BASTARDS Dogwear: Custom Fashion for your Dog
"If you design standardised clothing, it might fit everyone, but at the same time it doesn't fit anyone perfectly," says Neža Knific, who founded BASTARDS Dogwear together with Klemen Smrtnik in October 2020. The label produces custom dog clothing and matching accessories in a minimalist, modern style in materials used in the military as well as rock climbing.
Based in Slovenia's capital Ljubljana, the young company combines Smrtnik's experience in industrial design with Knific's fashion knowledge. "Our goal is to have a brand that makes it possible for dog owners to share their fashion sense with their dogs," Neža Knific shares. "The clothes should, of course, be cut perfectly and look fashionable, but what always comes first is the animal itself. The dog should be able to move freely and safely. The cool look is just the icing on the cake."
It all started with Whippet Bruce. Now the face of the brand, he is the faithful companion of co-founder Klemen Smrtnik, who could not find the perfect coat for Bruce. Typical of whippets, he loves to run at top speed. All the clothes Bruce has worn so far restricted him, were uncomfortable, or just wouldn't hold up. So the two sat down together, observed and analysed the dog’s movements in order to create the ultimate products.
The centrepiece of their range is the BASTARDS Coat. Designed to support rather than restrict, the lightweight coat is made from a water-repellent, durable polyurethane-polyester blend with a matte finish. The collar can be extended over the ears to protect the dog from harsh weather, and a neck opening can be added for collars or leads if desired. The G-HOOK, specially developed by the brand, guarantees a secure hold no matter what speed and does not disturb the dog when resting. The model is available in dark blue and black and can be machine washed at a low temperature.
What is a dog outfit without the right accessories? The BASTARDS Collar made of black leather not only looks incredibly sleek, it is free of metals and has a quick, simple opening mechanism. The GT Cobra Buckle, invented by a brand called AustriAlpin, can withstand a tensile load of up to 2.2 kilonewtons. The collar can be individually adjusted to the dog's neck circumference, whereby the slider neither scuffs nor breaks the leather.
Photo: BASTARDS Dogwear
The look is complete with the BASTARDS Leash. The minimalism of the leash may be deceiving, but behind the fragile-looking façade hides innovative construction. Made from KEVLAR Aramid, the same material used in bulletproof vests, the leash can withstand up to 2.5 tonnes of force. The KONG Frog connects the collar securely and firmly to the leash, but can be opened practically with one hand through two pressure points. A fastener like this is also used when securing mountain climbers.
Their designs are reminiscent of Virgil Abloh's OFF-White or Matthew Williams 1017-ALYX-9SM. The hardware and materials look simultaneously utilitarian and futuristic. Asked about this, Neža Knific responds this way. "Oh, thank you very much! We are influenced by many things, but it is always functionality first when it comes to design. Good looks are secondary. Hearing us being compared to such incredible designers is a great compliment, and we are of course inspired by them."
BASTARDS Dogwear is currently only available on their official website. Whippet Bruce may be model and muse rolled into one, but dogs of all breeds can become part of the BASTARDS gang. Whether it's a coat, collar, leash or even a dog bed, there's something for every owner and their companion.
"We want to create dog fashion that is as functional as our sportswear. Humans are athletes, but the same is true for dogs. They run much faster than we do, and we want to support them in that," says Neža. To put things into perspective, these animal athletes can reach up to 70km/h, which is seven times what a human can reach. When the biggest sports companies invest millions every year in the development of their products, it is high time that the same investment is made in man's best friend.
BASTARDS Dogwear is still in its beginnings, but the products are not only revolutionary in terms of appearance. The knowledge and passion the two founders have put into their label is reflected in the innovative designs and unbeatable functions. Their plans for the future? "We would like to make as many puppies as possible comfortable while they're pooping. In style.”
