- By Sarah Wade -

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Whether bona fide or faux, fur is undoubtedly experiencing a renaissance, with accessories being a must this season. Ear muffs and the traditional hand muff should top of every girl’s  winter wish list,  yet many may leave them off, as they’re possibly two of the trickiest seasonal pieces to get just right.

You might think hand muffs faded out in the early 1900’s, but some of the world’s most exquisite brands are incorporating them as essential parts of their winter collections. Fashion a-listers like Sarah Jessica Parker and Rihanna have embraced them too,and of course, Princess Diana, who famously teamed her hand muff with a sleek equestrian style coat.

Now we’re not saying that these appealing items should be always paired together, often they can speak for themselves in varying ensembles. However, if done right, and in matching fur, a complementary duo could take you from heedless to haute in one fell swoop.

Ear Muffs

Left: Prada F/W 11 Right: Alexander Wang F/W 11

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From J Mendel to London’s Caroline Charles, international autumn/winter ready-to-wear shows have been awash with super-cute ear muffs. As the mercury drops, consider making like Miuccia and go for a full-head alternative, complete with chin-strap, as seen at Prada. Even designer du jour Alexander Wang provided an update, using fur on the arms of sunglasses – these covetable items are currently the talk of exclusive ski resorts in Aspen and Courchevel.

Hair & Make-up

As an item of headwear, hair and make-up must be considered when rocking overtly furry ear muffs. Being a statement accessory, ear muffs demand simplicity in the hair stakes. Loose waves or tumbling curls work well, as do sleek straight locks with or without bangs. If your muffs accompany a little action on the slopes a high ponytail can look great, with tendrils left around the face to soften.
Subtle make-up in wintery hues will add to this appealing theme’s tone. Pinched cheeks and lips should be added to pale but neutral eyes with a splash of mascara and perhaps a flick of liner. Minimalism is key, creating a natural glowing look as if one’s taken a brisk walk in the cold.

Team Them With

Be careful not to over complicate – further volume around the neck or shoulders will not work with ear muffs. For a high-end, fashion-forward look, accompanying lines should be sleek and smooth. A versatile product for the city, ear muffs will mix effortlessly with everything from your best wool coat (a coat with oversized lapels will really make an impact!), to your edgiest leather biker jacket. Add a fine cashmere or even jersey scarf to keep the cold out but retain those smooth lines.

Hand Muffs

Left: J. Mendel F/W 11 Right: Alexandre Herchcovitch F/W 11