It used to be that pet fashion was mostly limited to a colorful collar. But these days, dogs (and cats) are showing that clothes aren’t just for people; today’s pet owners make sure their pets are stepping out in high style.
Although it started long before the pandemic, the lockdown accelerated the doggie-dressing dynamic. As pet adoptions spiked, so did sales of pet clothes and accessories. Even though their owners might have been wearing sweatpants to Zoom meetings, pets were showing off their style on social media.
From budget buys to high-end couture, pets fashion is taking a significant bite out of owners’ budgets. Not surprising, the lion’s share of those purchases are for dogs, although you do see the occasional well-dressed cat. (But he usually doesn’t look happy about it.)
Don’t expect this pet buying power to slow down anytime soon, either: According to Zulily, pet apparel is one of the fastest-growing areas of pet spending, with the sales of dog hoodies alone rising by 622% since 2017.
Ruffin’ It
So what is the well-dressed pet wearing? Here’s a look at some of the most popular pet fashion trends that make today’s Haute dogs look like they belong on a catwalk.
Twinning combinations
Double your fun when you dress like your pet! There are many ways to coordinate your outfits, from matching hoodies to Hawaiian shirts to jackets. Not ready to go that far? Start with matching bandanas — or you can even buy matching T-shirts designed for pets and their people. Whatever you choose, it makes a picture-perfect look when you pair matching patterns with your four-legged friend.
Designer duds
For the more discriminating pets, an off-brand outfit won’t do. Fortunately, more and more high-end fashion brands are starting to realize that! Louis Vuitton, Versace and Fendi are among the designers who are letting pets live in the lap of luxury — and look fabulous while doing it. From stylish leashes to coats and T-shirts, these fashion houses are stepping it up
Tie-dye
Here’s a hot fashion trend to dye for! Tie-dye brings the perfect summer vibe that shows a chill, playful side of life, and thanks to its renewed popularity, you can find tie-dye clothes for your pet for just about every occasion. From T-shirts, bandanas and pajamas to hoodies, vests and leashes, there’s no shortage of psychedelic fashion to show the world just how groovy your furry sidekick is.
Bright colors and graphic prints
Bold colors, unexpected contrasts and graphic patterns make great fashion statements for pets. No matter your pet’s shape, size or color, adding bright, eye-catching colors will make them stand out even more. Make your own personal fashion statement by mixing and matching colors and bringing out the fun side of your pet’s personality. It makes for photos that pop with an unexpected burst of visual energy.
Vests and coats
Keeping your pet warm and dry during cooler seasons is no problem — and you can keep them as stylish as they are comfortable. There’s a seemingly endless selection of choices, from warm, fleece-lined vests to puffy waterproof jackets with a soft cloth lining to coats with removable liners to adjust for temperature changes. Special features like pockets, zip-off hoods and built-in harnesses make this outerwear as functional as it is fashionable.
Sweaters
When the temperatures drop, it’s time to turn up the heat on pet fashion. Cooler weather brings more ways to let your little one strut their stuff, and sweaters are a great way to make a statement. From sleek cashmere to chunky cable-knit designs, give your pet a new look for fall and winter — and add some variety by playing around with which colors work best.
Accessories
For the dapper dog or the cool cat, the right accessories are essential. That might mean a stylish pair of sunglasses, an adorable hat, or a bow tie that pairs perfectly with your pet’s collar. And these stylin’ side items aren’t just about looking good; sunglasses can protect them from eye irritations like wind and dust; the right hat can offer protection from the sun and the bow tie — well, ok, that just looks cool. You can find a fun tie stand-alone tie or look for one that attaches to your pet’s existing collar.
Booties
No fashion discussion is complete without footwear, and pets are no exception. Booties are a great way to keep your pet’s feet warm and dry when it’s cold and wet outside, and they come in enough colors and styles that they’ll reinforce your pet’s fashion reputation.
Take Action
Dive deeper: See our 2021 list of The Top Dogs in Pet Fashion.
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