For many, hearing the phrase “fur coat” produces a mental vision of the long, formal coats which have graced opera houses, red carpets, and other formal affairs for generations. But the truth is that furs come in a number of lengths, including full, three-quarter, waist-length, and even bolero. Choosing the fur length that is best for you is in part a matter of personal preference, but varying lengths will be suitable for different needs and/or occasions. As you decide which fur length is best, consider the following:

Full-Length Coats

Full-length furs, such as this Blackforest Ranch Mink, are best suited for formal occasions. They are also the length which will provide you the most warmth, given their coverage. Ankle-length coats are best for cold weather climates and seasons, although their warmth and softness will vary by fur type. A full-length fur coat is the ultimate in luxurious outerwear, adding grace and charm to any attire.

Three-Quarter Length Coat

A three-quarter length coat is the perfect choice for both casual and more formal occasions. This Michael Kors Brown Sheared Mink, for example, is stunningly beautiful without overpowering the attire beneath it. And what the three-quarter length coat loses in warmth, it makes up for in versatility. For decades, the world’s most fashionable women have been choosing three-quarter and other “mid-length” coats, finding them to be the perfect combination of elegance and casual chic.

Most three-quarter length coats hit at the mid-calf. They can be paired with everything from formal, full-length gowns to cocktail dresses to slacks to mini skirts. And the length still provides you with adequate warmth, making them the perfect “in-between” fur for those looking for multiple wear opportunities.

Waist-Length Coats

Waist-length coats are the perfect choice for those looking for the glamour of fur with the simple elegance of a more casual length. Waist-length furs still look great with formal styles, but they can also be paired with everything from jeans to a mini skirt and leggings to enhance your look. Plus, because shorter furs bring the eye upward, they are a great tool for focusing on your accessories.

Waist-length coats are also a great source of variety, as you can choose down jackets with fur trim to give yourself a more rugged option perfect for everywhere from the slopes to the city street. For example, this Guy Laroche hooded rabbit and fox fur down jacket is versatile enough for daily wear. Plus, the shorter length makes these jackets a great choice for extended use in a wide range of climates, as their reduced coverage makes them more spring and fall weather friendly.

Boleros

If you’re looking for something truly unique, consider adding a fur bolero to your wardrobe, such as this white mink fur shrug. The traditional bolero covers the shoulders and is worn open in the front, walking the line between outerwear and an accessory. Boleros are customarily made of mink and have shorter sleeves, giving them a distinct look.

One of the primary benefits of wearing a bolero is that it allows you to add glamour and warmth to your ensemble without truly covering you up. You can flaunt your gown or shorter dress without having a longer coat attract all of the attention. It is also, of course, perfect for day affairs or for cooler nights which do not require full outerwear. A bolero can even be worn on summer evenings in most climates, giving you year-round use for this beautiful coat.

The “bolero” label also covers a range of longer jackets that have a more conventional look, including ones which tie and zip in the front, and they can be found in varying fur types, colors, and styles. Boleros are perfect when paired with strapless gowns or shorter dresses, and they also look beautiful when combined with more casual blouses and jeans, giving you the perfect tool for adding style to any outing.

Regardless of the length of fur you choose, these outerwear selections are an incredible way to give you warmth, comfort, and beauty every time you leave the house. From ankle-length beauties to simple yet ultra-functional boleros, a fur coat can instantly take an outfit from standard to stunning.