The main reasons for the significant increase in sales of dog clothing are our tendency to humanize our pets and treat them as an integral part of the family, increasing concern for their health, and the influence of influencers on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok that encourage pet parents to buy them clothes.
The global fashion market for pets, mainly dogs, has grown in recent years, and as of 2021, it was valued at over $5 billion and is expected to exceed $7.5 billion in the next 7 years (until 2031).
"Pets have become an integral part of our family, and there is a trend of humanizing animals," says Tzili Sperman, Brand and Lifestyle Manager at Biotop, which produces and markets food and supplies for pets. "People tend to relate to animals and buy them things, whether it's food, accessories, or clothes similar to products they would buy for themselves".
Gucci, Versace, and Christian Louboutin
Items like sweaters, coats and raincoats, shirts and vests are the most common and can now be found in every pet store. But in recent years, we also see a growing trend of designer clothes specifically for our dogs. Brands like Gucci, Versace, Celine, Tommy Hilfiger, and even the shoe brand Christian Louboutin have launched capsule collections tailored for our best furry friends.
Moreover, some of the collections of high-end brands were created inspired by the designers' own pets. For example, Gucci's collection of sweaters, coats, and accessories was inspired by creative director Alessandro Michele's dogs, and the variety of leashes, harnesses, and bowls from the brand Celine, designed by Hadi Slimane, were created for his Bulldog.
Going to events with a high-end brand outfit
This is not just a trend that high-end brands have adopted. Streetwear brands like H&M, Urban Outfitters, Adidas, and others have also adopted the trend and designed collections for dog clothing. Also in Israel, brands have joined the trend and released special collections for dogs, one of them being the BOSS brand that came out with a campaign a year ago for a collection of clothes and accessories for dogs.
Beyond the humanization of dogs and treating them as an inseparable part of the family, another reason for the rise of this trend also stems from changes in the demographics of pet owners. In Britain, for example, almost two-thirds of those who recently got a pet are aged 16 to 34.
"This is a generation that very much loves to express themselves in different ways and their dogs are also a way of self-expression", says Tzilil. "Young people tend to take their dogs to various events and even integrate them into private events (weddings, birthdays, brit milah) and most of them choose special outfits to make the dog look cool and stylish just like them. Furthermore, there are also those who even take care to dress them in matching outfits to create a cooler effect".
How to choose an outfit for your dog:
Color - If you are planning to go on a trip with your dog, no matter what the weather is like, your dog's outfit needs to be very practical. It's better to choose clothes in dark colors as they are much more stain-resistant and likely to last over time.
Size - Size is one of the most important characteristics to consider when buying an item for your dog. Always choose clothes according to the breed and proportions of your pet. If there is a specific garment that your dog tries to take off or constantly plays with, it's probably uncomfortable for him so it's better not to buy it. Remember - comfort comes first, just like when you buy clothes for yourself!
Gender - Most people choose clothes for their dogs according to their gender. For example, it's common for female dogs to buy pink clothes or clothes with flowers and "feminine" motifs, but think outside the box and consider other patterns and colors for your dogs. The main thing is comfort.
Fashion - even the clothes of pets are greatly influenced by the hot fashion trends of the fashion world. You can get inspiration on the internet or on social media and find unique items for your dogs.In Israel, there are several brands for accessories and clothes for pets, one of them is RIBOS from Biopet, who recently launched their winter 2023-24 collection offering a variety of quality, practical, comfortable, and warm clothing.
The winter clothing collection comes in six sizes each. Among the models in the collection, you can find items influenced by urban style with a sporty twist, such as fashionable coats combining pastel colors that can be worn on both sides, warm sweaters, coats with various patterns, a raincoat for dogs, and more.
Recommended prices for consumers of the collection start at NIS 59. Available at selected pet stores.