statement," says Janice Mann of
Robert Mann furs. She explains that
the sheared furs are lighter weight
and can be worn longer during the
season.
The sheared furs are available in
mink, nutria, muskrat, beaver and
more. The American Fur Industry
reports that the latest technology with
sheared mink allows it to travel just
as well as a sweater. The sheared look
is as smooth as velvet and allows the
designers to be creative with styling.
The colors are vibrant and shocking
this season. Malter Furs will be
showing some of the sheared furs in
ruby, emerald, ameythst and rust
colors. "We have a wide range of
colors in lightweight styles," says
Martin Malter. For the traditional
minks, the colors of mahogany,
chestnut, ebony and dusk are still
popular. The newest styling in minks
includes the swirling and multi-
directional patterns.
Many of the Detroit furriers are
using leather in their fall collections.
Bricker-TUnis furs recently expanded
their store to include an entire leather
boutique, called Europa Fur and
Leather. They are importing leathers
from Italy, Spain, Germany and France
and are making exclusive designs.
Many styles are revesible and have
zip-out linings.

One of the exclusive Bricker-finis
designs is the red, white and blue
leather Piston jacket which reverses
to satin. The designer is Jeff Hamilton
who produces progressive garments
for many rock stars, including Michael
Jackson and Paula Abdul. Other
exclusive designs include the
complete leather line of petite coats
and jackets. "We are filling the void
in petite clothing," says Jon Minis.
Martin Malter explains that his
store, Malter's Fine Fur and Leathers,
is also expanding its leather
collection. "We are showing some
new leathers with fine lamb," says Mr.
Malter.
Persian lamb coats and jackets are
another stylish look. "Persian lamb is
finally making a comeback. We sold
more Persian lamb in the last 30
months than in 20 years," explains Mr.
rIlinis. One popular style is a Persian
coat with a ranch mink collar.
The best news for consumers this
season is the lower mink prices and
the fabulous furs. [1]

Six button lambskin leather swing
coat with black fox collar and
cuffs at Europa Fur and Leather.
Photos by Stephen Karr.

This
season
the styles
are
sporty
and chic.

■ BY CARLA JEAN

SCHWARTZ

FALL '90

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