Up the Hygge

We begin our lives clinging to comfort, whether in the form of a favorite blanket or a teddy bear. But at some point, we’re told we’re too old to don the blanket cape or tote the teddy. Enter the fuzzy sweater and the teddy bear coat.

The Danish have a word for it — hygge — a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that causes a feeling of contentment or well-being.

During the winter months, when many of us would rather spend our days cuddled in a blanket versus going about our daily tasks, we can seek hygge in wardrobe form.

“You can’t bring your fuzzy blanket to work, but the fuzzy trend is so much fun because it gives our everyday fashion the teddy bear-inspired makeover,” said Debra Fortson, owner of Gigi’s Boutique & Eats in Pensacola. “It brings an element of coziness and comfort to our lives.”

In many ways, we are becoming like the animals these fabrics emulate, putting on our thicker hides and winter coats of faux fur, wool, shearling, fleece and mohair.

The trend, which Fortson refers to as “fluff-core” is cropping up on shelves and racks in the form of plush coats, floppy fur bucket hats, cozy chenille sweaters, faux fur-lined boots and shearling bags.

This “fur-effect” bomber jacket from Mango features a ribbed hem for a synched look. Photo courtesy of Mango

Pair a puffy faux fur bomber jacket with athleisure wear, or style it up with a knit dress and knee-high boots. Cozy up beside a bonfire in a fleece pullover and jeans, or wear a shaggy wool or mohair coat for that fresh, off-the-runway look. Fuzzy coats in bold colors make for the perfect statement piece in a winter outfit.

For those seeking something more casual, Fortson suggests pairing a furry sweater with a quality pair of jeans. Or you can go with the monochromatic look — a tan fur coat paired with varying shades of brown.

But if full fur is intimidating, opt for pieces with fur accents, such as a trench coat with fur-capped sleeves or a blazer with a fur collar.

Fuzz doesn’t stop at the outermost layer. Fuzzy accessories, especially handbags and shoes, are fun ways to embrace the trend.

A fuzzy purse in a bold hue adds a spark to a little black dress or a monochromatic outfit. Fuzzy sneakers and fur-lined boots keep your feet warm and give street credibility in the vogue department. The ultimate cozy shoe (besides the fuzzy house slipper) is the UGG — one of many trends from the early aughts that’s back on shelves in full force.

“What better way to fend off the winter blues and cooler weather than with this soft, cozy fluff-core trend?” said Fortson.

Give a warm embrace to fuzzy-filled fashion while you can — Florida’s hot and humid weather makes it hard to enjoy this trend for long.