In Dublin, it appeared that we had become invaded by a pack of yetis and Chewbacca look-a-likes. But fear not we were merely fooled by the faux fur hats, scarves, gloves and winter cover-ups that have suddenly exploded onto the streets of the Irish capital. Fur, of course, is an issue that many fashionables have debated on for decades since the attention of PETA went global, mainly from celebrity support in their campaigns. Of late some of those celebrities who posed (always nude hence the slogan "I’d rather be naked than wear fur") appear to prefer the real thing than its faux counterpart perhaps feeling that faux fur is, in fact, a fashion faux pas. Naomi Campbell is the main culprit in question who after doing a PETA advertisement she then went on to front Dennis Basso’s 2009/2010 fall/winter fur campaign. She was not in any way apologetic as she stated “Yes, I am wearing fur, but I have also made up with that guy from PETA”.
As winter is now at our door step we must decide on the appropriate cover ups to withstand these next three months and venture out of out front doors proudly, warmly and, I suppose, with a clear conscience. Ethics has become a buzz word that has surrounded fashion houses and high street chains over the last 20 years. Not only in terms of fabric usage but also those who are sewing the fabrics and importing and exporting it. Child labor and fair trade is another massive ethical issue that is the dulling shadow on such a luminous industry. With high street chains such as H&M, Marks and Spencers and Topshop all stocking fair trade capsule collections at affordable prices that are wonderfully stylish there are many choices for the conscious Fashionsita. New York Fashion Week saw a "fair" amount of talent including Max Osterweis aka SUNO’s A/W 2011 collection. It includes pieces and fabrics made by up and coming Kenyan designers as well as pieces made in New York. The pieces are wonderfully modern and stylish proving you don’t need to wear items that are more faux pas than fashionable to be on-trend and stylish.
This week’s Fashionisto was so covered up I could barely see his face but he looked so cosy in his H&M hat and scarf and Fat Face woolen jumper that he had to be snapped. The hat style is all over high street this season in a variety of colours and textures and all including a faux fur trim. H&M have the best variety with this full on faux fur number of this leather style piece that is sure to attract attention as well as keeping you warm. The sweater is a full on CJ (Christmas jumper) that is perfect for this season and as this is last year's collection Fat Face did not dissapoint this season with this lambs wool knit with a signature Christmas pattern. H&M's concious collection for men and women is great for A/W and if wollen hoodies aren't your thing check out this recycled wool tweed waistcoat with a leather trim. It's very English heritage and is perfect for cold evenings. For a warm fuzzy feeling (that dosn't just come from your newest knit) log on to peopletree.com for the largest collection of fair trade mens and womens clothing online. This winter Fair Isle cardigan will provide all the warmth that you need this season.