Faux or Fur

Image by LunaDiRimmel via Flickr

There have been a lot of discussions, both personal and professional, stirring on whether it is okay to purchase these luxurious garments made from animal's fur or hides.  I, personally, am torn.  There are so many amazing pieces out there, especially when it comes to boots, jackets and handbags.  With real leather having such an amazing look, feel and lasting quality, it is hard to go back to faux.
Then there are the furs! Although never appealing to me in the past, in recent trends amazing vests and even boot linings have been exposed.  However, my ethics have yet to allow me to purchase anything.
For those of you who don't know, or who believe the materials used to make these items are coming from dead or 'used' animals, they are not.  Like fabric, most design houses sources animals for these materials.  Without getting too graphic, it is a sad tale.
What do you think? How do you feel? Do you research companies prior to purchasing garments with these fabrics? Would love to hear your thoughts...