods can solve many of the environmental, animal welfare and ecological issues currently challenging the world. One’s choice to become vegan is often based on a variety of reasons with ethics, sustainability, and environmental consciousness all being listed as top motivations. And while it’s important to respect consumers’ freedom of choice when it comes to what they consume, respect is not always reciprocated. But before delving into that debate, it’s important to...

Camp: Notes on Fashion, Feathers and Fur

September 27, 2019

The Met Gala, also known as the Costume Institute Gala, is the fashion industries biggest and most exclusive event bringing together designers and the most famous faces from the world of fashion, music, film, television, sport and art. The Gala is hosted each year by American Vogue editor in chief Anna Wintour, and a selection of celebrities, to raise money for the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met). The fashion fundraiser was founded by Eleanor Lambert in 1948 and was designed to...

The Amazon Wildfires – Fashion Fired Up

September 20, 2019

The 5.5 KM2Amazon rainforest and its tributaries meander through Peru, Bolivia, Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador and Brazil before meeting the Atlantic Ocean on the east coast of South America. Known as “The Lungs” of planet Earth, the Amazon absorbs 2 billion tons of CO2 each year, approximately 5% of annual emissions making it a vital environmental neutraliser doing much to prevent the rising damaging effects of climate change. However, while deforestation has continued to destroy the Amazon basin over the last century, the recent apocalyptic wildfires...

Celebrity Hypocrites: Natural Furs Faux Foe

September 6, 2019

Only a few celebrities are on the frontline challenging natural fur, denouncing the fur trade and propagating sensationalist myths to mislead their large following. However, while there aren’t many celebrates taking up arms, we are becoming increasingly aware that the beliefs of these celebrities are as faux as the fur they wear. This feature will explore the celebrities that pose as the defenders of animals-based products whilst at the same time owning or representing brands that use animal-deriving ingredients. This feature explores and answers questions...

The Truth about Fashion: Fixing Fashion’s Future

August 23, 2019

The fashion industry has always been a hub of innovation, from the invention of the sewing machine to the creation of 3D printed footwear, but what can we expect the future of fashion to look like? The $2.4 trillion fashion sector is a global economic powerhouse of an industry, and its transforming quicker than ever before. But while artificial intelligence is being used to predict trends, augmented and virtual reality create at-home dressing rooms, and robots assist craftspeople in the atelier and models on the...

The Truth About Fashion Part 2: Attitude and Attire

August 16, 2019

In part one of The Truth about Fashion, I explored and compared sourcing issues and supply chains of both fast-fashion and luxury fashion brands. And while many brands do what they can to instil trust and confidence in consumers through ever-growing transparent supply chains and ethical and sustainable sourcing, is it all too late? As the public moves towards environmentally conscious consumerism, attitudes towards shopping is changing. More so today than ever before, second hand shopping for pre-loved clothing is becoming more fashionable. However, growing...

The Truth About Fashion Part 1: Going to the Source

July 26, 2019

The most important rule for fashion brands is to stay relevant, so, it comes as no surprise that fashion brands are often in the eye of many social and political media storms. From questions surrounding traceability, sustainability and animal welfare, to issues about environmental impact, exploitation, consumerism and waste, the fashion industry isn’t in short supply of concerns. In fact, a surplus of issues, predominantly surrounding production and waste, fronted by the fast-fashion industry which produces 1 billion garments and 1.2 billion tons of CO2...

An Enquiring Mind: Manolo Blahnik

July 19, 2019

A treasure chest of art and sculptures, the Wallace Collection, once a source of inspiration to Manolo Blahnik, now showcases his uncompromising designs in the splendid grandiosity they deserve. Manolo Blahnik is an artist and icon in the world of shoe design. Originating from Santa Cruz de la Palma, in the Canary Islands, Spain, Blahnik dreamt of fashion, so after attending boarding school in Switzerland, studying Politics and Law at the University of Geneva, then Literature and Architecture, Blahnik got his degree and move to Paris...

Mary Quant: Miniskirts to Megabrand

July 11, 2019

Unlike the Christian Dior: Designer of Dreams exhibition – an exploration of one of couture’s greatest designers – as I navigate the Mary Quant exhibition also housed at the iconic Victoria and Albert museum (V&A), it becomes apparent that on display is a total rejection of Parisian couture and everything the fashion elite represented. Chronicling Quant’s twenty-year heyday and rebellion between 1955 and 1975, this exhibition showcases a crusade for teenage and young women’s social and sexual emancipation through fashion, re-defining the youth-led spirit of 1960’s...

GQ X BFTA: LWFM’S BIG CONVERSATION

June 21, 2019

London Fashion Week Mens not only kicked-off with a bang, but it concluded with one too. On June 10th, the concluding day of London Fashion Week Mens SS20, the British Fur Federation and British GQ hosted a breakfast panel discussion at Claridges hotel, where a panel of distinguished fashion luminaries discussed the rise of natural fur in menswear. And yours truly was amongst the influential fashion audience. Moderated by editor in chief of British GQ Dylan Jones, speakers from all branches of the fashion and...

Christian Dior: The Designer of Dreams

April 18, 2019

“Everything created by human hands express something – above all the personality of the creator. The same thing is true with a dress. But since so many people are working on it, the real job is to get all the hands that cut, sew, try on and embroider to express all I have felt.” - Christian Dior, 1954. The sold-out fashion exhibition the world is talking about, Christian Dior: The Designer of Dreams, is just that – a dream. Housed at London’s iconic Victoria & Albert Museum...

EKATERINA AKKHUZINA: A FUR & FASHION TRAILBLAZER

April 5, 2019

While Ekaterina has a say in the designs of Ekaterina Furs, she openly discloses she is not a designer and doesn’t claim to be. As you’d expect, leading a fashion company means Ekaterina needs to be involved in every aspect of manufacturing, from design to production. Ekaterina takes me to the very start of production, the Fur Guru wants to know: is animal welfare an important factor you consider when sourcing and buying your furs, Ekaterina? Yes, of course! We work with global auction houses...

ALESSANDRA DAGNINO: FURS ITALIAN FIGHTER

March 29, 2019

Alessandra opens up... I studied History and International Relations at the same time as working at the university. I began writing articles as a freelance journalist, and it was through this role that I first encountered the fur trade and well, the rest is history! When it comes to fur, Italy is in a unique situation, firstly, do you agree, and secondly, would you like to expand on this? In Italy, we are an association that is home to the entire supply chain. We are...

BROOKE TIPPETT: THE FUTURE OF FUR

March 22, 2019

Growing up on a farm, Brooke quickly became accustom to the production processes in animal industries. From a young age, Brooke appreciated the natural resources the animal industries have given mankind for millennia, and it is for this reason she designs and creates with respect when using fur and other natural fabrics. In fact, Brooke confesses… the more I researched fur and began to work with furriers on the production of garments, the more I understood the inner workings of the industry – especially the...

LUMIN YAO: A GRASSROOTS POWERHOUSE

March 15, 2019

After graduating from the Schulich School of Business, York University in Toronto, Canada, Lumin joined an internship program set up by the Canadian Government’s International Business and Foreign Trade Ministry. The Ministry was working with Canada China Business Council (CCBC) in China, of which North American Fur Auctions (NAFA) was a member – this was Lumin’s gateway into the fur trade. Lumin describes her entrance into the fur trade as the “perfect accident”, but sixteen years later, this accident can only be described as the...

SANDY BLYE: A FUR TRADE MULTIHYPHENATE

March 8, 2019

Like me, I’m sure many of you have crossed paths with Sandy throughout the years. Wearing many hats and with her fingers in all the fur trade’s pies, Sandy juggles so many different ventures, it’s difficult to pin-point her influence and knowledge as it is so huge. From my first day working in the industry, I felt a strong connection not just to fur but also to the members of the industry. So many of the companies are family-run, multi-generational businesses. Coming from my own close-knit family,...

REMIX 2019: Reimagining Fur in Fashion

March 1, 2019

Milan Fashion Week is always a pleasure, but on February 24th, the Fur Guru had a ticket to the presentation of the season: REMIX! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1whLgKc6FA REMIX 2019 Official Video Each year the International Fur Federation hosts a competition for young fashion and fur designers with the support of Vogue Talents. And after sneaking past the vip wall (the guru likes a low key life), I sipped my welcome drinks and nibbled on my canapés while touring the fashion exhibition, navigating the exposed concrete pillars at...

The Fur Guru meets the REMIX Class of 2019

February 15, 2019

As New York Fashion Week draws to a close, and London Fashion Week commences, the Fur Guru is growing more excited as Milan Fashion Week approaches, this means only one thing: REMIX. REMIX, an international fur design competition for young creative talents, is a staple of my fashion weeks circuit, and this year is set to be the best one yet. So, it comes as no surprise that before REMIX’s 10 finalists embark on the greatest opportunity of their careers, we come together to discuss...

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid – A Fur Fantasy

February 8, 2019

Escaping the snow that blankets Europe and the polar vortex engulfing the US Midwest, I find myself under the reasonably warm Mediterranean sun – it’s time for the hotly anticipated Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid (MBFWMadrid). Between Friday 25 and Monday 28 January, I navigated the cobbled parades that crisscross Madrid, skipping from fashion show to expert talks by industry luminaries, and back again. On the opening day of MBFWMadrid, the Guru is in a sensory overload. Marcos Luengo showcased a series of pastel and colour...

EDWARD CRUTCHLEY – A LONDON FASHION WEEK MENS SENSATION & VISIONARY

January 15, 2019

Happy New Year my readers, the Fur Guru returns! And O-boy, do I have a London Fashion Week exclusive for you to sink your teeth into. London Fashion Week Men’s kick-started 2019 magnificently for the Guru. A couple of days of shows, dinners and parties kept me busy from dawn to dusk, and now, while I unwind and reflect on my week, there’s one show that cannot escape my mind: Edward Crutchley. On the opening day of LFWM Autumn/Winter 2019, I sat front row during...

2018 All Wrapped Up

December 14, 2018

The Fur Guru leaves 2018 wiser and resilient. Like the rest of the fur trade, the Fur Guru has much to be thankful for and much to look forward to looking to the future. So, what better way to end the year than with the words of the fur trade, starting with IFF CEO, Mark Oaten: So, I guess as we look back on 2018, it’s been tough at times with some big-name brands going fur-free. But the IFF has been fighting back hard...

FUR-THE MIRACLE FABRIC- DIPLOMA. Q&A WITH CENTRIA UNIVERSITY

November 23, 2018

Calling all aspiring fur designers, Centria University in Finland is waiting... Centria University of Applied Sciences, located in Western Finland, Northern Europe, offers a wide-range of world class degrees and workshops designed to further the knowledge and understanding of fur designers and furriers from around the world. Delving into what students can expect when attending Centria, our Q&A session with Pia Blomström informs and answers any and all questions you may have about studying and designing with fur here. Q: As an introduction to the...

DOROTA GOLDPOINT: DESIRE FOR FREEDOM

October 19, 2018

“Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.” - Coco Chanel From London to Warsaw, the Fur Guru’s fur fashion fiesta continues…On October 12, I travelled to Warsaw, Poland, hailed a taxi and headed straight for my favorite restaurant – the Chef’s Table at The Sheraton. And as I enjoy my prosecco brunch I am overcome with excitement and anticipation because I, the...

Princess Diana: An Immortal Fashion Muse

October 12, 2018

“Diana was the very essence of compassion, of duty, of style, of beauty… It is a point to remember that of all the ironies about Diana, perhaps the greatest was this – a girl given the name of the ancient goddess of hunting was, in the end, the most hunted person of the modern age.”– Earl Spencer (Princess Diana’s brother) The Fur Guru begins a crisp yet sunny October morning with a trip to the iconic residence of British royalty – Kensington Palace. And...

Bianca Margarit: The Next Generation

October 5, 2018

“What one generation tolerates, the next generation will embrace.” - John Wesley The Fur Guru’s worldly travels continues, my darlings, and this week I’ve got a story you can really sink your teeth into. A few days ago, as I wandered the banks of the Danube River in Budapest, Hungary, opposite the majestic Hungarian Parliament Building, a familiar face emerged from the crowd. Of all the millions of people that call this culturally rich city home, I stumble into the cheerful Bianca Margarit from Bucharest....

Rome: 3000 Years of Fur

September 17, 2018

“Veni, vidi, vici. (I came, I saw, I conquered.)” ― Julius Caesar For millennia, Rome, with its chaos and charm, has been home to history’s most powerful and creative minds. The famed Eternal City with its mismatch of ancient ruin and modern elegance, which for thousands of years has been built and shared by great Emperors, artists, and mere mortals alike, is where this guru has been wandering. And while this may be my first ancient expedition to one of the world’s most romantic cities,...

The archive, the relevance of telling a story

July 20, 2018

“I get slightly obsessive about working in archives because you don't know what you're going to find. In fact, you don't know what you're looking for until you find it.” - Antony Beevor Oh, what a joy it is to wake up with the promise of a warm, sunny day in London! But more so if there’s also the encouragement of getting out of bed to have an early look at the curiosities The Arc at LCF (London College of Fashion) contains. Rejoice my darlings!...

Azzedine Alaia, the truth teller

July 13, 2018

“The most important kind of freedom is to be what you really are. You trade in your reality for a role. You trade in your sense for an act. You give up your ability to feel, and in exchange, put on a mask. There can't be any large-scale revolution until there's a personal revolution, on an individual level. It's got to happen inside first.” - Jim Morrison I know, I know. I told you the next post would be about Alexander McQueen's little treasures found...

McQueen, restoring life’s square deal

June 22, 2018

“You have the power to read in-between lines and look through people… that’s a hitch that will haunt you for the rest of your life.” - The Guru’s dad regular quote whenever he encountered the threat of her questioning the real meaning of life… words, rules, the system or people’s real intentions. And so, it is my darling readers. My father was right; it keeps haunting me. But, it’s good to know I’m not alone in this world. Oh no (no, NO!). Not under any...

Here come the girls: What you see is what you get

June 8, 2018

“In a time of deceit telling the truth is a revolutionary act.” ― George Orwell The Guru has always had a soft spot for this lady. Since my arrival to the fur trade her enthusiasm and leadership grasped me. Mette is that kind of woman that shines while making people accomplish high goals. She likes to command but she does it with grace and dignity, she doesn’t impose or abuse her power. She is a true leader that shares her ideas but also, she’s a...

Here come the girls: The irrepressible female spirit

June 1, 2018

“That was her magic— she could still see the sunset even on those darkest days.” – Atticus Poetry, Love Her Wild The Guru finishes another day at work. She’s meeting a friend for drinks. While having dinner, the conversation turns to her new project (this one) and the mentioned friend queries about what this woman (me) is trying to achieve. Life is funny like that, it all appears to fall in place as this week I met Katie. And she is a good example of...

Here come the girls: No quitter

May 25, 2018

“If the fire in your heart is strong enough, it will burn away any obstacles that come your way.” – Suzy Kassem, Rise Up and Salute the Sun: The Writings of Suzy Kassem I met Marcie October 2016 in Greece. The introduction was brief and we shared a bit of conversation (with good Greek food, music and wine). Marcie is approachable, friendly and makes you feel at ease from the moment you meet her. Yet (I was told), in business she’s determined, unstoppable, respected and...

Here come the girls: Setting example

May 18, 2018

“Setting a good example is a far better way to spread ideals than through force of arms.” – Ron Paul My visit to Kopenhagen Fur Studio a few months ago left me with a feeling of contentment. Not only because of the beautiful surroundings and work this talent hub has gifted the fur industry with but also because this Guru noticed that, in the heart of it, a big group of women are directing, promoting and supporting the creation of outstanding work. Catja is in...

Here come the girls: Meet the boss

May 11, 2018

“Women belong in all places where decisions are being made... It shouldn't be that women are the exception.” – Ruth Bader Ginsburg How exciting! The Guru can’t believe she has been so lucky to start this new venture with one of the best representatives of female triumph: Maria Reich AKA the Fur Boss (I’m pinching myself right now). The Fur Guru was pretty curious to find out how Maria can play so many roles throughout the day and still look glorious at the end of...

Here come the girls, the new Fur Guru’s venture

May 4, 2018

“It took me quite a long time to develop a voice, and now that I have it, I am not going to be silent.” – Madeleine Albright It’s becoming more apparent in the latest years that people of all backgrounds - women and men are showing up and want to be counted as those who believe in a world that is impartial, broadminded, ethical and safe for all, one in which the human rights and dignity of each person is protected. This year waits for...

Fashioned from nature at the V&A, London

April 27, 2018

“Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you.” – Frank Lloyd Wright The Victoria and Albert Museum in London homes an exhibition that looks at the relationship between fashion and the natural world: Fashioned from nature. May the Guru add, a complex and ever-evolving one; as fashion echoes the inspiration and rapport between clothes and the environment (flora and fauna), it has also had an impact on nature. So, the Guru walked through this exhibition where she was awaiting the...

REMIX 2018: For the love of nature

February 16, 2018

“Nature always wears the colours of the spirit.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson Hola! (little wave) I have been busy putting together images and words about this year’s REMIX finalists (Whoop whoop!). Using nature as their source of inspiration, these ten talented crafters and thinkers bring to the catwalk their vision of how fur and fashion can be used as tools to make a positive difference to the world, with a specific focus on preservation of the natural environment, sustainability and giving back to communities that...

We’ll always have Paris

February 2, 2018

“Paris is narcotic for a man alone, a never-ending labyrinth where the anxiety of freedom is relieved”. – Federico Castigliano This is my last day in Paris. I have always had a bit of reservation towards this city. I lived here for a while and, apparently (as I discovered then in one of my French classes), people from my country have a “very strong accent” to master the sensual phonetics of the language in an urban way. My over-cautious and self-conscious approach to the language...

Yves Saint Laurent Museum, the romantic escapade

January 12, 2018

“I have always believed that fashion was not only to make women more beautiful, but also to reassure them, give them confidence”. – Yves Saint Laurent Happy New Year my darling readers! The Guru has been working a lot but hasn’t forgotten about you. As a treat and, for you to forgive her long absence, she has brought you the epitome of the Parisian romanticism: Yves Saint Lauren. For many years, Laurent studied fashion and took numerous classes to enhance his knowledge on designing...

Christian Dior, the creator of the indivisible whole

December 8, 2017

“Women, with their unfailing instinct, must have understood that I dreamed not only of making them more beautiful, but also happier. Their favour was my reward”. – Christian Dior Click here for a sneak peek of the Guru's visit! Every beginning is messy… and so is the Guru’s brain. But finally, here it is! I have been selecting the best of the images from the exhibition extraordinaire in Musee des arts decoratifs in Paris: Christian Dior, Designer of dreams. This woman was for several days...

The Fur Guru interviews Remix finalist Nicolas Lecourt Mansion

November 30, 2017

“The goal is to make your voice really loud”. – Nicolas Lecourt Mansion Dearest readers! The Fur Guru is back from the French capital and she has so much material to share with you that she's trying to get organised really quickly in order to attempt to make you feel and enjoy all the amazing and beautiful things she found in it in her following posts. Oh yes! From delicious, heart-warming food and wine in cozy little corners in Montmatre to exhuberant beauty from the...

Mexico: The resilient love for life

November 17, 2017

“The Mexican succumbs very easily to sentimental effusions, and therefore he shuns them”. – Octavio Paz Brrrr! The weather is getting colder by the day and the Guru is happy, as this is the best time of the year to use and enjoy a warm, soft fur coat. Yet, she can’t help but feeling the blues of those chilled and hot days on beautiful Mexican beaches and shiny days in Mexico City celebrating the Day of the Dead. So, to cure these blues, she has...

Roberto Tadini: The dyer

November 10, 2017

“Attention to detail is the cherry on the cake”. – Roberto Tadini Hello my darlings! Hope you didn't miss me too much. The Fur Guru is back and full of energy after a well-deserved holiday! And she came back with the latest of our industry. She had the pleasure of talking with one of the most energetic, charismatic and talented dyers of the fur trade: Roberto Tadini. He has been a late but welcome arrival to the fur industry. In a previous life he spent...

Sustainable design: When words are no longer enough

October 20, 2017

“Buy less, choose well”. – Vivienne Westwood The Fur Guru is going on holidays (Yaaaas!). And in her research of exotic lands to be discovered she bumped into an article entitled “Sustainability just got sexy”… sexy? I would call it fundamental or a matter of urgency but I guess this approach didn’t fit with the promise of the writer to find the trendiest paradise for the millennial market. Images of stylish escapes in the “greenest” hotels filled me with envy (quite frankly) but also with...

The real power of anecdotes

October 13, 2017

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter”. – Martin Luther King, , I have a dream, August 28th, 1963. The Guru believes politics and religion are daring topics. It might be because she comes from an extremely religious family. Or because she has grown up with a strongly political sister who slaps her in the face with weekly reality updates about all sort of social and political misfortunes in the world. Don’t misinterpret the writer of this post;...

Home away from home

October 6, 2017

“Perhaps home is not a place but simply an irrevocable condition”. – James Baldwin, , Giovanni’s Room People, please let the Guru know if she’s going crazy or is it just her fixation for beautiful things that make her want to just grow roots and stay forever in one place? Because that’s precisely what happened to her when visiting Saga Furs Design Centre. This place just invites you to unpack and choose in which of its cosy rooms you want to stay… to live forever!...

The journey is on!

September 29, 2017

“I am part of all that I have met”. – Alfred Tennyson, The Complete Poetical Works of Tennyson It is called “the epitome of scandi cool”. And now I believe it. Copenhagen was a revelation as, while researching about it, was bombarded by pictures and blogs talking of this amazing place but only by visiting it you become aware of the real feel of this enchanting city. The Guru believes that the phrase from Anna Sewell in Black Beauty could accurately describe the mood of...

Reconstructing and Reinventing in Copenhagen

September 22, 2017

“Rise stronger, reconstruct – Requiem, Lamb of God Apologies for the delay; this Guru has been quite busy. You know she loves to write but before writing everyone needs to know exactly what about. And these past weeks have been eventful… So eventful that she will be forced to split the news by bits. And she will start with the highlight of the month: her visit to Copenhagen. This place is made for the lovers of beauty, of good company, of creativity and innate coolness...

About the real, good things in life.

August 25, 2017

“A thing of beauty is a joy forever.” – John Keats, Endymion: A Poetic Romance Last week, the Guru introduced you to Wang Yutao and his refreshing approach to life and fashion. All this love for the small and big things in our daily life existence were so revitalizing and uplifting that she couldn’t get enough. She got you the answers to some of the questions that popped out of her head when looking at Mr Wang’s collections but, more importantly, at his latest work...

The magic of the quotidian with Wang Yutao

August 18, 2017

“Discovery consists of looking at the same thing as everyone else and thinking something different.” – Albert Szent- Gyorgy Not that long ago, the Fur Guru heard of this man: a designer that finds inspiration in the ordinary life and with it, re-invents the world around him and creates a much better place to be. He relies on human introspection, heritage, simplicity, nature, peace and enjoyment. All this without forgetting the purpose of fashion: understand what people really need. His name? Wang Yutao. This lover...

Rebecca Bradley’s journals: Loving Green.

August 4, 2017

“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes” – Marcel Proust The Fur Guru loves to travel. It opens doors, pushes you to learn from others and at the same time it makes you discover new things about yourself. It’s just wonderful! It is the Guru’s interest and love for this particular endeavour that has drawn her to one of the most astonishing feeds on Instagram. Rebecca Bradley’s account was (for quite a while) full of...

Balenciaga: The Master of Shape

July 28, 2017

“Haute couture is like an orchestra, for which only Balenciaga is the conducter. The rest of us are just musicians, following the directions that he gives us” – Christian Dior London couldn’t get more sophisticated than this my darlings! Balenciaga is in town. At the heart of this city, the Victoria & Albert Museum has set an exhibition that has encouraged all fashionistas, researchers and members of the public to wait for weeks just to have the pleasure of seeing closely some of the creations...

FASHIONCLASH: Recovering the Sense in Fashion

July 14, 2017

“Vain trifles as they seem, clothes have, they say, more important offices than to merely keep us warm. They change our view of the world and the world’s view of us ”. – Virginia Woolf Oh bliss, it’s Friday! The Guru suggests that, to get you ready and in the mood for this weekend, you pour yourselves a glass of bubbles, put your feet up and enjoy this little package of beautiful surprises and unforgettable experiences she brought from FASHIONCLASH in Maastricht. Trust me people...

FURLab and their search for democratic design

July 7, 2017

“What’s not to like about making affordable, desirable, sustainable pieces that reach many people? That is the design dream.” – Elsa Crawford, ILSE Studio Hello beautiful people. The Guru is back and full of updates and gossip about her trip, hurray! For those who still haven’t started following me in Instagram @furgurusnaps (oh, oh…) and you didn’t enjoy the beautiful snaps I got from my visit to the Dutch low lands, don’t despair. I brought more images and amazing news from one of the most...

Fur Summer Accessories: From Bland to Grand

June 23, 2017

“The Devil is in the details, but so is salvation.” – Hyman G. Rickover Finally! (Yes I know, I know). Here is the awaited list of accessories that have been tempting us to spend that little extra to style our outfit every day this Spring/ Summer season. The Guru has discovered (thanks to all her wonderful Instagram followers) little jewels that will leave you wondering how you have survived the past years without them. Some of them are new designers and some of them are...

Hello Borough Market! We missed you.

June 19, 2017

“Keep calm and carry on.” – ― British Ministry of Information, 1939. You should forgive this Guru, my darling readers. She hasn’t stuck to her promise (very unlike her) of providing you this week with a selection of the most gorgeous fur accessories for the summer. You see, most important matters have happened for the past days, not only in the life of this Guru but, unfortunately in the life of thousands of Londoners. Borough Market’s attack and Grenfell Tower’s fire brought a sad taint...

About Werewolves and Guilty Pleasures

May 26, 2017

“Rebellion cannot exist without the feeling that somewhere, in some way, you are justified.” – Albert Camus. There are quite a few things the Fur Guru enjoys but one of the most delightful is to listen about myths and very old stories of how we have justified our “naughty” side throughout history. Personally, since early years, I have been of the naughty bunch: trying new things, questioning my parents when I wasn’t allowed (bless them!) and pushing boundaries were some of my preferred activities in...

Jesus Lorenzo: Some medicine for the gloomy days (and hearts)

May 19, 2017

“Elegance is elimination.” – ― Cristobal Balenciaga. Lately, this Guru has been out and about around London: enjoying the city and all the events that have been occurring and that this fashion and lifestyle lover thought would be relevant to share with you. Today is different, the city is wet and the Guru is a bit run out because of lack of sleep (perks of motherhood) and feels a tiny bit melancholic. To help with the lack of sleep, a good coffee and to help...

People, get ready: FUR NOW Campaign 2017/18

May 12, 2017

“Fashion is the armour to survive the reality of everyday life.” – ― Bill Cunningham. Morning my darlings! This Guru is full of excitement as the shooting and filming for FUR NOW 2017/18 Campaign is approaching quickly. Everyone is excited just to look at the pieces that so many of our members have generously sent from all around the world to be showcased. I wish my eyes could take pictures of the detail, the vibrant colours and patterns… Every single one of them reflects a...

From London With Love

May 5, 2017

“Paris is a woman but London is an independent man puffing his pipe in a pub.” – J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. The arrival of the Craft Week in London has allowed the Guru to enjoy the work of the most emblematic and respected tailors of Savile Row. Anderson & Sheppard has created, together with other tailors and in collaboration with Beaumont Hotel a commissioned, bespoke, capsule wardrobe. Each tailoring house produced an outfit for Jimmy Beaumont, a fictional character invented...

Hockley London: The Art of Re-Invention

April 25, 2017

“Fawkes is a phoenix, Harry. Phoenixes burst into flame when it is time for them to die and are reborn from the ashes.” – J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Hello beautiful people! The Guru just came back from her (well-deserved) holidays and appears to continue with this self-indulgent attitude. Oh, my dearest readers and there’s no better way to lengthen this mood than by paying a visit to one of the best known and beautiful shops in London: Hockley. The Fur...

YOU Animal, ME Human: In Search of Compatibility.

April 10, 2017

“The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness.” – John Muir. Some (if not most) of the monsters humanity envisages (youngsters and adults) tend to have some sort (or a lot) of animal in them. Why? (the Guru ponders…). Well, this lady believes that it is mainly because of what we have been historically and culturally fed with. By this I’m talking about myths, bedtime stories (yes, you know, the big bad wolf?), folklore. Animals come and go, have appeared and disappeared...

Argentina: The Beautiful Fight for the Future.

April 4, 2017

“The tango is a direct expression of something that poets have often tried to state in words: the belief that a fight may be a celebration.” – Jorge Luis Borges. I have always had a secret curiosity about Argentina. I find their people quite different to the rest of Latin America (in looks and in attitude). Sometimes European trades appear in them but still, they are charged with a fiery and bellicose spirit that comes only from those countries that have had to fight...

The Fur Guru: Ernesto Hinojosa, the Aztec Extravaganza

March 28, 2017

“Firstly, you will walk all the ways of this world before you find yourself.” – Aztec Proverb. Mexican people are well known for their eclectic and sort of crazy approach to life. You didn’t know that? Well, now you know (the Guru said it!). And just to give you a few examples of this endowed country you can always have a look at their folk art. Alebrijes are chimerical creatures created (originally) by Pedro Linares in Mexico City in the 30’s. They were paper mache...

The Fur Guru: Past and Present in Madrid

March 21, 2017

“Certainly paradise, whatever, wherever it be, contains flaws. If it did not, it would be incapable of drawing the hearts of men or angels.” – Henry Miller, Big Sur and the Oranges of Hieronymus Bosch. She was born at the beginning of the 20th Century (1909 to be precise). Her name was a never-ending thread of six names of which she used the one of Raquel but, secretly, I always preferred the one of Rosario. She lost both her parents at a very young age...

The Fur Guru: Girl Power

March 14, 2017

“How wrong is it for a woman to expect the man to build the world she wants, rather than to create it herself?” – Anais Nin. Last Wednesday was another year of celebrating the voice of women for gender parity. Oh dear! And it has been a relentless struggle to achieve it because, even though there has been progress and achievements in this fight, there are still millions of us who face the most unfortunate and undermining, the most precarious and unfair. It would be...

The Fur Guru: REMIX 2017 Show (Part 2)

March 6, 2017

“Creativity takes courage.” Henry Matisse. Buongiorno my dear followers! Yes, in case you didn’t notice, I’m still in my Italian mood. Lets not lose the momentum people! I told you last week there were still great things to come. So, I thought I would continue talking a little bit more about the rest of the highly creative group that accompanied the Fur Guru in her travels in Milan’s Fashion Week. Ladies first… Ólöf is the typical Icelander: relaxed, happy and cool (I wish you could...

The Fur Guru: REMIX 2017 Show (Part 1)

February 28, 2017

“Everybody’s youth is a dream, a form of chemical madness.” F. Scott Fitzgerald. Ciao tutti! Come va? Ha, got you! Sorry, my body is here but my brain is still running on good espresso and the most inspiring catwalks from Milan’s Fashion Week. My dearest readers; so many talented young designers surrounded this Guru! They all reminded me of the far away years of my youth when I was full of dreams, good ideas and stamina. To make my stay more idyllic, I was given...

The Fur Guru: Eggert Johannsson, Master of Cool

February 17, 2017

“The Imagists aimed for a certain sort of exactness- not a factually accurate description of an object, but a precise rendition of particular impressions.”— The Silence of Animals, John Gray. I guess you have noticed by now how this Guru is really into detailed description of things, humans, animals and landscapes, everything that surrounds me. I’m quite generous with my adjectives but this time, I’m struggling a bit to describe this person. I think the best way to depict this crafter is by the things, people...

The Fur Guru: MY LOVE AFFAIR WITH ICELAND

February 10, 2017

It's your time, It's your day It's never too late to change lanes How's your life? How's your place? Was it where you wanted your head to lay?” Rewind, Sterophonics Am I the only one or is there a time in the life of everyone when you just have to stop? Oh dear! I don’t even want to talk about this but… it might be age. Well, whatever it is, the fact is that it happens. So please my faithful readers, just stop whenever you...

The Fur Guru: REMIX 2017 FINALISTS: An All- Star Team

February 3, 2017

“Got it from the top, it's nothing you can stop Lord, you know they made a fine connection.” —They Love Each Other, Grateful Dead I have always thought that a connection is a difficult thing to find. You have to be extremely lucky to find a person or a group of people in the same place and time that gets you immediately. No explanation required; in the moment you are together, amazing stuff happens. It was while watching a Grateful Dead documentary that I...

The Fur Guru: PARIS FW17: BAD BOYS, PLEASE COME FORTH.

January 27, 2017

“In Paris, everybody wants to be an actor; nobody is content to be a spectator.” —Jean Cocteau I have always had a soft spot for Humphrey Bogart and the original bad boy look. Heart breakers, deceivers... I have had them all. What makes them so irresistible? The idea of these beautiful outlaws reflects independence and unruliness; they do what they want when they want; they don't follow trends, trends follow them. This kind of men often looks scruffy, but hip; he's not looking for trouble,...

The Fur Guru; Nice to Meet You.

January 20, 2017

“Whenever a thing is done for the first time, it releases a little demon.” —Emily Dickinson  Hello world! And welcome to my new blog. Am I nervous? Nah! I have always been up for new things. This is the beginning of a journal that will talk about fashion and about fur, about life-style, designers, catwalks and outstanding pieces. Please excuse me, dear reader, if sometimes it appears quite random but, that’s how life (and my brain) works. Passionate for narrative, I found that designers and...

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