The Recall Desk
SevereCPSC·95081·Announced 1995-02-15

Michael Simon Faux Fur Sweaters Recalled for Fire Hazard

Michael Simon is recalling 907 faux fur sweaters because the fabric fails flammability standards and burns rapidly.

What this means for you

Illness, injury, or structural failure has been reported. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall involves a structural defect (flammability) in a consumer product with a reported burn injury, meeting the criteria for 'Severe' (significant injury reports).

Plain-English summary

Michael Simon Inc. is recalling 907 faux fur sweaters in four styles, including three cardigans and one pullover. The garments fail to comply with the flammability standard under the Flammable Fabrics Act. CPSC tests determined the faux fur fabric is "dangerously flammable" and unsuitable for use as clothing due to rapid and intense burning.

CPSC learned of the issue while investigating a burn injury involving one of the recalled sweaters, reported by the Northbrook, Illinois, Fire Department. The agency and the company are not aware of other injuries involving these sweaters. The affected styles include Style #7348 Spot Cardigan, Style #7384X Puppy Cardigan, Style #9047 Fur Cardigan, and Style #9048 Fur Popover pullover. The sweaters feature sewn-in neck labels reading "MICHAEL SIMON NEW YORK" and indicate they were made in Hong Kong or China.

The sweaters were sold by approximately 100 retailers nationwide from July 1993 through October 1994 for $175 to $200. Major retailers including Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, Lord and Taylor, and Loehmann's sold the items. Consumers should stop wearing the sweaters immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund. Questions can be directed to Michael Simon at (212) 382-1910.

The recalled product

Product
CPSC, Michael Simon Inc. Announce Faux Fur Sweater Recall
Manufacturer
Nordstrom

Distribution

Distributed nationwide across the United States.