In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of shearling, from its origins and types to the best ways to care for your shearling garments. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast or just curious, join our ride as we dive in the cozy world of shearling!
What is Shearling?
Shearling is a wonder of nature that combines the best of both worlds: the soft, insulating wool of sheep or lambs and the sturdy, durable suede leather of their hides. It is made from the skin of a sheep or lamb that has been tanned with the wool still attached. This unique process results in a dual-sided material: the exterior side is suede leather, and the interior side is wool
The History of Shearling: From Ancient Times to Modern Luxury
Shearling, with its warm and durable qualities, has been cherished for thousands of years. Originating in ancient times, early humans tanned sheep hides with the wool still attached, creating a material that provided essential insulation and protection against harsh weather.
During the Middle Ages, shearling was commonly used by shepherds and farmers for warmth, and by the Renaissance, it had gained popularity among the wealthy for its luxurious feel.
Its role expanded significantly during World Wars I and II when military aviators wore shearling bomber jackets for warmth at high altitudes. Post-war, these jackets became a fashion statement, admired for their rugged yet stylish look.
Today, shearling is a staple in high fashion, prized for its natural warmth and elegance.
The Unique Appeal of Shearling Material
Why do people love shearling material so much? It’s simple: shearling offers warmth and breathability. Unlike synthetic materials that can trap moisture and make you feel clammy, shearling’s natural fibers allow your skin to breathe, keeping you warm without overheating. Plus, shearling is incredibly durable, making it a smart investment for your wardrobe.
Discover the Shearling Types
Not all shearling is created equal. Here’s a quick look at the different shearling types you might come across:
Lamb Shearling: It is soft, lightweight, luxurious, and sourced from young lambs. Lamb shearling is prized for its delicate feel. It’s used in high-end garments like coats and jackets, footwear, couches, shearling throws, cushions, and baby blankets.
Sheepskin Shearling: Thicker and more robust, sheepskin shearling comes from mature sheep. It’s perfect for heavy-duty outerwear like bomber jackets that must withstand the elements.
Faux Shearling: For those who prefer a cruelty-free option, faux shearling offers a synthetic alternative that mimics the look and feel of real shearling. It’s made from synthetic fibers. It’s also generally easier to care for and more affordable.
What is Shearling Fur?
Shearling fur is sourced from lambs or young sheep, typically less than a year old, that have been shorn once. This initial shearing produces a short, uniform wool length on the hide.
Shearling fur is a fluffy, insulating layer that keeps you warm even on the coldest days.
Iconic Shearling Jackets
Shearling jackets are a staple in winter wardrobes, offering style and function in equal measure. Here are a couple of iconic styles:
Shearling Bomber Jackets: Originating from World War II aviation gear, the shearling bomber jacket combines rugged looks with incredible warmth.
Exterior: The exterior of a shearling bomber jacket is typically made from suede leather, providing a rugged and stylish look.
Interior: The interior is lined with shearling fur, which is the processed pelt of a young sheep with the wool still attached.
Shearling Collar: One of the signature features of shearling bomber jackets is the shearling collar. This not only adds to the jacket’s warmth but also enhances its aesthetic appeal with a luxurious, fluffy trim.
Leather Shearling Jackets: These jackets feature a sleek leather exterior with a cozy shearling lining, making them both durable and stylish. Whether you’re navigating city streets or country roads, a leather shearling jacket is a versatile choice.
Faux Shearling Jacket
A faux shearling jacket is made from synthetic materials designed to mimic the look and feel of real shearling. It features a soft, plush lining on the inside, while the exterior resembles the texture of traditional shearling. Faux shearling jackets are suitable for those who cannot afford the real shearling.
How to Care for Shearling?
To keep your shearling jackets looking and feeling their best, follow these care tips:
Regular Cleaning: Firstly, for regular maintenance, grab a soft-bristle brush and gently sweep away any dirt or debris from the wool side, keeping it fluffy and inviting. Then, for the leather side, a damp cloth works wonders to remove surface dirt without causing any damage.
Avoid Moisture: Remember, shearling isn’t waterproof, so it’s vital to shield it from moisture whenever possible. If it does happen to get wet, don’t panic! Simply allow it to air dry naturally, away from direct heat sources, to prevent any warping or damage.
Proper Storage: Store your shearling items in a cool, dry place. Use padded hangers to maintain the shape of jackets and avoid compressing the wool.
Professional Cleaning: For deep cleaning, take your shearling jackets to a professional cleaner who specializes in leather and shearling.
What if the shearling jackets have different linings?
For a jacket with a polyester or silk lining, you have to take extra care. Always check the care label first, as some linings may require dry cleaning.
If it’s safe to wash, use a mild detergent and cool water, then gently hand wash or use the delicate cycle in your machine. After washing, lay it flat to dry to maintain its shape.
If your shearling jacket has a cotton lining, it’s a bit easier to clean. You can usually machine wash it on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent.
Again, check the care label for any specific instructions. Once washed, hang it up to air dry or tumble dry on low heat.
Wrap it up!
Before purchasing a shearling jacket, it is important to know the characteristics of this incredible material and its type. I hope you’ve found this article useful in determining a good quality shearling jacket.
Shearling isn’t just about staying warm—it’s about embracing a luxurious experience that combines nature’s best offerings with human craftsmanship. So, go ahead and indulge in the stylish world of shearling leather this winter season! Whether you’re snuggling into a lamb shearling coat, zipping up a sheepskin bomber jacket, or rocking a faux shearling look, you’re in for a treat.
Shearling refers specifically to sheepskin that has been tanned with the wool still attached, while sheepskin typically refers to the hide alone, without the wool.
While shearling does include wool, it is not typically considered fur. Fur usually refers to the soft, thick hair covering the skin of animals like mink or fox, whereas shearling is a combination of wool and leather.
The main difference between sherpa and shearling lies in their composition and manufacturing process. Sherpa is a synthetic material made from polyester, acrylic, or a blend of both.
On the other hand, shearling is a natural material made from the skin of sheep or lambs that has been tanned with the wool still attached.
Shearling leather refers to a type of leather that comes from sheep or lambs and is tanned with the wool still attached. This unique tanning process results in a material that has both the soft, insulating properties of wool and the durable, supple qualities of leather.
While dry cleaning can be an option for shearling jackets, it’s not always necessary. In fact many shearling jackets can be maintained with regular at-home care.
Response