The storage conditions are important, says Dennis Basso, who designs fur and faux-fur pieces in his high-end, ready-to-wear clothing line. If you don't take good care of your fur, says Mr. Basso, ...

And yes, says owner Jeff Latimer, 55, people still wear and buy furs — but you might not notice it because many of the furs are understated or reversible. “We are a fur retailer," Latimer tells me.