In much of the world where winters can be harsh and the prevailing winds send a chill down the back of the neck...warm fur scarves are almost a must.

Although scarfs can be found in wool, cotton, pashmina, silk, cashmere or some other knitted fabrics, there is no denying that the warmest option would probably be a fur. After all, these soft, cozy garments have been popular for centuries in most countries of the world. Even throughout history where the climates were fairly warm, these "fashion" statements were a symbol of wealth and prosperity worn by royalty and the wealthy.

The nice thing about a scarf, cape, coat or stole is that they are warm as well as stylish. They look almost regal and majestic. Worn with an overcoat or sweater, they add an extra touch of elegance. They can be thrown over the shoulder and wrapped once or twice around the neck or they can be brought around the neck from behind and tied once to hang loosely in front. They can even just be thrown over one shoulder in their most basic way to wear them. Either way their worn...the person wearing it will be noticed.

These fashion statements are most commonly made from mink, but can be made from other types such as fox, beaver, sable, otter, chinchilla, rabbit or even bear. Many garments made today are fake (faux) and are almost just as comfortable as the real thing. The faux or the real, come in all sorts of colors including black, brown, grey, reddish brown, white and many shades in between.

These garments tend to conjure up memories of Siberian winters or jet-setters or movie stars or the wealthy of the twenties as shown in some movies. However, they are still fairly popular, and becoming more popular all the time. Not only in Europe and in the East, but in many fashion circles of the West as well. More and more are being sold all the time.

Even though the genuine thing will last a long time and provide great warmth...imitations are quickly taking their place. In many crowds this is not seen as less luxurious, but merely more affordable and practical.

However, there is no denying the classy, elegant look of a fine (real) fur. It can be one of those things that really sets a person out from the crowd, either in a hotel ballroom or a fine restaurant.

So, what are the different choices of fur's available for the discerning woman and man? Well, the obvious are scarves, shawls, capes, stoles, ponchos and almost anything a person with an imagination could possible think of. And,they don't have to be 100% to look great. Even a just a soft collar can add elegance to a pashmina or silk shawl. Many also have nothing but rabbit or mink tassles or balls hanging from the hems of the garments.

Fur scarves look exotic, are warm, and make the person wearing it feel great. What more could anyone as for?