Fur terminology glossary

Updated on:

Glossary of fur-related terms: materials (mink, fox, sable), cuts, finishes, care and certifications (FURMARK).

In short

  • Mink (nurca) = balance between durability and elegance; good for frequent wear.
  • Fox = “airy” volume; excellent for modern looks and capes/stoles.
  • Sable = luxurious and very lightweight; sensitive to temperature.
  • Let-out = cutting and reassembling the pelts for a more fluid drape.
  • Guard hair (protective hair) vs underfur (down undercoat) = shine vs volume.
  • Fur SPA = professional cleaning + rehydration + finishing; no harsh solvents.
  • Proper storage: wide hanger, textile garment bag, away from heat.

Useful links

Useful links

Types of fur (materials)

Mink (nurca)
Short, dense and durable hair; versatile in cut (straight, fitted, A-line). Good for everyday wear and long-lasting pieces. See also: mink products, Fur SPA.
Fox
Longer hair, “fluffy” volume; focus on drape and “air”. Suitable for capes, stoles and collars. See also: fox products.
Lynx
Spectacular natural pattern; panels are aligned for visual continuity. Worked in segments, with great attention to pattern. See also: lynx products.
Sable (zibeline)
Luxurious texture, extremely lightweight; requires controlled times and temperatures. A benchmark of refinement. See also: sable products.
Chinchilla
Very delicate; gentle, segmented interventions; spectacular tactile sensation. See also: chinchilla products.
Shearling
Sheepskin with shorn fur (short wool on the inside); different processes, sporty–elegant look.

Material choice is made during consultation, depending on style, usage and seasonality.

Cut and construction terms

Straight
Classic silhouette; highlights texture and clean lines.
A-line
Slightly flared cut; fluidity and comfort in movement.
Fitted
Defines the waist; carefully balanced at shoulders and bust.
Cropped
Short length; emphasis on sleeves and edge finishing.
Raglan
Diagonal shoulder seam; increased mobility and a relaxed look.
Let-out
Cutting a pelt into narrow strips and reassembling it for a fluid drape and uniform pattern.
Full-skin
Large panels from whole pelts; uniform appearance with fewer visible joins.

Finishes and components

Guard hair
Longer protective hair; gives shine and emphasises the pattern.
Underfur
Fine undercoat; responsible for volume and the “airy” feel.
Nap
Natural direction of the fibre; finishing and brushing follow it for proper shine.
Lining
Interior layer; can be plain, quilted or personalised; can be cleaned or replaced.
Concealed closure
Discrete systems (hooks, snaps, hooks & eyes) for a clean front line.
Lapel / Collar / Hood
Elements that visually change the volume and proportions of the face/shoulders.

See restyling for cut changes and repair for local reinforcement.

Colour and treatment

Natural / undyed
Without dyeing; preserves the original pattern and shine.
Dyed
Dyed throughout for uniformity or effects; requires correct care.
Demi-buff
Classic shade for mink; warm, sophisticated tones.
Sheared
Hair cut shorter for a fine texture and modern look.
Tip-in / Tip-out
Visual accents at the tips or towards the base of the hair for a subtle effect.

Care and storage

Fur SPA
Professional cleaning with gentle rehydration and finishing; restores shine and volume.
Textile garment bag
Protects while allowing air circulation; avoid airtight plastic.
Wide hanger
Maintains shoulder shape and prevents volume from being crushed.
Ventilation
Aired space, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Rehydration
Restores elasticity after wear or long-term storage.

Details at Fur cleaning (Fur SPA) and repair.

Trade terms and certifications

FURMARK
Global traceability and quality standard for natural fur; certifies origin and best practices.
Warranty certificate
Document stating warranty and quality conditions (MG Fur House: 3 years for new pieces).
Custom / MTM / Bespoke
Custom = on a standard model with personalisation; Made to measure = existing pattern adapted to your measurements; Bespoke = piece built from scratch, with toile prototype and 2–4 fittings.
SKU / Model
SKU = variant code (e.g. colour); Model = internal code/name of the design.

Want a consultation? See custom fur coats or write to bianca@blana.ro.

Short guide: sending by courier

  1. Pack in a textile garment bag or box, without pressing the fur.
  2. Include a note: name, phone, e-mail, remarks.
  3. Address: Casa de blanuri MG, Sos. Stefan cel Mare 46, Sector 2, Bucuresti.
  4. Write on the parcel: “Atelier – evaluation/service”.
  5. Notify us beforehand: bianca@blana.ro • +40 727 225 262.

For timing and quotes: repair or Fur SPA.

Which fur is the most durable for frequent wear?

Mink (nurca), thanks to its short, dense hair; it responds well to professional cleaning and periodic maintenance.

How do I recognise a genuine natural fur coat?

Texture and shine look natural; avoid old reconditioned products. Buy from trusted sources, with a certificate and real in-showroom consultation.

How often should I book Fur SPA?

Generally every 3–6 years for moderate use; more often for light-coloured pieces or intensive wear. After long storage, book an atelier evaluation.

Bespoke vs made to measure?

MTM = existing pattern adapted to your measurements (1–2 fittings). Bespoke = brand-new pattern from scratch, with toile prototype and 2–4 fittings.

Can I wear perfume on my fur coat?

We do not recommend it. Solvents and oils can dull the shine and dry out the fibre. For persistent odours, book Fur SPA.