Furry bags are the must-have accessory for autumn/winter 2018

The fuzzy stuff is migrating from coats to clutches

Balenciaga had some fun with the trend on the runway (Rex)

Amid growing concern surrounding the use of animal fur in the fashion industry, a number of high-profile brands have banned it from their collections.

From Coach to Burberry to Gucci, more and more luxury labels are addressing public demand by starting to phase out the use of real pelts.

But, that’s not to say the faux stuff isn’t still considered fashionable.

Almost an exclusively winter material, the industry’s fixation with fluffy titbits continues to dominate, but this time round the fuzzy stuff is migrating from coats to clutches.

It seems that the days when it was considered chic to carry an unassuming purse are long gone because this season’s handbags are anything but boring.

At British faux fur fashion label Shrimps, the trend saw everything including pretty pink print purses covered in the stuff, while Oscar de la Renta opted for super sleek furry spheres swinging from chains.

Faux Fur Frame Tortoiseshell Shoulder Bag, £25, Topshop

Elsewhere, other designers covered everything from backpacks to fluffy totes in colourful bursts of fur. At Dolce & Gabbana, this meant blinged-out logos pressed onto mint green fuzz, while Dries van Noten opted for shaggy yellow and Jeremy Scott rocked the runway with risqué neon.

Teddy Faux Fur Bucket Bag, £25, Topshop

Fans of the look will be glad to hear that this is one of those trends that looks just as good in real life as it does on the runway.

Sure, an in-your-face furry tote might not have the same timeless appeal as a classic black leather option, but it sure is fun.

Tan Faux Fur Hobo Tote Bag, £29.99, New Look

When looking for the perfect one, we suggest researching which high street stores are fur-free first of all – Asos, Marks & Spencer and H&M are a few – and then considering exactly how you want it to fit in your wardrobe.

Faux Fur Handbag, £19.99, Zara

The easiest, and arguably the most stylish way, to incorporate a furry bag into your everyday look is to stick to traditional styles and colours that will prove practical and versatile. Totes, cross-bodies and clutches will all add a touch of luxury to your autumn accessory collection, while neutral shades of black and brown promise they’ll go with almost anything you already own.

Faux Fur Handle Mini Bag, £79, & Other Stories

Combine yours with cosy knitwear and chunky boots for a relaxed weekend look or use it to accent a super-glam evening outfit such as a satin slip dress and heels.