This winter's hottest dog fashion trends – The Age

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This was published 5 months ago
As we humans start to dig out our scarves and snow jackets to see us through the colder months at the dog park, there’s no shortage of apparel available for fashion-conscious fur babies.
But more than just a bit of fun as you parade your pooch around the dog park, many short-haired breeds benefit from clothing to keep warm.
“We’ve been doing dog apparel for 15 years,” says Pia Dwyer, creative director of DGG (Doggone Gorgeous).
“Fifteen years ago, pets slept outside, and you might put jeans and braces on them for a laugh at a party. Now we design pieces for the comfort of the pet. Pets have become members of our families so we’re creating fun and functional ways for the owners to cater for their fur babies.”
Here she talks us through some key trends you’ll spot on the cat dog-walk this winter.
While humans sport tights and puffer jackets, the athleisure trend is also making its mark in fur-baby fashion.
Activewear isn’t just for owners, with dogs rocking comfy fits in funky colours.
“Combinations of three or more colours provide a bright look that brings a joyful quality to products,” Dwyer says.
“Coloured athleisure for dogs mimics what we are doing with leggings and puffer jackets.”
While there’s plenty of fun to be had in fashion, practicality is always essential for outdoors time in a wet, cold winter.
Say goodbye to wet, muddy fur by using a utilitarian vest or jacket to protect your dog from the elements, while also looking chic.
“These jackets are waterproof with insulated linings and are comfortable to run in and wear for a long period of time,” Dwyer says.
“[We’re seeing a lot of these] durable accessories with heritage details for pet owners looking to take advantage of winter camping trips.”
Where utilitarian jackets were once typically sold in tan or camel, Dwyer says brighter colours are starting to make an entrance.
“It used to be ‘We’ll buy the brown or black or navy’ but now it’s ‘My Great Dane girl needs a pink Sherpa’,” she says.
Keeping warm never looked so good.
Just like we flock to merinos as the mercury dips, you can expect to see plenty of pooches rocking cosy knits this winter.
“Everyone loves a cuddle and if your [dog is wearing] a knit, it’s lovely and soft and comfy for them, and the compression can help dogs feel relief from anxiety,” Dwyer says.
“From chunky knits to roll-neck designs, the sweater is a timeless essential with handcrafted appeal.”
Just like humans use jewellery to enhance a look, dogs are now getting in on the accessories trend (like this matching coat, harness and lead combo) with everything from matching leads and collars to bowls, beds and jackets.
“Australians prefer things that look smart, while being good quality and comfortable for their dogs,” Dwyer says. And what’s smarter than a complete look from snout to tail?
“Gorgeous and great for an Insta moment”. (Credit: Wriggley Diggley)Credit:Wriggley Diggley
After looking after a greyhound and spending time with her brother’s whippet, Dwyer was struck by how cold this breed gets. Headwear can be the perfect way to combat this.
“They sleep a lot and are very susceptible to the cold,” she says.
“I noticed my brother’s whippy loves to have his ears covered so we designed a jacket that could fold up and cover his ears, which reduced his anxiety, so he kept snoozing. Then we thought, ‘What about a scarf that goes under the jacket that he can put up over his ears when he gets cold?’ And he totally loved it.”
This year, Dwyer’s gone a step further with hoods with fluffy pom poms.
“It’s pretty gorgeous and great for an Insta moment,” she says.
“But of course, if your dog doesn’t like it, don’t use it. My brother’s dog and the greyhound I fostered loved it, but it doesn’t mean all dogs will like it – it has to be right for your dog.”
PETstock’s 2022 winter range is now in-store and online. New season clothing, accessories, and furniture for your pet.
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