Dressing up pets has moved far beyond functional sweaters and raincoats. Today, it's about personality, occasion, and cultural expression especially in celebrations like weddings, festivals, and parties. If you're a pet parent looking to give your furry companion a fashionable edge, nothing makes a bolder statement than a traditional dog kurta or dog lehenga.
In this guide, we'll walk you through how to choose, style, and care for ethnic pet outfits so your pup (or kitty!) looks fabulous and feels comfortable.
Why Traditional Dog Clothes Is Gaining Popularity
Over the past few years, there's been a massive rise in demand for pet fashion, especially in India and among the Indian diaspora worldwide. Weddings, festivals like Diwali, Raksha Bandhan, and even pet birthdays have become reasons to dress up dogs and cats. A dog kurta adds a regal, classic charm to your male pup, while a dog lehenga brings vibrant, feminine energy to your female pet's look.
These outfits not only make your pet look adorable but also help them feel included in your family's most special moments.
1. Know Your Pet's Measurements
Before shopping for a dog kurta or dog lehenga, always measure your pet properly. Get precise measurements of your neck, chest circumference, and back length. Most pet clothes makers give a sizing guide and follow it carefully.
Tip: Always size up if your dog is between sizes. It's better to make minor adjustments than to deal with something too tight.
2. Choose the Right Fabric
Comfort is everything. Since pets can't tell you when something itches or feels too tight, fabric matters a lot.
For summer events, opt for lightweight materials like cotton, linen, or muslin. These allow your pet to move and breathe easily. If you're dressing your pet in winter, velvet or silk-blend dog kurtas and dog lehengas work beautifully and offer a more luxurious feel.
Avoid any fabric with sharp embroidery, sequins, or beads that might poke their skin.
3. Match the Occasion
Style your dog based on the event. A minimal pastel dog kurta works great for a daytime wedding function or mehendi, while a heavily embroidered kurta adds sparkle to a sangeet or reception.
Your princess pup would look stunning in a ruffled or pleated dog lehenga with matching choli and dupatta. Floral prints work well for haldi ceremonies, while deeper hues like maroon or royal blue shine at evening functions.
Bonus: Coordinate your pet's outfit with your own for those jaw-dropping photo moments!
4. Focus on the Fit
Even the most beautiful dog dress fails if it does not fit properly. A well-fitted dog kurta should sit snugly on the shoulders without restricting movement. Similarly, a dog lehenga should have an adjustable waistband that doesn't slide off or dig into their tummy.
Look for clothes with Velcro closures or stretchable materials that allow flexibility.
5. Keep It Minimal for First-Time Wearers
If this is your dog's first time in ethnic wear, ease them into it. Start with a simple dog kurta or a soft lehenga skirt without the full blouse and dupatta. Let them get comfortable before introducing more elaborate pieces.
Treats and praise also help make the experience fun!
6. Accessorize the Right Way
Accessories can complete the look, but only if they're safe. Fabric-based turbans, floral neck garlands, or soft bows go well with dog kurtas, while matching headbands and delicate anklets complement a dog lehenga.
Make sure accessories are lightweight, secure, and don't dangle in a way that could trip or annoy your pet.
7. Grooming Before Dressing Up
Style isn't just about clothes. Make sure your pet is well-groomed—bathed, brushed, and looking fresh. A clean coat makes the dog kurta and dog lehenga pop even more and gives those Instagram pics an extra glow.
8. Safety First
Comfort should always come before aesthetics. Don't leave your dog unsupervised while they're wearing a kurta or lehenga, especially if the outfit includes accessories. Ensure they can walk, sit, and lie down without restriction.
If your pet starts to scratch, chew, or pull at the outfit, remove it immediately and check for fit or fabric irritation.
9. Where to Shop
Go with trusted brands like Boof by Bella, known for their handcrafted, breathable, and pet-safe wedding outfits. Their dog kurta and dog lehenga collections are thoughtfully designed with pet comfort in mind while keeping fashion-forward trends intact.
You can also request custom sizing or coordinated sets for siblings (dog + cat looks, anyone?).
10. Caring for Ethnic Pet Clothing
To make your pet's outfit last, always follow care instructions. Most dog kurtas and dog lehengas can be gently hand-washed or dry-cleaned, depending on the fabric.
Store them in ventilated garment bags away from moisture and natural light.
Final Thoughts
Styling your dog in a traditional dog kurta or dog lehenga is more than just fashion, it's about including them in life's biggest celebrations. Whether it's for a wedding, festive occasion, or a family photoshoot, these outfits help your pet look their best while feeling comfortable.
So go ahead and bring them into the spotlight with elegant, festive wear from Boof by Bella. Because when your pet looks good, they feel loved and that's what truly makes every moment pawfect.
Important link: Traditional wedding outfits for dogs and cats in India
