Haute dogs: Pets can now walk in style with designs by Shivan and Narresh

Why should fashion be only for humans? Designer pet wear, which is highly popular in countries like the US, Japan and China, is now gaining roots in India too. An accidental meeting and a conversation between ace designers Shivan Bhatiya, Narresh Kukreja (of the fashion brand Shivan & Narresh) and entrepreneur Rashi Sanon Narang resulted in what is possibly the first designer collection dedicated to pets in our country. As the founder of pet products’ store, Heads Up For Tails (HUFT), Rashi tells us how the collaboration for the collection, which includes designer collars, leashes, harnesses, teepees (tents), beds and jackets, came into being.

“I happened to meet Shivan and Narresh by chance and we began speaking about our shared love for pets. The duo had adopted a rescued Indie dog, Matisse, from a railway station and were designing some outfits for him. That was when we decided to work together on a line for pets,” Rashi recalls.

Shivan and Narresh’s signature vibrant patterns can also be seen in this pet wear collection, launched a few days ago. “We wanted the designs to be functional, while also being fun and creative. We wanted to ensure there was no discomfort in pets’ movement in all of the designs. This collection is for those who are fashion-conscious and would love a leash or a coat that not only looks good, but is also functional,” she asserts.

The collection stemmed from the love for rescued Indie, Matisse, says Narresh. “As conscious dog parents, we have always designed collars and leashes for Matisse. Stemming from the immense love that we have for him, collaborating with HUFT was a natural progression to extend this fondness, and venture into pet’s wear. The products from the range are a gift from us to every dog parent,” Narresh says in a statement.

A part of the funds raised from the collection will go towards HUFT Foundation, in order to raise awareness on their ‘Adopt Don’t Shop’ initiative which encourages people to adopt pets, instead of buying them, notes Rashi.

The collection is available at HUFT stores in Kotturpuram and on the East Coast Road.