The timeless television commercials of
Dittrich Furs are instantly recognizable to Detroiters of all ages. Who can forget the glamorous skiier schussing down the slopes with a fur coat streaming behind her? Or the luxurious equestrian draped in a mink?
That's the point, says Hall Dittrich, the company's CEO. "The whole idea for all the commercials has been to create a fantasy for people that would make them want a fur," he says. "It's things people don't really do in daily life -- very much things that make them want to fulfill a fantasy."
Dittrich's family has owned the company since 1893. Its New Center location was opened in 1967 — a time that saw many other businesses flee for the suburbs. "My dad and grandfather and everybody was born and raised in Detroit," says Dittrich. "I think we just felt loyalty." His sons are poised to be the fifth generation to run the business.
Dittrich sells furs of all shapes and sizes and offers its customers lifetime service. There are generally 3,000 furs in stock at any one time. Most are imported from around the world, but the company manufactures approximately 250 of its own pieces each year.
Current trends include shorter coats, coats made of multiple types of fur, shearlings and slimmer profiles. "Everything is nice and supple and more lightweight than it used to be," says Dittrich. "People are more and more interested in quality."
Dittrich Furs is located at 7373 Third Ave. just north of W. Grand Blvd. Call 313-873-8300. Hours are typically Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. but they are open Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. through Christmas.
Source: Hal Dittrich, Dittrich Furs
Writer: Kelli B. Kavanaugh
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