Fur’s Back in Fashion: Malta’s Vintage Debate

In the heart of Valletta, at the bustling Mercantile Street, a peculiar sight has been catching the eye of passersby. Amongst the usual vintage treasures – retro cameras, antique maps, and classic records – fur coats have made a comeback. But this isn’t your typical fast-fashion fur. It’s vintage, and it’s sparking a debate.

Local vintage stores like Retroactive and Vintage Mood have seen a surge in demand for vintage fur. These aren’t newly manufactured furs, but rather, pieces that have been passed down through generations or sourced from deceased estates. The trend, driven by sustainability and nostalgia, is booming worldwide, and Malta’s vintage scene is no exception.

“We’ve seen a significant increase in customers asking for fur coats,” says Lisa Zammit, owner of Retroactive. “People are more conscious now. They want something unique, something with a story. And vintage fur fits that bill.”

But not everyone’s thrilled. Animal rights activists argue that even if it’s vintage, wearing fur sends the wrong message. “It normalises the idea that it’s okay to kill animals for their fur,” says Maria Attard, a local activist. “We should be promoting cruelty-free fashion, not encouraging the wearing of fur, even if it’s old.”

On the other hand, vintage fur advocates point to the sustainability aspect. “These furs have already been made,” argues Zammit. “By wearing them, we’re giving them a new life, reducing waste. It’s a more sustainable choice than buying a new, synthetic coat.”

some argue that the vintage fur trend is a form of cultural preservation. “Fur was a status symbol in Malta’s past,” says Dr. Joseph Aquilina, a local historian. “Wearing vintage fur is a way of connecting with our history, our heritage.”

So, where does that leave Malta’s fashion scene? In a grey area, it seems. While some embrace the vintage fur trend, others remain staunchly opposed. But one thing’s clear: the debate isn’t going away anytime soon.

“I think we need to have an open conversation about this,” says Attard. “About the ethics, the sustainability, the history. Because it’s not just about fashion. It’s about our values.”

Zammit agrees. “Fashion should make us feel good, but it should also make us think. And that’s what vintage fur does. It sparks conversation, it challenges us. And that’s a good thing.”