Although you may adore the feeling of a fur coat on your skin, or the warmth that goose down offers during the colder months, at the end of the day an animal has paid the ultimate price for these fashions. Thus, cruelty-free coats may be at the forefront of animal lovers' minds this winter, because you can look totally trendy in animal-free alternatives instead.
Of course, there’s still a long way to go to phase out use of animal hides and furs completely in the fashion and beauty industries, but you can do your bit by choosing not to support these practices. By picking faux fur and non-down options you can look amazing and feel totally guilt-free about your favorite furry friends. Besides, these alternatives are just as stylish and will keep you cozy in the winter time too. By cleverly using materials such as hemp, recycled synthetic fibers, organic cotton, and innovative materials such as Save the Duck’s PLUMTECH® fiber, cruelty-free coats should keep you as toasty as their counterparts that contain fur and down.
So if you adore animals and you want to vote with your money, choose cruelty-free outerwear this winter that's free from any animal derived materials. Because no-one wants to feel guilty about their fashion choices!
1. The Classic Waxed Coat
FW15 The Kaitlin Waxed Winter Coat In Olive, $450, Vaute Couture
Innovative vegan clothing company Vaute Couture have created this environmentally friendly, breathable coat, that "looks better with age," that's sure to become a winter wardrobe staple.
2. The Cool & Casual Coat
Ladies' Sea Shepherd Classic HoodLamb, $328, HoodLamb
Made from materials such as hemp and recycled PET faux-fur, this casual jacket will keep you cosy while spreading the message about marine conservation organization Sea Shepherd and the awesome work they do.
3. The Rad Plaid Coat
Holton Plaid Shawl Collar Coat BB Dakota, $148, Nordstrom
Not all winter garments need to be dark and dreary — add a splash of scarlet to your workwear with a smart, plaid coat made from acrylic and polyester.
4. The Riding Coat
Outlander Claire Faux Fur Trim Riding Coat, $60, Torrid
Adventure seekers with a flair for fashion will love this luxe riding coat, finished with faux fur trim.
5. The Perfect Parka
The Casto Parka In Matte Cherry, $580, Vaute Couture
Stand out from the crowd in a sumptuous, cherry red parka to keep warm while looking festive.
6. The Evening Coat
Textured Long Evening Coat, $99, Torrid
On cold winter nights, your biker jacket or blazer just won't cut it, so invest in a decadent dress coat instead. This particular style is made from polyester and cotton.
7. The Contemporary Coat
The Angela In Black, $375, Vaute Couture
A huge hood and a cape-like cut make this one of the most contemporary, cruelty-free coats in existence.
8. The Fluffy Coat
Urbancode Faux Fur Coat With Border Stripes, $73, ASOS
When you're having a day where you feel like crawling back into bed, wear this fluffy, faux fur coat to help you make it through.
9. The Faux Shearling Jacket
Faux Fur Shearling Jacket, $150, Topshop
There's no denying that shearling coats look cool, but the realities of the wool industry are anything but, so slip into a faux shearling jacket for a clearer conscience.
10. The No Down Puffer Coat
Women's Puffer Coat With Faux Fur Collar In Sand Beige, $248, Save The Duck
If you disagree with down, envelop yourself in a Save the Duck coat that fuses style and functionality. Save the Duck was awarded the 2014 Vegan Fashion Award by PETA Deutschland and has “Animal Free Fashion” certification.
11. The Designer Coat
Felt Grey Galiena Coat, $2,175, Stella McCartney
Folks looking to invest their money in a designer coat that will last for many moons to come can turn to cruelty-free queen Stella McCartney and the many chic coats she has to offer.
There are so many cruelty-free coats out there that don't contain fur, wool, down, or any other animal derived materials, so all that's left to do is choose your favorite!
Images: Courtesy Brands