Faux shearling has become one of the most loved materials in modern outerwear, offering the cozy warmth of real shearling without using animal hides. This soft, textured fabric mimics genuine sheepskin, giving you the same plush comfort and winter-ready look while being cruelty-free and easier to maintain. In this guide, we’ll explore what faux shearling is made of, how it differs from real shearling, how to care for it, and how to style faux shearling pieces like coats, jackets, and vests for different occasions.
Long Collarless Faux Shearling Coat
What Is Faux Shearling Made Of?
Faux shearling is a synthetic fabric designed to replicate the look and feel of real sheepskin. It’s typically made from polyester or acrylic fibers that are woven and brushed to create a dense, wool-like texture. Unlike natural shearling, which is made from sheepskin with the wool still attached, faux shearling uses man-made materials that offer similar insulation and softness without animal products. The result is a warm, plush fabric that’s lightweight, breathable, and more affordable than real shearling.
How Faux Shearling Compares to Real Shearling
While both real and faux shearling are designed to provide warmth, they differ in texture, breathability, and care requirements.
| Feature | Real Shearling | Faux Shearling |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Made from sheepskin | Made from synthetic fibers like polyester |
| Warmth | Naturally insulating and moisture-wicking | Warm but less breathable |
| Weight | Heavier, more substantial feel | Lighter and easier to layer |
| Care | Requires special cleaning | Machine washable or easy spot-clean |
| Price | Higher due to craftsmanship | More affordable |
| Ethics | Animal-derived | Cruelty-free |
A real leather shearling coat is prized for its heritage quality and timeless appeal, but a faux shearling coat offers a modern, ethical alternative that’s ideal for those who want comfort and style with a lighter environmental impact.
Why Faux Shearling Is So Popular
Faux shearling has become a favorite among designers and fashion lovers for several reasons. It’s sustainable, accessible, and versatile enough for a range of styles—from structured coats to cozy vests and relaxed jackets. The rise of advanced textile technology has also improved the texture of faux shearling, making it nearly indistinguishable from real shearling in appearance and softness.
Vintage Brown Toggle Faux Shearling Aviator Jacket
Different Types of Faux Shearling Outerwear
Modern collections feature faux shearling in a variety of silhouettes and finishes, offering something for every wardrobe and season.
1. Faux Shearling Jackets
The faux shearling jacket is a classic transitional piece. Lightweight yet insulating, it pairs perfectly with denim, knitwear, and boots. A thin shearling jacket works well for mild climates or layering under oversized coats.
2. Faux Shearling Coats
An oversize shearling coat or faux shearling long coat brings a chic statement to winter dressing. It offers full coverage for colder weather, often featuring wide collars and deep pockets for functionality and style.
3. Faux Shearling Vests
A faux shearling vest adds texture and dimension to an outfit without overwhelming it. Layer it over turtlenecks, dresses, or flannel shirts for a rustic, cozy feel.
Styling Faux Shearling for Different Occasions
For Casual Days
Pair your brown shearling jacket with jeans, a simple turtleneck, and boots for a laid-back but polished weekend look. Add a wool beanie or scarf for extra warmth. Faux shearling adds texture to everyday basics, instantly making your outfit look elevated.
For the Office or City Outings
A tailored faux shearling coat layered over wide-leg trousers and a cashmere sweater offers professional comfort that still feels relaxed. Neutral tones like beige, taupe, and cream keep the look timeless and chic.
For Evenings Out
Dress up a faux shearling long coat by pairing it with a satin slip dress and heeled boots. The contrast between soft textures—silk and faux shearling—creates a luxurious, modern aesthetic perfect for dinner or winter events.
How to Care for Faux Shearling
Faux shearling is much easier to care for than real shearling, but it still benefits from gentle handling.
At-Home Care Tips:
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Spot clean: Use a damp cloth with mild soap for small stains. Avoid soaking the fabric.
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Air dry: Never use high heat; hang your garment in a ventilated area to dry naturally.
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Brush to refresh: Use a soft clothing brush to maintain its fluffy texture after drying.
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Machine wash carefully: Only if the label allows—use a gentle cycle with cold water and a down-safe detergent.
To preserve its softness, avoid wringing or folding your faux shearling while wet. If it becomes matted, lightly steam it or use your fingers to fluff the fibers back up.
Collarless Faux Shearling & Faux Suede Jacket
How to Store Faux Shearling
Store your faux shearling pieces in a cool, dry place. Use wide, padded hangers to prevent creasing, and cover them with breathable garment bags instead of plastic. Faux shearling can flatten under pressure, so never stack it beneath heavy clothing.
How to Tell Faux Shearling from Real Shearling
Sometimes, it’s difficult to distinguish real shearling from faux. Here’s how to tell:
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Touch: Real shearling feels denser and warmer to the touch, while faux feels lighter and smoother.
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Back Material: The back of real shearling is suede; faux usually has a fabric or synthetic leather base.
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Price: Genuine shearling costs significantly more due to its natural material and craftsmanship.
If you want the luxe look without the upkeep, faux is an ideal alternative that offers warmth, durability, and ethical comfort.
The Environmental and Ethical Advantage
Choosing faux shearling supports cruelty-free fashion. While traditional shearling uses animal hides, faux versions rely on innovative textile design that reduces animal use. Many brands now create faux shearling using recycled fibers or eco-certified polyester, minimizing the environmental footprint even further.
How to Layer with Faux Shearling
Faux shearling layers beautifully with other winter materials, creating both warmth and texture. Try pairing a thin shearling jacket with a fine merino turtleneck, or drape an oversize shearling coat over a silk slip dress for a contrast in texture. Balance the bulk of shearling with sleek fabrics like satin or structured denim.
Investing in Quality Faux Shearling
High-quality faux shearling pieces can last several seasons when cared for properly. Look for garments with dense, plush fibers and strong stitching. A women shearling jacket or faux shearling coat made with lined interiors and reinforced seams offers warmth and durability comparable to natural shearling.
Long Faux Shearling Teddy Wool Coat
Final Thoughts
Faux shearling combines the timeless look of traditional shearling with the comfort of modern, ethical materials. Whether you’re wearing a faux shearling jacket for everyday errands or an oversize shearling coat for winter evenings, it’s a statement of warmth, texture, and conscious style. Easy to care for and endlessly versatile, faux shearling is proof that luxury and compassion can go hand in hand.