Skunk

Skunk Manufacture

Skunk was used as a major part of the fur industry since the 1800’s. It gradually increased in popularity until the 1900’s when it became one of the most desirable furs around. This was probably because it was marketed as Alaskan or American Sable. At the time, Sable was the most wanted and luxurious pelts around. When people found out the true identity of this ‘Sable’ it became very unpopular, lust because of the stigma attached to Skunks.

Skunk was very popular throughout America during the time of the Great Depression. It was used to trim coats and jackets as it was relatively inexpensive, but looked luxurious. It also made the wearer look more wealthy and powerful than they were; a much needed boost in an uncertain economic period.

It became popular again for a very short period of time in the 1970’s. Fur farms first started being used in the 1940’s to keep up with the demand for Skunk fur.

Properties of Skunk

  • Made of long, coarse hairs
  • Strong
  • Glossy Black with white patterns
  • Fluffy
  • Luxurious
  • Warm to wear
  • Durable
  • Lightweight

Uses of Skunk in Fashion Past and Present

  • Used by Prada and Fendi because of the colours available. They used it for handbags and long sweeping coats
  • Coats
  • Scarves
  • Stoles
  • Trims
  • Collars
  • Decorations
  • Gilets
  • Other garments


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Written by Kelly Mitchell

Kelly Mitchell, extremely competent and reliable, she is currently in her third year at the University of Lincoln UK, studying Fashion. Kelly is responsible for the Fabrics, Fibers and Leathers sections of our Dictionary


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