WHITBY FREE PRESS, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBRM 22,1989, PAGE 25 A Monthly Fashion and Beauty Review • The llC aa M. ashion Ah! The cozy warmth, touch and luxury of fur! Women and men have been adorning their bodies.with it since the beginning of time and every civilization known to man has recorded the use of furs for protection, prestige and decoration. Canadians have had a significant relationship with furs which dates back -to the 15th century when the first European fishermen came ashore on the Gulf of St. Lawrence to dry their catches of cod and began exchanging knives, fish hooks and other items with the Indians for furs. In 1670, Prince Rupert and his Company of Adventurers from England began trading into the Hudson's Bay and thus was the historic beginnings of the renowned Hudson's Bay Company. It was the pioneering efforts of these early fur traders that played a meaningful role in the colonization and development of Canada as a nation. Fur, as a part of fashion, has come a long way since those early days and today Canada plays a major role in the global fur fashion market. Says Randolph Lengauer of "Randolphs Fur Salon" in Oshawa, "Canadian furs have an international reputation for being of a superior quality because of the environment in which they are raised and because they are better fed and cared for." Canadian designs have also earned international- acclaim. Paula Lishman, from Blackstock, Ontario, is known throughout;the world for her unique patented process of "knitting fur". Lishman's process .entails weaving strips of.fur horizontally into the knit which resultsin a casual and luxurious garment with the fur on the outside and the inside. Although anything goes when it comes1to fur styles, the newest length this season is the 7/8 length (knee length). It's a very fashionable swing coat that has lots of bounce and comfort and is very feminine. This length fits in with many women's busy lifestyles and is less cumbersome than a full length coat.. What fur is the most popular? Unquestionably it's mink. Says Lengauer, "Mink is the fur fashion 'king. The reason for mink's popularity is the fact that mink is the most durable fur and of couise is very elegant. Although mink is more expensive initially it isn't in the long run because it will last the longest and will hold its value longer." Mink makes up approximately 65% of all fur sales with raccoon, fox, coyote, muskrat and beaver making up most of the remaining 35%. In the past many women thought only the rich could afford fur but according to Lengauer-this simply is not so. He says "Almost any woman, or man can afford a fur. There is a wide price range in furs and price is influenced by type, style and quality". The purchasing of a fur is an investment and therefore there are many considerations one should keep in mind. What is your lifestyle? Will you be wearing your fur everyday or only for special evenings out? What type would be most flattering for you? (Heavier women tend to stay away from long haired furs which are much bulkier.) And, of course, what does your .budget allow? Whether off the rack or.custom designed the choice in furs' is yours. Many women choose to have their investment custom designed for a perfect fit and for a unique fashion statement that won't be found elsewhere. Many furriers offer this service and prices vary depending on the work involved and the reputation of the designer. Protecting your investment is naturally important . Suggests Spiro Haztis of "Spiro's Furs" in Pickering Village, "Make sure you. have your fur insured. Many people think that their house insurance covers their furs in the event of *a theft but it does not. Also, make sure that your fur is stored in cold storage in the summer. Cold storage prevents breakage and drying and ensures the longevity of the fur." What does the future hold for the fur industry? As long as there are cold frosty winters, Canadians will turn to furs to keep them snug and warm. As a fashion statement, fur will always be a truly Canadian part of our heritage and our proud contribution to international fashion. (~,ir~ 1ur%>DESI«rGNER FURS & LEATHI Int ernational designer, Mr. Jeffrey, TOP QUALITY will style and fit the fur or leather garment FUR & LEATHER your dreams. A coat, ajacket, or a suit spei PRODUCTS TO made with only you in mmd. Leather item5 SUIT EVERY available for ladies and men. TASTE & Meet Mr. Jeffrey at Spiros Furs. BUDGET For appointment call: 428-2233. -~10AQI <NG&QN Bi2..,ICKERING VILLAGE 428-2233 ERS of cifically, s are À Note: fur industry since the of seals which are eating most The fur industry has had it's Canadian government as of the fish. The Inuit Eskimos, share of problems over the enforced strict controls over who have long relied on the years due to controversy over the industry to ensure fishing and fur industry for the killing of animals and licensing of trappers and their Iivelihood are concern over endangered safety of endangered species. committing suicide at an species. The international Ironically, in the Arctic, there alarming rate due to their organization "Greenpeace" is are currently serlous concerns dismal future. no longer in conflict with the regarding the overpopulation i