bontjassen

Bontjassen are coats or jackets made from animal fur. The Dutch word bontjassen combines bont, fur, with jas, coat or jacket, and the plural refers to fur outerwear in general. They vary by fur type, length and cut, and are worn for warmth as well as style and status.

Historically, bontjassen became common across Europe in the 19th and early 20th centuries, when fur was a durable, sought-after material. In the Netherlands, fur coats were adopted by both urban and rural wearers during cold winters, with designs ranging from short jackets to full-length coats and capes. The choice of fur, tailoring, and lining influenced warmth, drape, and status signals.

Construction and design typically involve sewing pelts into a garment with a lining, with the fur’s direction chosen for appearance and insulation. Closures may be hooks, buttons, or toggles, and collars vary from simple to broad, sometimes using contrasting fur or different fur textures.

Ethics and regulation play a significant role in contemporary discussions about bontjassen. Real fur raises animal welfare and environmental concerns, leading to bans or restrictions on fur farming in some regions and to shifts in consumer and designer choices toward faux fur or synthetic fabrics. Public opinion and fashion industry practices continue to influence the availability and popularity of real fur coats.

Today, bontjassen are less common in mainstream fashion, but vintage coats remain collectible and can still be worn in cold climates or rural settings. Museums and fashion archives preserve examples as part of material culture and historical dress.