In the early oughts (00’s) Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie made pet fashion a big deal when their pets became a regular on the hit reality show, The Simple Life. Fashionable carry bags/purses/backpacks – you name it – became an accessory paired with a miniature breed of some sort. Not only were pets being tagged along everywhere, but the pups were dressed for success too. From cold-weather jackets and booties to stylish leash and collar sets, pet owners can find a wide variety of luxury pet fashion. 

Fashion designers like Ralph Lauren, Gucci and Armani have all created haute couture lines for pets, and it seems dogs are the preferred pet to play dress-up with. Pet clothing is now more popular than ever and you can thank the pandemic for that.

As much as people want to spend money on their homes, they also feel more inclined to invest in some stylin’ outfits for their pets. With more people working from home, pet owners have also spent more time with their pets, rekindling and bonding with man’s best friend. 

Some people are going so far as to give their pets their own Instagram accounts. Some being really popular. Check out Boobie Billie, It’s Juniper the Fox, Jiff the Pomeranian or Guinness World record-holding Nala the cat. Other fashion famous pets include the late Karl Lagerfeld’s Choupette, and Jason Wu’s Jinxy and Peaches.   

Fashion Week   

High fashion is a big deal in pet fashion. It is an emerging market and owners are willing to invest thousands in their pet’s wardrobe. Dressing your pet is essentially an extension of your personality. There is even a pet Fashion Week annually in New York City to celebrate the clothing made for animals. 

Cecilia Rodriguez writes “Woolen coats, hooded jackets, striped t-shirts, cashmere polos all in exclusive designs and made-to-order for each pooch according to size and breed, and to match the owner’s elegance and style are among the offers of the new Italian sartorial experience for human and dogs by Temellini Dog A Porter“. This fashion house works from dog-shaped mannequins to create various sizes for different breeds. Clothing for your pet can start in the 100s of Rands with a Versace raincoat for your furry friend coming in at around R5850.  

Keep Em’ Warm  

Designer clothing aside, clothing your pet is a good idea if it gets cold. Whippets, for example, hate the cold and will freeze if their already fat-free bodies are not kept warm with a hoodie or jacket in the cooler months. Fashion Week Online shares “This is a practical side of using pet wear. In case you are often going for a walk with your pet when it is cold and windy outside, it is necessary to wear a coat on your pet. If you are searching for a new costume for your four-legged friend, pay attention to its size and style. Moreover, some little pets might also need to wear footwear to avoid undercooling and snuffling”.  

Paw Benefits  

Other than keeping your pet warm by helping to regulate their body temperature, there are other benefits too. Protecting your pet’s fur and skin may be necessary, especially in light-skinned pets who can get sun burnt easily. A lightweight shirt in summer can also protect your animal from insect bites and other irritants found in the garden or out on a hike.  

PetMD warns that owners must always ensure a good fit. Clothing that is too big or too small can cause injury and even death. They conclude “Is there anything pets love more than being the centre of attention? No? We didn’t think so. Dress your pet up and he’s sure to receive tons of attention from anyone he comes across”.  

Invest in your pet. Find more HOMEMAKERS pet tips and advice here.