In earlier times, people around the globe wore leather and fur coats, but at that time, they were a necessity since there were not a lot of options available for clothes. As time changed, leather and fur coats became a luxury more than a necessity.
Now, people even inherit fur coats from their families. You can make several things from old leather and fur coats. This article will discuss what to do with old leather and fur coats and how to turn them into trendy accessories and coats.
Also, for those looking to add a new leather coat to their wardrobe, you can check out Tobleo. This online store offers diverse coat options, catering to your styles and preferences and allowing everyone to embrace both traditional and contemporary styles.
1. Where do we Get Leather and Fur for the Coats?
The real coats are made with fur or leather obtained from different animals. The main source of fur is lambs, and for leather, people use cattle skins. The most rare kind of leather comes from crocodiles and snakes.
Rather than discarding these coats, recycle them or style them modernly to elevate your look. Now, there are many companies that transform your precious coats into your favourite accessories like gloves, caps, mufflers and more.
Add Heritage to Modern Accessories
Repurposing old leather and fur coats not only aligns with sustainable fashion practices but also offers a unique opportunity to infuse heritage and character into modern attire, particularly in accessories like suspenders.
By integrating elements from these vintage garments into suspenders, one can create pieces that tell stories of craftsmanship and history, adding a distinctive flair to contemporary fashion. This approach not only reduces waste but also celebrates the timeless appeal of leather and fur, breathing new life into materials that might otherwise go to waste.
Embracing the inherent qualities of these materials, such as their durability and texture, allows for the creation of suspenders that not only serve as functional accessories but also as statements of sustainability and style, resonating with consumers seeking both ethical and fashionable choices in their wardrobe.
Josh Bluman, Co-Founder, JJ Suspenders
Recycled Leather: Durable and Sustainable
Repurposing old leather and fur coats can significantly contribute to sustainable fashion. Recycled leather is durable and resistant to wear, positioning it as a valuable player in sustainable practices.
The process is essentially about using resources efficiently, turning waste into products that are not only useful but also stylish. Itโs like giving a new lease on life to materials that would otherwise be thrown away, making them look and feel like genuine leather. This approach aligns well with the goals of environmental sustainability.
Often celebrated as a groundbreaking material in sustainable fashion, recycled leather is born from the need for innovative, waste-reducing manufacturing techniques in the leather industry. Itโs similar to using leftover dough to bake additional cookiesโitโs all about maximizing resource use.
As a popular eco-friendly option, recycled leather has earned its place in the fashion world, offering resistance to stains and wear. It is increasingly used in various products, including clothes, furniture, shoes, and accessories, attracting consumers with its eco-friendly appeal.
It offers a combination of style and environmental awareness, characterized by consistent texture and adaptability. Recycled leather can be dyed and treated, providing a unique experience, though it may not match the quality of traditional leather.
Amy Tribe, Director, OGLF (Our Good Living Formula)
2. What to do with Old Leather and Fur Coats?
Leather and fur coats are very warm, so they are suitable for the coldest weather; and expensive because they are made from real animal skin. In this section, we will try to cover everything that you can make with your old leather and fur coats.
2.1. Vests
If you are fading up on your regular fur coat, transform it into a vest, and it is very easy if you have basic knowledge of stitching and sewing. If you donโt want to risk it, then get a professionalโs help.
People tend to change their dressing sense with time, and vests are very trendy nowadays. Real fur is very delicate, so be careful while dealing with it. If you want to keep your coat brand new, then wear them only on special occasions.ย
2.2. Glovesย
If you have real leather and want to reuse them somehow, try this. Make gloves with your leather jacket. If you want to do it yourself, start by measuring both hands correctly.
Once it is done, sew them carefully. Gloves are very easy to make, but if you are new, practice them on some waste clothes first. If you have a doubt, hire people who make things from old leather and fur coats.ย
2.3. Corsage
A corsage can elevate your look, whether for a graduation ceremony or a wedding. If you have inherited a fur coat and want to wear it on your wedding day but in a creative way, then you can try making this from your precious coat.
You can transform the coat into a beautiful corsage to match your dress, cut some petals from the fur and sew them together in the form of a flower. Use a contrasting colour to make the leaves and sew them on the flower.ย
2.4. Pursesย
Purses are also trendy and look beautiful with dresses. In the market, you can find purses in all price ranges. If you have a beautiful leather or fur coat that can still be used in one way or another, and you are trying to find a creative way to do that, try this. Make a beautiful handbag with your coat.
Most of the time, fur coats look good only with dresses, but leather, on the other hand, looks good with everything from dresses to jeans and tops. Try to find a company in your neighbourhood to sew a handbag for you. Tell them your preferred size and length; they will stitch it quickly.ย ย
2.5. Tote bags
Tote bags are very trendy in todayโs world because they have multiple pockets, which makes them very convenient to use. If you have a long leather or fur coat, you can transform it into a very cute tote bag. Tote bags are the simplest thing to make.
Start by cutting two rectangles from the fur of the same size, stitching them together, and adding as many pockets as you desire and sewing everything together. You can also add a zipper to the tote bag for security and privacy.
Donโt forget to stitch two long, add thin straps, and attach them firmly to the bag. If you do everything correctly, the tote bag will be ready now. These fur bags can go with every outfit and will look very unique.
2.6. Stuffed Toy
If you have a fur coat and want to pass it on to your kids or grandkids, then you can try this beautiful way to transform it. Kids love stuffed toys, and many shops allow them to make the stuffed toy of their own choice.
You can also do the same by allowing your kids or grandkids to choose a shape and character. Then, cut and sew the fur cloth together. Now, stuff it with a lot of cottons to make it fluffy. Make small stuffed toys, and it will allow you to make more than one toy.
Foster Artisan Innovation with Sustainable Resources
Repurposing old leather and fur coats has been a game-changer for our community of artisans. As a partner at LoveNTouch Handicraft LLC, Iโve witnessed how this sustainable approach not only breathes new life into discarded materials but also fosters creativity and innovation among local craftsmen.
By utilizing these resources, we are able to create one-of-a-kind pieces that resonate with modern consumers seeking unique, environmentally conscious products, thus supporting the growth of our community.
Nidhi Sood Ruperee, Partner, LoveNTouch Handicraft LLC
Collaborate for Artisan Empowerment and Sustainability
Repurposing old leather and fur coats can play a significant role in supporting local artisans and craftsmen in communities by creating opportunities for collaboration and economic empowerment.
When designers choose to repurpose these materials, they often seek out skilled artisans and craftsmen within their local communities to help with the transformation process. This collaboration not only provides artisans with steady work and income but also allows them to showcase their craftsmanship and talents on a broader scale.
By working with local artisans, designers can tap into their expertise and traditional techniques, enriching the creative process and infusing the final products with unique cultural elements and heritage.
Additionally, repurposing old leather and fur coats can contribute to the growth and sustainability of local artisan industries. As demand for sustainable and ethically sourced fashion continues to rise, there is a growing appreciation for handmade, artisanal products crafted with care and attention to detail.
By incorporating repurposed materials into their creations, local artisans can attract environmentally conscious consumers who value authenticity and craftsmanship. This, in turn, can lead to increased visibility and recognition for local artisans, bolstering their businesses and contributing to the overall economic vitality of their communities.
Ultimately, repurposing old leather and fur coats not only promotes sustainable fashion practices but also fosters a sense of community and collaboration among local artisans and craftsmen.
Ben Davis, CEO, The Gents Place
The Takeaway
Leather and fur coats can be very warm but at the same time look good, too. But with the passing of time, the trends are continuously changing, and people want to go with the current fashion. We discussed the things you can try making with your old leather and fur coats.
There can be many other things to try with your precious coats. The fur coat can be used to make many accessories like earrings, a short dress for winter, a cap, and a pair of cute furry socks for Christmas. Other than these things, if you can make anything else with your coats, then go ahead and do it. Donโt hesitate to take risks because you can make something very amazing out of it.ย
Guest Author: Saket Kumar
Last Updated on by Saket Kumar