Fur terminology glossary

MG FUR HOUSE GLOSSARY

Essential fur terminology, explained clearly

A practical guide to materials, tailoring, finishes, care, atelier services and commercial terminology.

01

Materials

Key terms used when evaluating, buying, maintaining or altering natural fur.

Mink

Short, dense fur that supports clean tailoring and versatile everyday wear.

Fox

Longer hair with strong volume and visual texture.

Lynx / Bobcat

Distinctive natural patterning that requires careful panel placement.

Sable

Very fine, lightweight fur with a subtle sheen.

Chinchilla

Exceptionally soft and dense, but delicate and best treated conservatively.

Shearling

Sheepskin with the wool attached; construction and care differ from premium fur garments.

02

Cut & construction

Key terms used when evaluating, buying, maintaining or altering natural fur.

Straight cut

A classic silhouette that keeps the focus on material and clean lines.

A-line

A slightly flared silhouette with more room through the lower garment.

Fitted

A cut designed to define the waist and control shoulder and bust proportions.

Cropped

A short length that makes hem position and sleeve proportion especially important.

Raglan

A sleeve construction running diagonally toward the neck, often allowing easier movement.

Let-out

Pelts are cut into narrow strips and reassembled to create a more fluid, even fall.

Full-skin

Construction using larger full-pelt panels with fewer visible joins.

03

Finishes & components

Key terms used when evaluating, buying, maintaining or altering natural fur.

Guard hair

The longer protective hair that contributes sheen and visible texture.

Underfur

The dense, soft layer underneath that contributes insulation and volume.

Nap

The natural direction of the hair, which finishing and brushing should respect.

Lining

The textile interior of the garment; it can be cleaned, repaired or replaced separately.

Hidden fastening

Hooks, clips or discreet closures designed to keep the front visually clean.

Lapel / collar / hood

Elements that strongly affect volume around the face, neck and shoulders.

04

Colour & treatment

Key terms used when evaluating, buying, maintaining or altering natural fur.

Natural / undyed

Fur that retains its natural colour pattern and sheen.

Dyed

Fur coloured for consistency or design effect.

Demi-buff

A classic warm mink colour family.

Sheared

Hair trimmed shorter for a finer, more contemporary surface.

Tip-in / tip-out

Colour treatment applied toward the hair tip or base to create contrast.

05

Care & storage

Key terms used when evaluating, buying, maintaining or altering natural fur.

Fur SPA

Specialist cleaning, rehydration and finishing adapted to natural fur.

Breathable garment bag

Protects the garment while allowing ventilation; avoid airtight plastic storage.

Wide hanger

Supports the shoulder line and limits compression.

Ventilation

Cool, ventilated storage away from direct sunlight and heat.

Rehydration

Conditioning intended to help preserve material flexibility after wear or storage.

06

Atelier & commerce

Key terms used when evaluating, buying, maintaining or altering natural fur.

FURMARK

An international certification and traceability system for natural fur supply chains.

Warranty certificate

Document stating the warranty terms that apply to a product or atelier service.

Custom

An existing model personalised through material, details and alterations.

Made to Measure (MTM)

An existing pattern adapted more deeply to the client’s measurements, typically with 1–2 fittings.

Bespoke

A garment designed from scratch, typically involving more development and 2–4 fittings.

SKU / model

SKU identifies a commercial product variant; model identifies the design or style.

07

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about materials and care.

Which fur is suitable for frequent wear?+

Mink is often chosen for its balance of compact surface, versatility and tailoring potential.

How can I verify natural fur?+

Do not rely on one home test. Evaluate material, construction, provenance and product documentation.

How often should Fur SPA be considered?+

The interval depends on use, colour and material; periodic assessment is more useful than a rigid universal rule.

What is the difference between bespoke and made to measure?+

MTM adapts an existing pattern; bespoke starts from a new project and typically requires more development and fittings.

Should perfume be sprayed directly on fur?+

No. Alcohol, oils and fragrance ingredients can affect the hair or material.

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