Cortina's Fur Tradition: Snoop Dogg Joins Elite Fashion

Cortina d'Ampezzo, nestled in the Dolomites, is experiencing the Winter Games as a backdrop to its enduring fur fashion tradition. This upscale mountain town has long integrated fashion and fur into its cultural identity, a trend echoed in cinematic history and local boutiques. High-end stores on Cortina's main street display a variety of real and synthetic furs, with garments costing up to 80,000 euros.

While much of the world moves towards eco-friendly alternatives due to ethical and environmental campaigns, and the EU considers banning fur farming, Cortina remains a sanctuary for fur enthusiasts. Shoppers like Paola De Leidi, a longtime visitor, express feeling safe and free to indulge in unique fur pieces. This sentiment is echoed by shopkeepers who note the town's unique atmosphere.

Celebrities are also drawn to Cortina's distinct style. Rapper Snoop Dogg recently purchased a fur hat for approximately 300 euros, further highlighting the town's blend of traditional fashion and modern celebrity appeal. His acquisition aligns with his personal flamboyant style, though the global fashion industry, with brands like Gucci and Prada moving away from fur, presents a stark contrast.

The European Commission is reviewing measures against fur farming and trade, with bans already in place for cat and dog fur in the EU and US. However, in Cortina, generations of residents, like Marina Bozzoli and Orietta Guarini, have maintained fur as a wardrobe staple, a tradition that continues despite evolving global attitudes.