Jacques Ferber

The Tradition of Jacques Ferber

A proud tradition established 1879

In 1879, Jacques Ferber established the family fur business in Paris, France. By the time his son, Bernard Ferber, headed the business, their skill was such that they were selected to supply the renowned Parisienne designer houses of Chanel, Lanvin and Worth with their luxurious furs. From 1912 to 1939 patterns were exchanged from couture houses to the Ferber work rooms. Business was lucrative and Bernard's younger brother Jacques was sent to the United States to open a salon while Bernard's son Andre couriered patterns and fitting changes through Paris.

---

The Flagship Showroom

In 1911 young Jacques arrived in Philadelphia and by 1927 he and his wife Jean had purchased the flagship location of 1708 Walnut Street. At this time the Ferbers were known for their extreme attention to detail as well as their made to measure furs.

They embraced innovative techniques such as "let out" and integrated the use of ranch raised quality pelts. Jacques was joined by his older brother Bernard in the spring of 1941 due to the political climate of Western Europe. Andre Ferber remained in Paris as a member of the French Resistance. Though he was captured, he joined his father and uncle in Philadelphia in 1945, after his internment.

---

Expanding Style & Design

Andre Ferber's vision for the future included a collection of furs to please the opera matron as well as the young collegiate. He expanded the Ferber label to include ready to wear designs and "fun furs" while maintaining their custom design capacity. Andre and Ruth were joined by their sons Andre Jr. and Kenneth by the late 1970's.

Andre Jr. and Kenneth began to expand the business with two additional locations. Pamela Ferber joined the family as house designer in 1980. Then in the late 1990's, their wholesale division began production. In 2005 Ken and Pamela's daughter Jessica, entered the business as she finished her undergraduate at Drexel University for Design & Merchandising, thus insuring that the Ferber legacy will continue for another generation.