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It’s time someone said it: the world of fashion is too human-centric. I’m going to catch a lot of flak for that statement, but I’m willing to withstand it in order to get dogs their long overdue time in the fashion limelight.
We’ve covered matching dog/human fashion trends you should get in on, but now it’s time to talk exclusively about dogs.
Here are the best 2018 fall fashion trends for your dog. We’ve included some options for when you want to go all in on fashion—like animal print coats and neon sweaters—and some more subtle options for when you don’t want to go whole hog (or more accurately, whole dog).
Statement Coats
This fall, statement coats are big. While a classic solid color coat is always in fashion, 2018 has brought with it bold prints and other head-turning styles. We especially like this upcycled dinosaur dog coat from Etsy store lizhorner (which features many other great statement coat choices as well).
If your dog isn’t quite bold enough for a statement coat, keep it simple with a statement collar, like these cute ones from Blueberry Pet on Amazon.
Animal Prints
Let your dog evoke Zsa Zsa Gabor in an animal print coat, like this Tzou dog jacket in “luxury leopard.” This bold yet timeless look informs other dogs that your dog is far, far above them in social status.
Western Wear
Western wear has once again cycled back into style. This fall, the hippest dogs are wearing a contemporary, sleek version of the classic Western look. A denim or chambray button-up shirt, like this one from Etsy store ChompersAndSons, is a great combination of classic, contemporary and fun.
And of course, for dogs who may not want to wear a denim or chambray shirt (fair enough), a Western-style bandana is always a classic choice. We especially like these plaid and gingham options from Invlab Dog on Amazon.
80s Looks
The 80s are back in an extreme way, as they seem to be every few years. This trend is, of course, open to interpretation. Whatever the 80s meant to you, your dog can now wear that sentiment. May we suggest these cool denim dog vests from Etsy store PetHaus? Stay gold, Ponyboy.
Is your dog self-conscious about diving head first into the 80s? Start small. Boost their confidence with a collar in an 80s color, like this hot pink one from Country Brook Petz on Amazon.
Magenta
Like we said before, the 80s are back in many ways. Magenta is one of those ways. In the 80s and into the early 90s, magenta was everywhere, and its time has come around again. For dogs that prefer a no-fuss option, opt for a simple magenta bandana. If your dog likes to be the belle of the ball, consider the Rose Magenta Dog Dress from Etsy store Sassystylboutique.
If she doesn’t like to stand out quite as much, consider a magenta leash, like this option from Blueberry Pet on Amazon, that you can both enjoy together.
Plenty of Plaid
Plaid is back as a fall must, and dogs are not exempt from the trend. There are lots of plaid coats for dogs, like these refreshingly affordable ones by Kuoser, that are both fashionable and functional—perfect for keeping your dog warm in crisp fall weather.
Corduroy
Corduroy is always a good idea to put on a dog. I dare you to think of a counterexample. Fall is an especially good time for corduroy, as it has just the right amount of warmth, and evokes a back-to-school feeling. I especially like this cute Woolrich Dakota corduroy jacket in brown. (It’s also available in plaid if your dog wants to kill two fall fashion birds with one stone.)
Hawaiian Shirts
Have you noticed that tiki has made a huge comeback this year? Though summer is winding down, Hawaiian-inspired shirts continue to be all the rage. As a human, you can wear one in a warm climate, or stave off the cold weather blues by wearing your favorite Hawaiian shirt to a party. Dogs, too, can join in the fun with Hawaiian shirts, just like the cool guy pictured above.
Don’t have a dog that’s the Hawaiian shirt type? Many of us are in the same boat. How about this adorable banana-patterned collar from sPETyle on Amazon? It’s devastatingly cool without being attention-seeking.
Red Floral Patterns
Red floral patterns, like the one on this Fitwarm Elegance Rose Dog Dress, are a must for the canine fashionista this fall. They’re perfect for autumn dog weddings, or a stroll around the dog park. Note: only for the tiniest of dogs!
Blanket Coats
According to Elle, blanket coats are a hot item this fall, which is great news for dogs. Wrap your dog in a cozy blanket coat like this one in cute plaid fleece from Etsy store CORKIEandPEPPER.
Don’t have a coat-friendly dog? Maybe just get them a nice soft plaid blanket, like this one from Adog on Amazon, and call it a day.
Neon Colors
Here’s yet another way the 80s have taken over: neon is all the rage this fall. Your dog can keep it simple with solid color neon clothing, or get a little creative with multicolored neon items like this Neon Stripe Dog Jumper with Harness Hole by Etsy store FRAGGLESTHREADS.
If your dog isn’t ready to dive into the world of neon sweaters, start small with a neon green collar, courtesy of Sassy Dog Wear on Amazon.
Now go forth and shop! What’s your dog’s favorite fall fashion trend?