Faux Fur

Forget Grandma's garish moth-eaten furs. When used sparingly, a dash of texture from a faux-fur collar or handbag feels streamlined and modern.
Snap up animal-inspired fashions at these three hot spots.

Sloan and STEP by Sloan

VIBE The two-story fashion emporium serves up modern wardrobe staples, like Diane von Furstenberg separates and heels from Christian Dior.
THE GOODS Embrace the trend with a faux-leopard jacket from Fashionista ($320), perfect for layering over a little black dress, or a Twill military jacket with a thick faux-fur collar ($255). For a subtler look, head upstairs for imitation-leopard-hair pumps ($385) and flats ($185) from Cole Haan, outfitted for comfort with Nike Air inserts.
SPLURGE A camel and black faux-leopard blazer from Lia Kes ($350) features sleek detailing, like black piping and tiny buttons.   
1419 East Blvd., 704-338-1400
stepbysloan.com

Our Place

VIBE With a thick shag rug and two armchairs upholstered in zebra-print fabric, the décor in this boutique reflects the animal-print trend.
THE GOODS Find a few fake fur items, like a leopard-inspired fur jacket from Luii with a rounded collar.
SPLURGE We zeroed in on an elongated bomber jacket in black faux pony hair from Yansi Fugel ($667). Three-quarter sleeves and artfully placed buttons give the piece a modern, tailored look.
6700 Fairview Rd., Suite 104, 704-554-7748

Mary Jo's Cloth Store Inc.    

VIBE Think granny-chic, without the chic. While the warehouse isn't cutting edge, you'll find all the fixins for DIY fashion projects.
THE GOODS Faux furs from Shannon Fabrics are available in a variety of colors, from a funky lime green to a realistic soft camel color. Buy it by the yard and design your own jacket, clutch, or winter hat.
SPLURGE You won't have to splurge here. Most sewing patterns from Vogue and McCall's are less than $15, and faux-fur fabrics are almost all just $12.99 a yard.
401 Cox Rd., Gastonia, 704-861-9100
maryjos.com