Vintage furs and minks remain a Chicago staple
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Chicago Furs are a real thing! (Pun-intended). They've shaped Chicago's fashion culture and at times caused uproar by critics.
The big picture: I came across a thread asking at what age Chicago women should invest in luxurious coats. The responses varied, with people sharing nostalgic memories of their first minks, whether vintage, hand-me-downs, or splurges.
I was so fascinated by the responses, I asked Axios readers for their thoughts:
- "Minks are an important part of the culture. It's like a rite of passage as you grow into an older Black adult. I'm looking forward to the time when I get mine." - Shannon P.
- "I have one that I inherited from my mother. She paid $4k for it decades ago. If we say we can't make them anymore, that's one thing. But if they're already purchased, there's no logic to ban them in my opinion." - Lori J.
- "I have a mink coat that belonged to my mother. I'd like to sell it for $100." - Judy M.
- "I inherited two mink coats from my mother, who was born in 1931, and I wear them occasionally. For me, these coats matter because of the stories they hold. They're small pieces of my mom's independence, humor, and history that I get to carry with me" - Julie B.
- "I am anti-fur; however, they last for generations and are very sustainable. My grandmother got a mink coat at the Salvation Army and it looked brand new. Also, can you really be against Mink coats but be pro-coyote fur coats like the Canada Goose jackets?" - Maggie B.
- "I actually have a full-length mink coat that my mom gave me when she moved to Florida. My father bought her the coat and Cadillac for him and fur for her showed that you were a success. I rarely use it because of the stigma attached to furs." - Rita B.
💭 My thought bubble: Faux or real, I love a good winter fur! It's even more special if inherited from a family member. There are also fake, trendy and affordable options at retailers such as Zara, Aritzia and Mango.