Fellwaren

Fellwaren are fur goods, products made from animal pelts used in fashion, upholstery, and related applications. In German-speaking commerce, the term covers both finished garments such as fur coats, jackets, stoles, and hats, as well as raw or semi-finished pelts and trimming supplied to furriers and fashion houses.

Raw materials include pelts from species such as fox, mink, sable, beaver, rabbit, and ermine. Pelts are acquired through farming or hunting, preserved by salting or drying, and sent to furriers for processing. In fur production, skins are fleshed and cleaned, sorted by size and quality, and then fabricated into garments or used as trim. Techniques vary by species and end use, with sewing, lining, and mounting performed by skilled furriers. Finished products include coats, jackets, hats, capes, stoles, collars, and various trims, as well as rugs and upholstery pieces.

Historically, Fellwaren played a central role in the European fur trade from the late medieval period through the 19th century, with centers in German-speaking regions and broader Europe. Industrialization professionalized fur processing; the term Fellwaren shops specialized in fur garments, often employing skilled craftsmen, designers, and wholesalers. In the 20th century, fashion cycles and international trade expanded the market; today the sector remains global, with major production in Europe and Asia, and a supply chain that includes fur farms, processors, manufacturers, and retailers.

Contemporary issues include ethical concerns about animal welfare and regulatory scrutiny. Many retailers offer faux fur alternatives, and some regions implement welfare standards or bans for fur farming. Consumers increasingly view Fellwaren through sustainability lenses, and labeling laws aim to improve transparency. The market remains influenced by fashion trends, pelts’ price, and competition from synthetic materials.