Fur coat

Fur coat

　　Zhaotong fur coats have a long history and are well-known local products in Yunnan, Sichuan, and Guizhou provinces. According to local historical records and investigation data from the industrial sector on Zhaotong's fur trade, Zhaotong fur coats began production during the Hongwu era of the Ming Dynasty when southern expeditionary troops brought over the relevant techniques upon entering what is now Zhaotong—over 700 years ago. The main materials used in producing Zhaotong fur coats are either sheepskin or lamb skin. Coats made from mature sheepskin feature dense, coarse fur with a tightly-knit structure and sturdy texture, making them suitable for rural wear. In contrast, those made from lamb skin boast silvery-white tips, vibrant hues, delicate and smooth leather, and excellent insulation properties. Particularly distinctive are the naturally formed curls in the lamb fur, which resemble various patterns and exhibit diverse textures, showcasing the wonders of nature—a hallmark feature of Zhaotong lamb fur coats. Since the 1980s, improvements have been made to the traditional manufacturing process by adopting new scientific methods, resulting in enhanced product quality. However, current challenges include styles, designs, and processing techniques that do not fully meet the demands of modern lifestyles, leading to difficulties in market sales. Nevertheless, both domestic and international markets continue to show growth trends in fur coat sales, presenting favorable opportunities for the development of Zhaotong’s fur coat industry. It is essential to strengthen the competitive edge of Zhaotong’s fur processing plants from a modern economic perspective and restore and expand production. (Zhaotong)