Astrakhan hat - how it is made, and what types there are

At all times, fur products were worth their weight in gold. A fur coat not only protected its owner from bad weather, but also testified to financial well-being and importance in society. Karakul gained popularity at the end of the 19th century and is still found in the collections of leading clothing designers. This fur is represented by many types, the most famous of which are astrakhan fur and broadtail.

History of the origin of karakul

The Karakul sheep was one of the first animals that people started breeding for their fur. The animal was distinguished not only by its beautiful fur, but also by its special unpretentiousness, which allowed it to perfectly adapt to the difficult living conditions in the desert.

The ancestor of all Karakul sheep comes from Uzbekistan, in the past – the Khorezm Khanate. The name of the fur also comes from those places. Translated into Russian, “karakul” means “black lake”. It was near this reservoir, located near Bukhara, that Karakul sheep began to be bred.

For many years, the right to breed these animals and produce expensive and beautiful fur belonged exclusively to the Bukhara Khan. And only many years later, already at the beginning of the 20th century, several individuals were sent to North Africa, in particular Namibia, where today, thanks to new technologies, a special type of karakul called “svakara” is made.

Karakul and broadtail - what's the difference?

It is known that karakul is made from the skins of newly born lambs of the karakul breed. For this process, individuals 1–3 days old are used. After all, the older the lamb, the coarser the wool. Each skin surprises with its special unique pattern, extraordinary lightness and silkiness.

However, not every person who is not involved in fur production issues will correctly answer the question: broadtail - whose fur?

Karakulcha is the same skins of lambs, but not yet born. It is not difficult to distinguish it from astrakhan fur: the curls are not yet formed, the hairs are short and tightly adjacent to each other, the skin has a beautiful moire pattern.

These two types of fur differ not only in origin, but also in consumer characteristics.

Types of karakul

Breeders involved in karakul breeding strive to consistently obtain large batches of identical skins that have the specified parameters and characteristics. It is not so easy. After all, the quality of scribble is determined by at least twenty parameters. In addition, fashion dictates its terms, constantly changing the demand for astrakhan of various types and shades. Today, three types of karakul are dominant on the market.

Uzbek karakul

The breed of sheep that supplies this fur was bred by specialists from Uzbekistan. Breeders tried to achieve lightness of fur, relying on the finest astrakhan jacket type with a special pattern. The surface of the skin consists of tight fur curls, forming tubular ridges of varying lengths.

Pros:

• unique design;
• thin light fur;
• fur hairs are pressed tightly against each other;
• strong flesh;
• affordable price.

Minus:

• small size of skins (11 dts2).

Afghan karakul (astragan)

This karakul is produced in Afghanistan. Thick fur of the highest quality is valued much higher than Uzbek fur. Skins usually range in size from 12 to 20 dt2. The fur surface is ribbed and flat, with an extraordinary eye-catching shine. Typically, Afghan karakul has a deep gray tint.

Pros:

• mesmerizing shine;
• thick flesh;
• high strength;
• large skins;
• spectacular fur.

Minus:

• heavy weight of the product.

South African karakul - swakara

This type of karakul is produced in the state of Namibia on the African continent. The surface of the fur is distinguished by amazingly clear parallel flat curls. The skins are canvases similar in thickness to broadtail.

Namibian karakul is the most expensive. It is mainly used to make fashionable coats and jackets for special occasions.

Pros:

• clear ribbed pattern;
• ease;
• small thickness;
• respectability.

Minus:

• high price.

Any high quality scribble is highly appreciated. However, swakara is considered the most expensive and prestigious fur, which not everyone can afford.

What kind of fur is Afghan karakul?

Some fashionistas have never heard of what Afghan karakul is, because the fashion for these fur coats died down back in the Soviet Union. But fashion trends for 2021-2022 are “reviving” fur coats made from this fur.

Afghan karakul is a type of sheep that grazes in the desert expanses of Afghanistan. There are also broadtail fur coats, which are made from the skins of a newborn lamb, which have a special texture and are distinguished by their softness and unusual pattern. This fur has good characteristics: skin thickness, weight, unique pattern, shine.

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Features of doodle

Astrakhan fur is distinguished by its unique texture, thickness and silkiness. Any product made from this natural material is unique, since the pattern of curls cannot be repeated. Things made from astrakhan fur look graceful and elegant, and also perfectly repel moisture. Light and warm, they allow air to pass through perfectly, and are as durable as regular sheepskin.

The main advantages of karakul:

• plastic material allows you to create a variety of models;
• ideal for decorating products;
• goes well with fabric and leather;
• allows you to create sophisticated and elegant clothes;
• Astrakhan products are suitable for any figure.

Winter clothing made from astrakhan fur is light and warm, but without special insulation it is hardly suitable for the harsh Russian winter. These are clothes most likely for the off-season, when outside the window is at least -10°C.

Price overview

A fur coat made from natural Afghan astrakhan fur is not cheap. Price range varies. You can buy a product for yourself, it’s better to buy new clothes. Astrakhan coats in fur salons cost from 30 thousand rubles and reach cosmic figures (120 thousand rubles).

The cost depends on the length of the item, the size, additional trim (for example, the sleeves are lined with mink) and even where you make the purchase.

You can save money and buy a fur product in the off-season, when it is warm outside, for example in spring and summer. Then you can buy a good fur coat from Afghan astrakhan fur with a real, not fictitious discount.

Do not deny yourself your most cherished desires. Add some chic to your look, and a new fur coat will help you achieve your plans

Well, now, knowing the advantages of astrakhan fur coats, you can watch this video, which shows what astrakhan fur coats look like and what natural color is inherent in them.
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Rules for caring for things made from astrakhan fur

The durability and respectable appearance of the product over the years depends on proper care and compliance with storage conditions in the summer. If your fur coat is significantly dirty, it is better to use the services of a specialized dry cleaner. However, it is quite possible to get rid of small stains and dust at home.

Here are some recommendations for caring for an astrakhan fur coat or coat:

• The surface of astrakhan or broadtail can be wiped with a sponge dipped in a soap solution.
• To remove dust, the product is laid out on a slightly damp sheet with the wrong side up and knocked out with rolled paper or a special plastic beater.
• By wiping the surface of the fur with a cotton pad soaked in a 5% vinegar solution, you can restore the original shine and silkiness.
• Contaminated areas are treated with starch. The greasy stain is covered with powder, lightly rubbed into the pile, and then cleaned with a clothes brush.
• To avoid creases and bald spots, it is not recommended to carry a bag on your shoulder or leave a brooch pinned in one place for a long time.

Under no circumstances should you wash, iron or comb the astrakhan fur. This will inevitably lead to damage to the product.

Fashionable models 2021-2022

There's nothing worse than an unfashionable item. Not every girl will wear even a beautiful fur coat if it is out of fashion. Therefore, before buying winter outerwear, you need to find out what styles of fur coats are in fashion this season.

It is already known which astrakhan fur coats will be in demand in the next two years. Don't miss the chance to create a stylish look. Be patient for the fashion forecast.

Astrakhan fur coats will be in fashion - this is the first good news. A flat curl (as if driven in fur) will be most valued.

Regarding the length, fur coats and sheepskin coats will be in trend. A trapezoidal silhouette of a medium-length fur coat with cut sleeves in the shape of butterfly wings. Medium length is the best option.

Color spectrum:

• Black color (natural);
• Dark gray color with shimmer;
• Cinnamon;
• Grif;
• White.

Multi-colored fur coats (painted with special paint compositions). Painted astrakhan is not an option. Please note that dyed fur cannot be wetted, it falls out quickly, such a thing can only be worn on an occasion, but not for everyday wear.

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It is worth focusing not only on the color scheme, but also on small details. For example, fashion dictates an unusual combination of materials. The fur coat can be made from astrakhan fur, and the sleeves can be made from a completely different fur. They will create contrast (if the fur coat is black and the sleeves are white). Also in fashion are additional accessories that match a fur coat with flat pile. This can be a wide belt (in the color of the fur product) or expressive buttons, a voluminous collar.

A fur coat made from Afghan astrakhan fur can be decorated with rhinestones and stones. Just there shouldn’t be a lot of decorations. Too bright is the style of the crow.

How many years will a fur coat made from Afghan astrakhan fur last?

A natural fur coat made from Afghan astrakhan fur can last a long time (maximum fifteen years). It all depends on your accuracy and frequency of going out in a fur coat. The products can be easily restored in the studio. If you decide to save a lot and want to purchase a faux fur coat, expect that the item will please you for a maximum of two seasons.

What is it like to wear - reviews?

In wearing, a fur coat made from Afghan astrakhan fur is not inferior to a mouton one. This means that it does not lose its shine and appearance after the first cold season. Positive reviews confirm this fact. A natural astrakhan fur coat is warm even when it’s very cold.

Many lovers of natural fur noted that astrakhan fur should not be compared with mink (this fur is a hundred times better). But there are also opposing reviews that demonstrate a different position.

Some fashionistas believe that wearing astrakhan fur is inhumane. That’s why they skin animals callously. It is worth understanding that animals are bred in order to make a profit (they get meat and skins, this is not illegal).

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Questions and answers

How to revive an astrakhan fur coat after a walk in wet snow?

If a fur coat made of astrakhan fur or astrakhan fur gets wet, it must be shaken off, ridding the fur of moisture and snow, and then hung on hangers to dry. Do not dry fur items near heating devices or under a hairdryer. Sudden temperature changes can lead to deformation and damage to clothing.

How to store products made from astrakhan fur or astrakhan fur?

As soon as the winter season is over, the astrakhan fur coat or coat is put away in the closet. The product is hung on wide soft hangers, and a fabric cover is put on top. A continuous supply of fresh air is very important for fur, so the fur coat should hang freely. In addition, care must be taken to protect against moths.

How to choose?

For women, shopping is their mission. Choosing a quality fur coat is very difficult. They repeat one mistake: they pay attention only to the external qualities of outerwear. Beautiful or ugly, but this is not the criterion that should play a decisive role.

Tips for women who are planning to purchase a fur coat from Afghan astrakhan fur:

• Pay attention to the seams (they should be noticeable and clear);
• Take a piece of another woolen fabric. Then rub the fur, if it begins to fray (at least one lint falls out), it means the product is of poor quality, most likely the skin was removed in the autumn (when animals shed);
• The color of the fur coat should not be dull;
• The fur coat should fit your size. For example, if you wear size 48, it is better to take a fur coat of size 50, because in winter you will wear warm clothes, and the fur coat should not be tight and restrict movement;
• The fur should be pleasant to the body, do not be shy, bring the fur coat to your face;
• Do not take a fur coat with a long hem, as over time the hem will wear out;
• Ask the seller for manufacturer information.
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How to store?

In order for an astrakhan fur coat to serve you as long as possible and not lose its presentability after several seasons, it must be stored correctly.

1. Be sure to clean the fur product from dirt.
2. Buy hangers with soft pads and provide plenty of free space in your closet for fur coats.
3. Do not allow other outer clothing to press down on the product (the fibers may be damaged).
4. It is strictly not recommended to store furs on the balcony, where the sun's rays fall.
5. Also think about the pier. It is everywhere, put a flavored tablet that will prevent insects from getting inside. How to properly store a fur coat from moths, read here.