What Is The Meaning of "Faux?"

Faux (pronounced foe) is of French origin, and, literally translated, means fake. The word faux is often refers to artificial or imitation products. Some of the common products you will see are faux fur, faux wood, faux leather, faux suede, faux finish, and faux pearls. Faux products can be of as high or higher quality as their “authentic” counterparts but more affordable and, in some cases, more durable or longer lasting.

Faux fur, sometimes called synthetic or imitation fur, is quickly becoming a trend followed buy even the most stylish fashionistas. Much of the population is morally or ethically opposed to wearing animal fur but still want to love the look and feel. For this growing segment of the population, the best alternative is faux fur. Since it is a man-made product, synthetic fur can be made thicker, thinner, warmer, softer, or in a variety of desired textures for a fraction of the price.

There is a great deal of variety in styles and color when it comes to the faux fur coat, stole, scarf, and other clothing and accessories. The patterns, colors and textures of real furs are replicated to resemble, and are often nearly indistinguishable from, the actual animal. Faux furs are available in traditional colors such as black, white, brown, and grey, but they are becoming increasingly popular in vibrant fashion colors as well. With all the fashionable options in synthetic fur, faux is fabulous.

A number of specialty stores and high-end designers such as Abercrombie & Fitch, Aeropostale, American Eagle Outfitters, Ann Taylor, Anthropologie, Banana Republic, BCBG Max Azria, Betsey Johnson, Calvin Klein, Charlotte Russe, J. Crew, Polo Ralph Lauren, and many others have joined the fur-free campaign by choosing to use faux fur, completely eliminating real fur from their product lines.

Faux Shearling or faux sherpa is a synthetic sheepskin, generally used for lining outerwear and shoes, with the same properties and advantages of faux fur. Faux shearling has been used by clothing designers like Calvin Klein, Victoria’s Secret, Land’s End, Ellen Tracy, Columbia Sportswear, Wilson’s Leather, Chaps Ralph Lauren, Liz Claiborne, and many others. It is an easy care, fashionable accent or lining fabric you will love.

Faux Suede sometimes called ultra suede or moleskin is a great alternative to natural suede. Frequently used for outerwear, shoes, and home decor, this durable fabric looks and feels like suede, but is generally 100-percent polyester. Purchase price is typically significantly lower than genuine suede, and, since most faux suedes are hand or machine washable, fabric care is a breeze. Faux suede has excellent color retention and doesn’t crock, which means the color does not rub off on other fabrics.


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