Pets put best paws forward for doggie fashion show
The FIT’s Last Bark for Bryant Park pet fashion show featured a whole pack of dog outfits designed by students.
The event was organised by FIT’s Pet Product Design and Marketing program and showcased more than a dozen dogs sporting tiaras and skirts to turtle shell inspired sweaters.
“It went great,” said organiser Janet Brav. “The designs were beautiful, the students are so talented and the marketplace is wide open. It’s one of the few industries that in the last terrible two years have actually grown.”
Lisa Barnes with LMB Designs, who is starting a line of pet apparel based on nature, agreed and said the event was a great opportunity, especially for new designers.
“It’s a great opportunity for us as designers to actually see our items on dogs as well as network and meet other people,” said Ms Barnes.
One of the hits of the show was Lynne Correia and her pup Gidget who inspired her to create outfits such as the Flamenco Girl (€184) and the Flower Fairy (€120).
“The fashion industry is constantly evolving, and pet apparel and related products represent an industry that is proving to be comparatively recession-proof. Our program provides training for designers wishing to enter this market,” said Joan Volpe of FIT’s Centre for Professional Studies.
