A Brief History of Pet Fashion: From Royal Lapdogs to Runway Pups

A Brief History of Pet Fashion: From Royal Lapdogs to Runway Pups

A Brief History of Pet Fashion: From Royal Lapdogs to Runway Pups

When we think about dogwear today, it’s easy to picture cute prints, matching accessories, and that all-important Instagram moment. But pet fashion actually has a rich (and surprising!) history that spans cultures, centuries, and some very stylish four-legged friends.

Let’s take a little walk through time…

🐕 Ancient Egypt: Practical & Powerful
Some of the earliest depictions of dogs in decorative collars date back to ancient Egypt. These weren't just for flair—collars were used to protect pets from wild animals and to mark their value. Royal dogs often wore elaborate collars as symbols of wealth and loyalty.

A statue of an ancient Egyptian dog adorned with an ornate collar, showcasing the early roots of pet adornment in one of the world’s oldest civilisations.

🏰 The Renaissance: Prestige & Portraits
During the Renaissance, lapdogs became status symbols—especially among the aristocracy. Tiny spaniels and toy breeds were often seen in oil paintings perched in the arms of royals, dressed in embroidered wraps and bejewelled collars.

A full image of Queen Elizabeth II with two corgis beside her, both wearing bejewelled crowns—a regal nod to the cultural impact and iconic styling of royal pets

🇫🇷 19th Century France: Couture Begins
Parisian high society began crafting more ornamental petwear in the 1800s. This era marks the shift from practical to playful. Dogs became an extension of one’s fashion sense, mirroring the lavish details of their owner’s garments.

Dogs strut the runway alongside fashion models, dressed in coordinated ensembles that highlight the integration of petwear into high fashion culture

🧥 The 20th Century: From Function to Flair
In wartime eras, dogs were often dressed in utility-focused gear to protect them from the cold or dirt. But as pop culture exploded in the 1950s–70s, pet fashion began to reflect human trends—think bomber jackets, raincoats, and even disco-inspired accessories!

📸 Today: Artistic, Eco-Friendly, and Instagram-Ready
Petwear is no longer just functional or novelty—it's a creative expression. At Fur-You, we embrace both style and purpose: hand screen-printed, sustainable garments designed for comfort, cuteness, and connection.

Bonnie, a lively Boston Terrier, balances on her hind legs, showing off the perfect fall of Fur-You’s Mandala Glow tee in dusty blue. Designed for movement, this ethically crafted Good Earth Cotton® tee hugs her body while allowing free play. Hand-printed with care, it’s a wearable piece of art for pets who embrace life with energyKuma wearing size small, sits comfortably in Fur-You’s ‘Bend Don’t Break’ tee in sand with a grey print. He turns his head back toward the camera, mouth slightly open in a joyful expression, his bushy tail elegantly curled. A perfect blend of sustainable craftsmanship and style

And hey, we know what you're thinking…

Is petwear really necessary? Or is it just a bit of fun?

We say it’s both. And it’s absolutely Fur-You. 🐾

🐾 Want to take the next fashionable step for your pup?
Explore our collection of artistically screen-printed, sustainable petwear.
🛒 Shop the collection

🎁 Giveaway still open!
Read the clue above?
Comment the answer on our latest Reel for your chance to win a $50 gift card:
👉 Comment here

🎁 P.S. There might be a very cheeky clue hidden in here for our May giveaway. Have you found it yet?

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