Fashionable Dogs: A Unique Exhibit at the Museum of the Dog
New York Fashion Week isn’t just for humans anymore. The American Kennel Club’s Museum of the Dog is bringing NYFW to the “bark” side with its newest exhibit, “Fashionable Dogs.” This exhibit explores the relationship between specific dog breeds and the world of fashion throughout history.
The exhibit showcases a variety of mixed media, including painted portraits, archival photographs, and vintage objects, depicting the popularity of several dog breeds and how they influenced fashion trends. Renowned photographers such as Herb Ritts, Neal Barr, and Weegee are featured, along with famous models like Gigi Hadid, Kate Moss, and Sharon Tate. The exhibit also highlights celebrity dog owners, including Edward VII, Queen Alexandria, Colette, and Greg Louganis, as well as exquisite Art Deco works by French etcher Louis Icart.
It’s important to note that the exhibit does not focus on clothing animals or dogs wearing clothes. Instead, it explores the cultural significance of specific dog breeds and their association with notable figures. The breeds featured in the exhibit include the Borzoi, Greyhound, Poodle, Pekingese, Japanese Chin, French Bulldog, and Great Dane.
Each breed has had its moment in the fashion spotlight throughout history. Greyhounds were initially revered for their hunting skills and became one of the first fashionable dogs. The Japanese Chin and Pekingese breeds gained popularity for their rarity and foreign appeal. Poodles were at the height of fashion in the 1950s and 1960s. The Borzoi was treasured by the Russian and British aristocracy in the early 20th century. In the 1990s, the Harlequin Great Dane became a favorite in fashion photography. The French Bulldog had its moment in the 1990s but was overlooked for many years until it became the most registered breed by the American Kennel Club in 2022.
The exhibit, running from September 7 to December 31, 2023, provides an insider’s look at the rise and fall of dogs as fashion symbols throughout time. It showcases paintings, fashion photography, and accessories that capture the essence of each breed and their impact on the fashion industry.
The AKC Museum of the Dog is proud to present this unique exhibition. Located in New York City, the museum is home to the largest collection of canine art in the United States. Its mission is to educate visitors about the historical and cultural significance of dogs and their relationship with humans.
If you’re interested in attending the opening reception for the “Fashionable Dogs” exhibit, RSVP as a member of the AKC Museum of the Dog. This exclusive event will take place on September 6, 2023.
The exhibit is made possible with the support of the New York State Council on the Arts, the Office of the Governor, and the New York State Legislature. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience celebrating the fascinating intersection of dogs and fashion.