When my family brought home a wheaten terrier puppy we named Maple, I picked a ditzy pink Rifle Paper Co. collar for her thick, fluffy coat. She outgrew the collar, so I replaced it with a golden-clasped, sunny floral one, envisioning how cute she'd look at the farmer's market or on walks in the neighborhood.
"Dogs are oftentimes seen as an extension of our personal style, self-expression, and wider family," Tommy Hilfiger said in a statement after the brand released its first pet collection in April 2023. The collection featured all-American prep styles such as classic polos and branded hoodies, monoblock sweaters, and a bright red raincoat.
The day I stood in the aisle, greeted with numerous collar and leash choices at my local pet store, I knew my dog needed a collar reflecting my tastes. Most recently, I have been looking at the Bridgerton Maxbone leash set, inspired by the addictive series on Netflix. While I love the show, I love this set even more–powder blue with a floral Toile print and a jacket with Bridgerton patches. It's romantic and chic, making me picture strolling through a wooded park or garden with my dog.
Pet fashion is not just a niche market anymore. A quick search online reveals hundreds of landing pages touting canines and cats in parka coats, costumes, and hand-smocked dresses—causing my children to beg and plead we dress our dog Maple up. And why not? Dressing pets in weather-appropriate clothing, like sweaters and raincoats, shields them from the elements, while birthday hats and tutus are irresistible for pictures and special occasions. (Ensure your pet is comfortable and their movement isn't restricted too much, so they can still run, jump, and play freely.)
For the fashion-forward pup who loves to make a statement, designer doggy sunglasses are becoming all the rage. From retro cat-eye frames to aviator-style shades, these accessories look adorable and protect your dog's eyes from harmful UV rays.
There are so many fun trends happening in pet fashion right now—from Hamburger and French Fries-Themed looks to festive sports looks, there's something to fit every pet owner's tastes. Customizable necklaces and collars can also highlight a pet's personality.
A bandana is one of the easiest, most relaxed ways to dress up your pet. My favorites are irreversible options. Bandanas are stylish but purposeful, too. They catch drool, offer warmth in the winter, soak down in summer, and protect from bugs, fleas, and parasites. Reflective or bright bandanas can help drivers see your dog at night or off-leash.
As September ushers in the first hints of fall, dog fashion takes on a cozy, autumnal vibe. This month is about transitional pieces that blend summer's playfulness with fall's warmth. Maple's wardrobe now includes a lightweight plaid flannel shirt perfect for crisp morning walks and pumpkin patch visits. I've also added a few autumn-themed bandanas to her collection – one adorned with cute little acorns and another featuring a pattern of colorful falling leaves.
Many people like to have options for their pet, their baby. If you feel that you need any of these feature looks for your fur baby, just head over to Pixie Sticks Dog Boutique, a brick-and-mortar shop in Gilbert (Recker & Williamsfield), and a "click and brick" website offering a carefully curated selection of pet goods.
Since so many owners want to pamper their pets these days, pet fashion is clearly here to stay.