My love for fashion began at the age of three. I was dressing myself, and laying out outfits the night before to make sure everything matched for pre-school the next day. And now that I own and operate a small dog apparel and accessories business, Mijo & Bambi, this love for fashion has transferred to the dogs. Inspired by my Grandmother’s Oakland garment factory on the 1980s, Mijo & Bambi was born in 2008 with shivering Chihuahuas and my goal to make fashion that fit dogs comfortably. I loved to use my patternmaking skills to cut up and modify any dog fashion I could find. Trying the designs on the dogs was one of my favorite parts. I studied the dog body, how it moved, and figured out what was needed to create USA-made, high-quality, comfortably functioning products.
It’s true, like people, dogs come in all shapes and sizes. There’s the petite, the “regular” and the plus size. And if one item doesn’t work on one dog, with a little try- it-on action, we are sure to find something that fits just right. Customers often comment on their how fashion keeps their dog nice and warm, while reducing anxiety and calming their dog’s nerves. Others report that outfits build their confidence, increasing their willingness to play with others while wearing their jumpsuit. Happy dog lovers tell me that people stop their dogs on the street to comment on their outfits and ask where they got them.
Surprising as it is, people are wild for dog fashion. Big dog lovers often say to me, “If only you made this for the big dogs so I can make my dog look as cute as the little ones.” I’m working on it guys!
The costumes have been insanely popular. People like to give their dogs nicknames like pig or cow. So when they see the pig or cow costume, they immediately go for it. I couldn’t keep Santa and Rudolph in stock this last holiday season. Our original bees, ladybugs and frogs sell all year round. Who cares if it’s Halloween or not, people love to dress up their dogs.
The elements of dog fashion don’t differ that much from human fashion. The type of fabrics, layering systems, and wardrobe variety are important to canines and humans alike. Dogs love soft organic cotton and bamboo tees, cute cottons mixed with recycled heavier weight fleeces and shearlings, and I love to incorporate leather into the fabric harnesses. These are all details I consider in choosing a garment for myself. They system of creating a layering effect is a creative process too. Harnesses can go over tees, sweaters, and jumpsuits or they can go under the costumes and jackets. D-rings are strategically placed to be able to do this. You don’t have to have a huge wardrobe to be able to function throughout the seasons. With a few key pieces and the right layering techniques, you can create a dozen or more different looks for your pup.
Christine Lopez owns and operates Mijo & Bambi, a San Francisco-based dog fashion company using quality USA labor and materials whenever possible. 3% of their proceeds are donated to animals in need. Christine has had a life-long passion for fashion, which she loves to transfer to dogs.
She can be reached at: sales@mijoandbambi.com or you can check out the latest in dog-wear on mijoandbambi.com.
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