How to Style Faux Fur Vests (and Nail That Effortless Boho-Glam Look)
Faux fur has come a long way, and I think it’s one of the best fashion shifts in years. You get all the cozy, luxe texture of real fur but no animals harmed and no guilt, not to mention the new versions look so good you’d swear they were the real thing.
These days, faux fur vests are fun pieces to play with. They’re a cool, easy way to give your outfit a little extra flair, whether you layer one over jeans and a turtleneck, a sweater dress, or even a silky blouse. Here are some of the chicest faux fur vests I’m loving right now and how to style them.
Why Faux Fur Vests Are Worth a Second Look
What makes faux fur vests so fun is how they can instantly change the mood of an outfit. You can throw one over jeans or a simple knit dress, and suddenly you’re feeling a little boho-glam—that free-spirited, slightly seventies vibe that’s relaxed but still chic. And because they’re sleeveless, they’re perfect for layering when you want warmth without the bulk.
What to Look For
When you’re shopping, pay attention to the texture. I like a medium-pile fur that looks plush but not costume-y. Too short can look flat; too long can veer into shaggy territory. The finish should be matte rather than shiny—that’s what gives it that high-end feel.
Length matters, too. Hip-length styles are the easiest to wear because they flatter most body types and work over just about anything. If you’re petite, skip the super-long versions that hit mid-thigh—they can overwhelm your frame.
Style: Modern details like a high collar or an elegant chevron pattern downlplay the 70’s vibe and move it into 2025 glam.
And color? You can’t go wrong with neutrals like camel, cream, or soft gray, but don’t be afraid to have a little fun. A deep espresso brown or even a soft blush looks amazing layered over simple pieces.
How to Style a Faux Fur Vest
The beauty of a faux fur vest is how versatile it is. You can go classic, boho, glam, or even a little rock and roll depending on how you style it.
For casual days, I love the look of a faux fur vest with a fitted turtleneck, skinny or straight jeans, and ankle boots. It’s polished but still relaxed, and the vest gives the whole look a bit of edge.
Over a sweater dress, it’s effortlessly chic. Choose a dress that skims the body rather than clings, and add tall boots for balance. It’s a great combo for brunch, shopping, or even a casual date night.
Ultra plush Faux Fur vest – Donna Karan
If you want to dress it up, try layering your vest over a silky blouse and wide-leg trousers. Add heels and statement earrings, and you’ve suddenly got a look that could take you to dinner or a holiday event. Tone- on- tone, vest and dress, make your outfit look uber elegant.
And for a little rock-chic flair, You can wear one over a crisp white shirt with faux leather leggings and heeled boots. It’s simple, modern, and makes you feel like you could be heading backstage somewhere fabulous – what you’d wear to a rock concert.
How to Keep It Balanced
Because a faux fur vest adds volume, it looks great when your outfit is sleek and fitted. That means slim jeans, or wide leg jeans, the kind are fitted at the waist, snug across the the hips. Structured pants are always chic, but you can also go for a loungey look. Some gals are wearing wide flowy pants, but with a fitted top that sits close to the body to reduce bulk.
The best dresses to wear with faux fur vests also follow the body rather than float away from it. You can also always define your waist with a belt if the your vest feels too boxy.
If your vest has a lot of texture, it’s a good idea to let it be the statement piece and keep everything else simple. I tend to stay away from heavy prints or multiple textures when I’m wearing faux fur—it just looks cleaner and more chic that way. However, more boho or creative types may prefer a bit of texture like the brown dress I posted with the Donna Karan faux fur vest. That’s subtle, and it can work.
When and Where to Wear It
Faux fur vests work beautifully from fall right through to early spring. They’re perfect for travel because you can throw one over lightweight layers and instantly look pulled together when you arrive. They also transition easily from day to night—wear one with jeans and boots during the day, then swap in dressier shoes and jewelry for evening.
During the holidays, they are a glam alternative to a cardigan. A faux fur vest adds warmth and makes a simple outfit feel festive.
The newest way to wear one – with loungewear! Who would have thought? And this one I’m sharing above is reversible. Great idea!
Care and Storage Tips
Faux fur is easier to care for than you might think. Most vests can be spot-cleaned or gently hand-washed—just check the label. Always hang it on a sturdy hanger to help it keep its shape, and give it a light shake or brush now and then to keep it fluffy. When the season’s over, store it in a breathable garment bag, not plastic, so it doesn’t flatten out.
Final Thoughts
A faux fur vest is one of those little style secrets that can completely change your look. It’s cozy, cruelty-free, and so easy to wear. Whether you go for something neutral and classic or bold and fun, it’s an effortless way to add texture and glam to your fall and winter wardrobe.
I love Julie’s dress…where can I find that? What is the brand?
Hi Laurie,
Julie purchased her dress from Modcloth.com. The brand is Chica. However, she bought it over a year ago. If you can’t find it on Modcloth, you can always try a Google search of the term “Chica dresses” or look on eBay.
PS I think the high-low top is maybe even a bit harder to pull off- is it high due to our fuller fronts? I will be skipping the tops in this look- not sure how anyone except skinny types can pull off a top with this dramatic look (no preg issues at our age, at least…)
Please share Rebecca’s blog information. I have just found your site, and I love it! I am the owner of an online boutique and would love to share information about your site with many women. Our site caters to youthful customers; when women think they can’t wear our clothing because they are over 40, I want them to have resources supporting their style. I love how Rebecca looks in this chevron skirt and her youthful look, even at 48. Thanks so much for allowing me to post, and thanks in advance for your help. Keep up the great work! It is a mission.
I think the high low works for better everyone if it frames the most narrow part of the calf- just as any hem would- but it is more critical since the low back hem prepares your calf more than a swirling even hem would- noted that even skinny 20-something singer on July 4th particular looked calf heavy due to it hitting in the wrong place…
I love the look! She looks fabulous!! Her dress, the way she accessorized, everything looks great!! Just cut that tag out of the dress. . .
She Rocked It!!!!! She is not trying to look too young but has great style. I would love to have Rebecca as my go-to stylist.
Rebecca IS pretty in her high/low maxi dress. But it perfectly illustrates my comment from the first post on this topic. It just looks like a dress that could not decide what it wanted to be. She is not a fan of the look, even though she has pulled it off better than most.
Hi Wanda, I think this dress is for women with a dramatic streak. Personality has so much to do with how one dresses, and if you are dressing authentically, you will look good in this type of dress.