Four&Sons

Ware of the Dog

WORDS BY Andie Cusick

For Ware of the Dog founder Jackie Rosenthal, creating clothing and accessories for dogs is not  so dissimilar to producing womenswear. “I often interpret what is happening in the fashion world  into my designs,” she says. “I try to make sweaters  for dogs that I would want to wear myself.”  With a résumé that reads like a hotlist of luxury  labels (Comme des Garçons, Lanvin, and Nina Ricci, to name a few), Rosenthal turned her attention towards establishing a line dedicated to well-dressed dogs in 2012.

From colourful collars and leashes crafted  from supple European leather to waterproof coats, hoodies, and fine-knit sweaters, Rosenthal is intent on introducing fashion-forward designs to the pet-accessory market. And it’s not without demand. “When we first launched the online store, we sold  only sweaters, but I would get so many orders for heavy hand-knits from consumers in Los Angeles,” she says. “It doesn’t get very cold in L.A., so they  must just want to dress their dogs in clothes they  like regardless of the weather!”

Ware of the Dog’s fall/winter 2014 collection includes hand-knit bobble sweaters, cable turtlenecks in striking graphic monochrome, and  a more traditional argyle knit. “I like to play around with new ideas of construction, often juxtaposing contrasting colours, stitches, or materials into  the pieces,” Rosenthal continues. Adding to the  mix are two-tone neon collars, leashes, and bright  vinyl raincoats. “I think people enjoy receiving compliments on their dog’s collar or clothing. The accessories they buy for their dogs often  match closely with their own taste for fashion.”

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Tags Accessories, Collection, Community, Craftsmanship, Design, Fashion, Gifts, Living, New York, Product