I have to confess, I have the matchy-matchy gene – color co-ordination satisfies something deep in my soul – so the idea of stepping out with Bodie sporting a mini-me ensemble is highly appealing. And actually can be done with great panache…
Here are our 6 favourite looks for Fall 2016!
1. HIMAYALAN KNIT
Chews Happiness offer unique yak down fashion from women artisans Bhutan aka The Land of Happiness. I got to feel some yak down earlier this month and it’s surprisingly fine and creates an almost cotton like texture that offers more warmth than alpaca and is kinder to the planet than cashmere! The Dramey Unisex Scarf (see above) features the Bhutanese pattern known as the Endless Knot. “With their kind souls, dog lovers perfectly embody this symbol, which reflects a compassionate heart and the belief that one’s actions and the universe are intertwined.” Happiness Hugs™ doggie sweaters gently cuddle dogs 3 to 25 pounds.
2. KHAKI QUILTING
Canada Pooch make outstanding outerwear for dogs and the Cityscape Coat cuts a major dash with its water-resistant shell, luxurious sherpa lining and a handy pocket for treats/bags. Team with this lightweight Trespass Ladies Bronwyn Quilted Jacket featuring Coldheat insulation technology for just £34.99 from Great Outdoors.
3. BURBERRY CHECK
The Worthy Dog offer this clever take on the tan plaid shirt with buttons set along the dog’s back. (There’s also a a tan plaid dress with a black bow and a matching collar and leash set with woven ribbon and nickel-plated hardware)! British brand Burberry have their classic check in a slim fit stretch cotton shirt for £195 or $295.
4. DENIM & SUEDE
Now this is something special! Mister Migs is a Georgia-based non-profit dog clothing company with a keen green angle using recycled denim as its core fabric. Thanks to their collaboration with Wow In-Sync Inc they provide real-life work experience to marginalized youth, empowering them to pursue their career and life passions! This Echo Tailor Sport number would look super-stylish trotting alongside you in a denim jacket or dark wash jeans, but I also like this Anthropologie Montana Chambray Shirt (£118 or $138) with the belt echoing the pup’s cool suede detail.
5. BERRY FLEECES
A fleece is a dog-walker’s best friend – light, cosy, and oh so easy to wear. I always find myself opting for navy or neutrals but when Bodie got his first Eggplant fleece from Gold Paw Series it made me want to hop on the berry bandwagon – why not brighten up a chilly day? The Stretch Fleece line ($20.50-$36.50) has a bold color range from Marine Blue to Pumpkin Orange and I can vouch for the velvety softness and great fit. For the human torso, I like the tapered cut of this Wild Berry Jack Wolfskin Gecko Jacket, currently reduced from £50 to £35 at Cotswold Outdoor.
6. BLANKET STYLING
It’s a curious thing to find yourself envying your dog’s wardrobe options… Ever since I saw Pendleton’s Pet Collection celebrating the National Park Service’s 100th Anniversary I’ve been wishing myself four-legged and furry. I was therefore thrilled to discover that select matching human attire is also available! This Glacier National Park Blanket Wrap emulates Pendleton’s first blanket design from 1916, and its just as striking today with its primary stripes and black felt binding. ($299)
Here’s Fido’s version: the Glacier National Park Dog Jacket combining Polarfleece with a quilted canvas backing and adjustable fasteners for a snug fit. ($49-$69)
Photo: Orvis
And then there’s the National Park sock range with cushioned foot bed ($12.50) in fun stripy designs aligned with 10 of USA’s 59 National Parks including L-R Glacier National Park (matching above) Great Smokey Mountain, Yosemite, Yellowstone, Badlands and Grand Canyon. Which in turn matches…
This entire ensemble from the Pendleton Pet Collection! (Click here to read more about this exceptional range which includes dog beds, collars, and leashes.)
I also love the commemorative Beanies for a ‘warm noggin’! ($19.50) Here’s Grand Canyon sunset-orange design again along with the rainbow hues of Crater Lake.
Now if only Ralph Lauren would re-issue their classic stars and stripes grey knit sweater so Bodie and I could fly the flag together…
Would you consider wearing matching dog-walking fashion to your pup?