Historians—the cool ones, who study clothing—estimate that human beings have been wearing shearling since prehistoric times. And given the skin’s unparalleled ability to keep you warm in the coldest conditions, it’s no wonder it’s had such staying power. Officially, shearling is the skin from a recently shorn sheep or lamb that’s tanned with the wool left on; the result is that one side is suede, while the other offers the soft, fluffy embrace of wool. It’s been used in everything from military-issue World War II pilot’s jackets to the often vilified (but undeniably cozy) Ugg boots that become increasingly visible this time of year. Herein, three ways to wear it without getting too hot under the collar.
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Urbane Cowboy
Image Credit: Janelle Jones While shearling is often associated with country life, it’s equally at home in the city as in a chalet. This luxe aviator jacket adds some kick to the classically elegant combo of a turtleneck and flannel trousers.
Brioni lambskin jacket, $8,500; Zegna cashmere turtleneck, $1,990; Ralph Lauren Purple Label wool-flannel trousers, $595; Valextra leather bag, $2,300; John Lobb leather boots, $2,110.
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Soft Power
Image Credit: Janelle Jones Want an understated take on the fuzzy hide? Pair a casual, inky-blue overshirt with a hoodie and wide-leg trousers for an off-duty look that wears its refinement lightly.
Giorgio Armani shearling jacket, $7,400, and wool trousers, $1,295; Alanui cotton-and-wool sweatshirt, $1,020; Vince cashmere cap, $165; Dior Men leather sneakers, price upon request.
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Tread Softly
Image Credit: Janelle Jones ‘Tis the season for hunkering down, and we can’t think of a more decadent accessory for padding around your pad than these sumptuous mules. (Tip: Pre-emptively gifting a pair to everyone in your household guarantees that no one will try to steal yours.)
Manolo Blahnik shearling-and-suede slippers, $695.
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Shifting Into Neutrals
Image Credit: Janelle Jones Forget that old rule about avoiding white after Labor Day—it’s a decidedly chic choice during the colder months. Play off shearling’s natural hue with creamy ecru jeans and a glossy tan down vest.
Herno nylon-and-down vest, $680; Dior Men shearling jacket, $8,900; Officine Générale cotton-and-wool sweatshirt, $250; Slowear chambray shirt, $370; Drake’s selvedge denim jeans, $450; Burberry metal-and-acetate sunglasses, $280; Ralph Lauren Purple Label leather boots, $1,895.
