StyleBook BY KATHY REZNY The Essential Fur Gift Guide IS THE SEASON FOR HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Think twinkling lights, discount claims; however, once they leave town, you may still be in need festive parties, hot beverages, cold weather, exchanging gifts, of alterations, monogramming, or fur care services. Choose a furrier with ‘Tand the big smile on your favorite guy or gal’s face when you’ve an extensive in-stock inventory and a full range of professional, on-premise wrapped-up the perfect present. Here’s a few pointers on what’s sure to please services including storage, cleaning, repairs, and the ability to restyle older when shopping for a gorgeous fur, fine outerwear garment, or distinctive garments. A reputable furrier will forge a long-term relationship with you accessory. and be able to monitor the garment’s care. Where to shop Fur gifts with presence With more than 400 designers that include fur in their collections, fur’s Once you’ve selected your shopping destination, it’s time to peruse the myr- prevalence assures that mass marketers and specialty boutiques will be car- iad of gift options. This season’s diverse mix of plush pelts features exagger- rying some form of fur fashion. For fur trimmed accessories or boots, don’t ated silhouettes, a rainbow of color, contrasting textures, and jeweled embel- hesitate to shop the department stores. However, when you’re ready to find a lishments. From the little essentials – shrugs, vests, and wraps, to styles made beautiful fur coat that will be enjoyed well into the future, it’s time to find a for on-the-go or all-out glam – anoraks, duffles, or flirty flounces - you’ll find professional, full-service furrier. Furriers are experts in their field and not merely temporary holiday help. that there’s special something for yourself or your special someone. A local, independent fur retailer knows their product in terms of fur type, That’s the Holiday Wrap-up! Visit your local furrier to find perfect gifts for and garment construction and styling, which helps them help you in select- everyone on your list! ing a fur that flatters. Look for a furrier with an established brick and mortar presence in the Kathy Rezny, past president of the Associated Fur Industries of Chicagoland; board community. Most furriers are family-owned and operated, belong to local member, Fur Information Council of America, and co-owner of York Furrier, Inc., locat- civic organizations, and provide contributions to philanthropic endeavors. ed in the Elmhurst City Centre or in the Deer Park Town Center. For more information, Furs found at road shows and caravan sales may be tempting with their deep contact Kathy Rezny at 630-832-2200, or [email protected]. PHOTOS: YORK FURRIER, INC. LADY LUXE Left: Black Velvet Evening Jacket with Swarovski Crystal Overlay and Norwegian Fox Trim, Matching Fox Muff/Purse If casual ease is the norm, pick a poncho, tunic or vest to pair with jeans or skirts. For elegant evenings though, she’ll adore her adorned cape, stole or jacket. GREAT OUTERWEAR Right: Espresso Shearling Lamb Walking Coat with Toscana Trim For the sporty gal or guy, present a garment that’s truly functional. Choose a shearling, leather or cashmere, or consider a shapely down jacket or a rainsilk that reverses to feathered fox. These are playcoats with personality. 86 • Quintessential Barrington | QBarrington.com Interior decorating services lamp repairs UTES F IN RO M M Y L N O ! Y BarringtonV A I The S D I O right for T T US brightideas!ideas Your hometown lighting store! Open 7 days a week and located in Cary, IL on the corner of Rt. 14 and Three Oaks Road - next to Jewel • NEW Seasonal Decor has just arrived! Custom Custom Seasonal Seasonal • Interior Designs by Bountiful Home Decor Decor • Interior and Exterior Lighting • Accent Furniture • Accessories Contact us today for all your home decor needs at: 700 Northwest Highway | Cary, IL 60013 U.S.A Tel 847.516.2600 | Fax 847-516-1944 NC. I THE MODERN MINK Left: York Signature Style Golden dyed Mink Flounce with Natural Red Fox Hood Find a perfectly practical gift for the go-getter on your : YORK FURRIER, Y list. New production techniques - shearing, grooving, or veloured, along with great styling – boleros, blouson jackets and walking coats, combine to make mink a versatile gift for PHOTOS B the recipient to enjoy for years, or perhaps decades. LITTLE NECESSITIES Right: EMU Australia Shearling Earmuffs, Gloves, Coat and Merino Wool Scarf Accessories make a big statement. Give oversized fluffy fox trooper hats, European-style long scarves, and luxe leather handbags with unique hardware. Earmuffs and gloves make perfect stocking stuffers. QBarrington.com | Quintessential Barrington • 87.