Five years ago, I wrote a blog post about the fashion choices of dog handlers after watching the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. I had no idea that this piece would receive the most engagement of any piece of mine to date. It would seem that many others have watched dog shows like Westminster and Crufts on TV and have questioned the wide array of sequined suits and clodhopper shoes on the female handlers. While there may not be a designated dress code, there is an unspoken tradition of wearing ill-fitting, dated clothes, and not a lot has changed in the years that have passed since my original piece went live. I didn’t write this piece in an effort to be rude or mean spirited, and if I had to do it all over again I probably would have phrased things differently. I was writing for a fashion blog, not a dog show blog, and I wasn’t pretending to be a dog handler or to know all the ins and outs of that job. Handler fashion seemed to be a well-known point of interest, and I thought it would be fun and lighthearted — even helpful and informative. Quite a few commenters agreed with me: “Watching the AKC and it’s ridiculous how much the suits worn by the female handlers are distracting from the dogs — Several are wearing shiny taffeta suits in horrendous colors — the standard should be revised to dark colors — You never get distracted by what the [male] handlers are wearing!” “The women handlers all look so dowdy, not only because of the length of the skirts and the flat shoes, but because the clothes they wear are downright ugly…What is this with tradition that women have to wear skirts? Why the need for bling, sparkles? I don’t get it. It is a sporting event not a formal gala.” “I just watched the Purina show again. I am so happy people are talking about this. I think women should as a group begin to change things. Let’s put things on a level playing field with the men. I say well-tailored pant suits are the way to go. Why do women have to wear skirts and jackets? This is 2015 not 1950! And who says you have to bling?! Men don’t wear a tux! If you all start making the change it will eventually catch on.” “I’m watching the National Dog Show and became so distracted by the women handlers attire that I decided to try to find out why the continued dowdy outfits. Do not understand why they can’t wear a pantsuit that fits.” “I’m flabbergasted by the comically-atrocious attire…the dog world needs MORE posts like this!” Others were less than thrilled, and I can understand why. While makeover shows and “fashion police” style articles were common when the piece was written, these days fashion is far more live-and-let-live. That certainly isn’t to say no one passes judgement anymore, but acceptance of personal style is far more widespread. But dog show handlers don’t seem to dress the way they do because they want to. They seem to feel like they have to, and I refuse to believe that’s true. My initial call-out was for handlers to look for better fitting, modern suiting that still addressed their practical requirements:
If you’ve ever watched a dog show in your life, you’ve seen the shoes. They’re rough. I fully understand the need for comfort and practicality, but I have never believed function and style are mutually exclusive. Ballet flats seemed like a logical alternative to a cloddy sneaker, but that suggestion was not well received. “Ballet flats would slip on the carpeted floor.” “No ballet flats…your feet hurt like murder after a few hours. Just looking at battle flats makes my feet ache.” “Everyone who does not show dogs comments on our dowdy shoes. Yes, sketcher type shoes are pretty popular because they’re comfortable for most people and you can run in them. Even if you’re showing a toy breed, the carpet can be very slippery and you don’t want to fall in the ring. I know it looks silly to wear a skirt with these type of shoes, but it would look much sillier to wear heels to a dog show and then fall down.” Others understood where I was coming from: “The shoes are awful, and not likely supportive since some of their ankles roll inward. I am all about comfort, especially in footwear; many brands such as Clarks, BOC, Born, uniform or safety shoes without steel toes can be very comfortable and somewhat stylish. A well-fitting shoe with arch support, cushioned sole, and covers the instep is most supportive and comfortable. Even a low heel (up to 2”) especially in a wedge can be very comfortable.” I will say that the specific flats I suggested may not have been the best choice. I chose flats with ankle straps to address the issue of them slipping, but they didn’t have much traction and didn’t look particularly comfortable for a full day in the show ring. The good news is that comfort footwear has come a long way in the past five years! Brands like Trotters, Walking Cradles, Abeo, Dansko, BeautiFeel, and Borns all have ballet flat options that are perfectly stylish and ready to run around the ring. Interestingly enough, there are some handlers who have very strong shoe game but lose it from the ankles up. Bright, intrusive colors, sequins, and awkward seam lines might seem like a choice that would “wow” the judges, but it ends up distracting from the dogs. Apparently, this isn’t by chance, but commonplace advice among handlers. “I was always told to wear bright blues, greens etc., because my black dog will stand out against those colors so the judge can easily see the dogs. If I wear a dark black or navy colored skirt I would blend right into my dog. This is why you will see such crazy colors in the ring, those people are trying to help their dogs stand out from them. So in their defense, that’s why their outfits are so ‘loud.’” “I show golden retrievers and I can dress in black and be fine. But someone who is showing a black lab…should not dress in black, but an eye catching color, so the judge notices them in the crowd.” I’m all for a bold color moment if it’s the right bold color. I’ve seen handlers wear reds and corals and pull them off beautifully, and certain blue tones can work. But shiny beaded skirts and jackets? Or glossy gold buttons? Or brocade? At a certain point, you’re not standing out for the right reasons anymore. I also don’t particularly follow the logic that the dog won’t stand out next to a neutral color. For one, black isn’t the only neutral option — a light grey would work with most dog breeds, and navy is a great alternative to black. Also, since most handlers wear skirts that cut off at the knee, the majority of the dog would be seen next to the handlers’ legs, not their outfit. I would think dresses or pants would be no-brainer alternatives for handlers. Dresses with pockets are commonplace now, but you never see them in the ring — as one commented on my original post, “There is no unspoken rule about dresses, separates are just easier.” But why? Isn’t one piece to throw on easier to think about than two or three pieces if you’re wearing a skirt suit? And as for pants, they seem to solve every requirement handlers have, and in 2019, why not? They have pockets and a waistband. They come in all colors. You don’t have to think about them riding up when you bend over. They cover the majority of a shoe. They cover the legs, so no need for panty hose. Boy, did I hear an earful about panty hose. From a practical standpoint, it’s worth mentioning that panty hose make it easier for your skirt to slide up or your shoe to slip off. They’re also generally uncomfortable, tight, and sweaty. But you wouldn’t think that from the comments I received. “I can tell that the person that wrote this article is a young twit. Get this through your heads young people: EVERYONE DOES NOT HAVE GOOD LOOKING LEGS. I’ll be damned if I go out without pantyhose on and have a draft going up my you know what.” “I’m wearing pantyhose for the rest of my life, no matter what others think.” “I’m older. I grew up wearing pantyhose and I’m comfortable wearing them. I’ve found that fashion has changed today, and younger women just don’t wear pantyhose anymore. But it does make your legs look better. When I’m watching the news, the weathergirls never wear pantyhose and you can tell. To me, they just look like they’re freezing and their legs just don’t look as good.” “I don’t want to wear just pants for the rest of my life. If I wear a skirt, I wear pantyhose. I also don’t want to wear opaque tights all the time if I’m wearing a skirt.” If you adore your panty hose, I guess to each their own. It seems we have the dog show industry to thank for keeping them on the market. I have been grateful over the years to hear from frustrated handlers who wish the unwritten “dress code” were different: “My first dog show I really didn’t research proper attire and got a comment later that the judge made said that if I had dressed better my dog would have placed better.” “I am new to the dog show world and the ‘dress code’ stinks! If we are running our dogs, we should wear running shoes and if we need pockets we should wear pants, or skirts that have pockets, or heaven forbid dresses. It is time to look at comfort and convenience. I for one will wear dresses with pockets and running shoes!” “I would advocate a dress policy which required all handlers to wear black pants with black jackets and black shoes. The men never look ludicrous; the women, almost always.” “I also am relatively new to the dog show world (about 1 year). I also agree that many of the women handlers wear skirt suits/dresses that seem over the top, if not downright silly. I have been told that’s what I need to wear if I want to win. I have refused….I, like a few others above, wear pants and a nice blouse with a blazer or light sweater. I might even wear a pant suit for a big show. That really should be more than acceptable. I don’t know whether my choice of dress has hurt my dog, but if it has, shame on the dog show judges and anyone who supports dresses and skirts only if you want to be a successful woman handler. We are in the 21st century!” “I show dogs in Australia and here the shiny, ill-fitting skirt suit (many of them imported from the U.S.) is also the choice of the majority of female dog exhibitors. Eeeeeek! My dogs are beautiful and win! I want to compliment them with my dress. Whether we care to acknowledge it or not, a judge cannot help but be subconsciously influenced by the presentation of handlers.” “I show dogs, have for years, and I look for cheap clothing where ever I can, BUT I also learned to sew. I put pockets in jackets, skirts, dresses almost everything I buy.” “I’ve only worn dress pants because they had pockets. On top I’ve worn a classic cardigan (buttoned) or a jacquard woven jacket (buttoned). I have since discovered the bait pouch on a strap around waist, but I still want pockets — I dare not leave my cell or keys at the grooming table…I appreciate reading the opinions, and wish that slacks were more appropriate. However I notice the “winners” all seem to have a tailored skirt suit. Really bugs me to think I would have to develop a skirt suit wardrobe…I guess to get anywhere in this dog show business I have to do what I see the other winners doing.” I don’t know if I have a perfect answer for handlers. It seems if you buck tradition you may be judged more harshly than your dog, and if you maintain tradition you run the risk of looking ridiculous. That’s a lose-lose situation, and as a mere spectator I’m not going to pretend to understand the effort it takes to toe that line. No one feels good wearing something they don’t want to wear. No one feels good being told they have to wear something they don’t want to wear. I think for any profession, you have to look and feel your best in order to succeed, and if you’re confident in your outfit, it will show in your performance. Too bad the dogs don’t understand the struggle.
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I cannot believe it has been a YEAR since I've done a trend watch. I really suck at this blogging thing, don't I?
DISCLAIMER: never sacrifice fit or comfort for a trend. Most trends do not last. It is not worth it. That being said, here are a few on-trend styles, colors, and accessories that have been circulating the small-town stores that you should get in on and stay out of. Get it! Modern Neon Tribal Tribal patterns used to be reserved for old-school blanket sweaters, but they've been given an update this spring. The patterns have been modernized and have become more geometric, and the colors are now bright and inviting. It's still a risk, but it's becoming one that is easier to take. 60's Beach Retro There isn't anything not to love about this trend. Crop tops with high-waisted shorts, adorable day dress with open backs, exaggerated sunglasses, and bold colors are taking over. There is something for every body type within this trend, and the looks are not SO retro that it becomes a costume, so every item will last past this season. Statement Necklaces While this isn't particularly a trend, statement necklaces have definitely been a more prominent staple of the accessories department. No matter how casual or formal your look is, it can always be pumped up by a chunky statement piece. Especially this spring, necklaces in bright, bold colors set the perfect note. Skip it! Palazzo Pants These weren't good in the late 60's/Early 70's, and they aren't good now. There are a select few quirky people who are capable of pulling them off, but those people are so few and far between, and I doubt this trend will last past this summer. Midi Rings I just don't understand this concept. Don't they fall off?? Why would anyone want a ring less than an inch off the edge of your finger?!? Maybe someone can explain this to me. I just think it's dumb. High-End Activewear This isn't wrong in and of itself, but if we're being honest, this trend just isn't necessary. You're going to be working out and SWEATING in it. It isn't going to stay nice. What's the point of spending hundreds of dollars on pants or a jacket that aren't going to last? I'll fully admit that Anthropologie's Pure+Good activewear line is adorable, and Lululemon has many a cute item. BUT STILL. It's just not worth it in the long run. I have watched the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show every year since I was a little girl, and one thing always sticks out to me like a sore thumb: the female handlers have NO idea how to dress. Hilariously bad fashion is almost a tradition, but it's something I've never understood. I imagine the thought process of these female handlers goes something along the lines of "what I wear doesn't matter because everyone will be looking at the dog" or "if I dress really well it will distract from the dog" or "I take myself too seriously as a professional dog handler to dress decently." I'll let you in on a secret: these are BAD thought processes. I can hardly pay attention to the dogs anymore because I'm so thoroughly distracted by over-sized suit jackets, under-sized and far too short pencil skirts, panty hose from the 90s and cloddy loafers you haven't been able to buy since 1982. I don't quite understand why these women haven't heard of, I don't know, DRESSES, but it seems to be traditional to wear skirt suits. I imagine this developed from the fact that the men wear suits and women want to be comparable to them without sacrificing femininity. This "tradition," however, is no excuse for poor fit or poor fashion sense in general. And the shoes. THE SHOES. Yes, you're running around in a ring with a dog, and yes, you need to be comfortable and to have a shoe that won't fall off. But for goodness sakes. You cannot wear a dressy sequined suit with Sketchers. I thought this was common knowledge amongst the entire human race, but apparently not. The images above are not by any means the worst cases, but they do exude the basis of the problem. Better examples include these ACTUAL "Dog Show Suits" for sale on facebook-based online shops: There is absolutely no reason why this should be the standard, but it simply IS across the board in the dog handler world. It was addressed as an issue almost 8 years ago on an episode of What Not to Wear...at least Michelle B. looks fabulous now. Taking a cue from both What Not to Wear and my own fashion instincts, I've developed a little Dog Handler Lookbook for the Westminster ladies. Not that they'll ever read this and not that they care. I suppose it's just for my personal peace of mind. There are certain rules I gave myself when developing these looks: 1. Comfortable, flat shoes for ease-of-running in the ring. 2. The unspoken rule of not wearing dresses. 3. Wash-and-wear, affordable clothing since handlers tend to spend more money on their dogs than on themselves! Without further ado....female handlers, TAKE NOTES!!! ![]() LOOK ONE: This look combines a variety of current trends while still maintaining the Dog Show Handler traditional dress code. The jacket, skirt, and shoes are from Target and the top is from Maurices. Sequins are common amongst handlers, but they're often overdone. By limiting the sequins to just the skirt, you get a pop of sparkle without being a disco ball. The blouse is neutral and in the same color as the skirt so as not to distract and lead the eye too many directions. A traditional buttoned jacket would work here, but I opted for a more modern open-front jacket with color blocked panels. Black and Cobalt is hot now and makes this look super sleek. For shoes, I went for a *GASP* ballet flat!! The cap-toe adds a little shine, the ankle-strap ensures they stay on your feet, and they're comfortable enough to run around in. Because this look is comprised mostly of neutral tones, the dog will still be the primary focus. ![]() LOOK TWO: This look is a new take on the traditional, classic handler look. The clothes are from Maurices and the shoes are from Target. A longer, lace pencil skirt is a much better alternative to the short stuffy skirts, and it adds texture and visual interest to the outfit. By adding a ruffled, neutral top and a cute cropped jacket in a unique color, the outfit is basic but would still set you apart. The flats follow one of Stacy and Clinton's best rules: it doesn't have to match, but it does have to GO. The raspberry tone is in the same color family as the jacket, so it all ties together in a nice little bow. ![]() LOOK THREE: The last look plays with bold graphics and different shapes. The clothes are from Maurices and the shoes are from Target. The white edging on a simple black jacket really makes this look pop. The added bonus of it being a single-closure jacket vs. a button-up is definitely figure flattering. By adding a traditional sequined top in black, the whole outfit is glammed-up. While pencil skirts are the most common, I'm offering an alternative in this skater skirt. They're very on trend right now, but they would look good for years to come in the show ring. They're much more comfortable than pencil skirts and they would offer more movement while you're running around with the dog. As an added bonus, the herringbone pattern gives the look a touch of visual interest. One of my favorite ways to make a monochromatic outfit more interesting is to add a colored shoe. I'm going back to the vibe of Look One with a burst of blue. Hey everyone!! I haven't done a trend watch since last fall and I figure it's about time for a spring trend update!
DISCLAIMER: never sacrifice fit or comfort for a trend. Most trends do not last. It is not worth it. That being said, here are a few on-trend styles, colors, and accessories that have been circulating the small-town stores that you should get in on and stay out of. Get it! Bright ActiveWear Basic sweatpants and pullovers are getting re-vamped in bright neon greens and oranges with contrasting stitching. Even running shoes are getting in on the trend...FINALLY, one can be adorable while working out! French Resort This trend is easy to work with piece-by-piece and super fun to put into outfits. With punchy reds and blues combined with classic black and denim items and statement jewelry, you're sure to look chic. Keep an eye out for eye-catching backs in tops and dresses! Soft Pastels Pastels are always a spring staple, but mint greens and soft shell pinks have been showing up everywhere in all manner of items. The colors are universally flattering and will carry well into summer. Neon Jeans A lot of people don't think they can pull this look off, but nothing rings in spring like a pair of bright bold pants. Setting if off with an easy, plain top makes for a simple, pulled-together look. Detailed Sandals From cool metal accents to intricate leather cutouts, your plain flat sandal is getting an update this year. Skip it! Hot Pants I don't know why shorts keep getting shorter because I don't know a single girl whose butt/hips can handle shorts with no inseam. Just don't, ladies. Leggings-As-Pants This has been a thing for a long time, but I've been seeing it more and more as the weather gets warmer and people are wearing their workout-wear outside. All I know is that leggings should never be pants. Ever. Wonky Tye-Dye Tye-Dye hasn't been in since I was in elementary school, and it's coming back now in extraordinarily odd colors and fabrics. Chiffon and tye-dye do not belong. Nor does gatorade orange and tye-dye. Who thought that was a good plan? 10-inch Wedges How anyone walks in them is beyond me...there are plenty of wedges and flat sandals that are just as cute and far more practical. Plus no woman needs to be that tall. Rhinestones Whoever decided cheap-o glittery rhinestone jewelry should be in was really dumb. It always looks inexpensive and juvenile. - Jordan - - 4-15-13 - With Fall well under way, it's probably an appropriate time to discuss things that have been trending these past few months.
DISCLAIMER: never sacrifice fit or comfort for a trend. Most trends do not last. It is not worth it. That being said, here are a few on-trend styles, colors, and accessories that have been circulating the small-town stores that you should get in on and stay out of. Get It! Jewel Toned Color Blocking Color-blocking NEVER goes out of style, and the jewel toned purples, teals, and greens are universally flattering and scream "autumn." Peplum This vintage-inspired style is great if you like a retro vibe, and it's shape is magnificently camouflaging on waists, tummies, and love handles. What more could you ask for? Skinny Cords A modern twist on an old favorite, this new shape in a classic fabric is a must. The colored ones are a fun and quirky alternative for the artsy among us. Fedoras A flattering hat on everyone's head. They're coming out in adorable patterns and colors these days. Riding Boots A grown-up alternative to Uggs as the weather gets colder - they're flat, they're stylish, and they'll last you forever. Skip it! Body Con Ponte Dresses "Body Con" anything is a poor life decision. Most women's "problem" area lies below the waist, and this cut and this fabric accentuates everything a woman doesn't want people to see. Good rule of thumb: if you can't wear underwear with it, leave it at the store. Flapper Fringe I love 1920s style as much as anyone, but there's a way to get that style without being so literal. Everyone will know you got that top or that dress in the year the new Great Gatsby movie came out, and it's not a classic look. Literal Vintage Glasses If it looks identical to something your grandmother wore in the 1950s, there's a good chance it's going to go out of style FAST. Glasses go on your face, everyone has to look at them, and they had better be perfect. Literal vintage is not perfect. Literal Army Boots I have no clue who likes these, but they do not look good. On anyone. Ever. Whoever told you they were cool was lying. That's really all there is to it. Skinny Heeled Booties Just one of those things that looks pretty but will kill you. Your feet will hurt, your back will hurt, and you could easily fall and hurt yourself worse. Unless you're a high-stilettos expert (so, a supermodel) leave these behind and go for something lower. - Jordan - - 10-26-12 - Last weekend I went with my mother into Chicago to see an exhibit at the Art Institute (as seen on my new video.) I had never really closely observed the fashion choices of those in the city before, but after taking a close look at what people wore and where they wore it, one thing stuck out like a sore thumb:
People have absolutely no idea as to what is appropriate attire. From the horrifyingly obnoxious clacking of heels on the Art Institute floor to the hideously unfortunate drenching of formal dresses at the Crown Fountain in Millennium Park, it seemed like everyone around me was oblivious to the fact that what they were wearing was completely inappropriate. Not everyone reading this is a museum-goer or even a Chicago-goer for that matter, but no matter where you go in life, a certain level of appropriate dress is necessary, and there are a few things anyone can do to avoid an uncomfortable situation. 1. Ask around. If you know someone who has been to the particular venue you will be visiting, ask what they wore and if they thought it was a good choice. This can cover a variety of occasions - if you're going to a concert, ask someone who has seen that artist before about how people dressed at the event. If you're going to a park, ask what attractions are there and what to expect so you can determine what to wear. If you're going to a wedding, ask other guests what they're wearing so you'll fit in. If you don't know anyone who has been/is going where you will be, most venues have websites that can help you determine what would be suitable. If you still have no luck, chances are someone else was once in the same bind as you, and a "what do I wear to..." Google search can be very beneficial. If you still have no luck, it's usually best to just 2. Use your good sense. The fashion faux pas I ran into last week seemed entirely obvious to me, but apparently they weren't to others. If you're going to an art museum, jeans are acceptable as long as the rest of your outfit looks put together - dressing nice and presentable is the most important thing. Looking like you just rolled out of bed is not ideal, nor is dressing SO nice that you end up in a short, tight skirt that you can't bend over in or sky-high heels that you can't walk in. (I would think that wouldn't need mentioned, but after watching a girl nearly fall down a marble staircase because of her Christian Louboutins, I figure it's worth noting.) At a kid-friendly museum, comfort is clearly key. Wear jeans! Wear sneakers! Make sure you can chase the children around with ease; the last thing you want is to be struggling with the cut of your top, the rise of your pants, or the comfort of your shoes. And unless you're the type that wears shorts under your dresses, leave the skirts at home. Where there is water, for heaven's sake bring a towel. There are usually areas where you can dry off, or if you're REALLY wet, change clothes (which does, of course, involve you BRINGING an extra outfit.) No matter where you're going, it's as simple as taking all events into consideration, which includes 3. Considering others around you. The last thing I wanted to hear at the Art Institute was every move of the gal in her clompy wedges fifty paces across the gallery. Art museums are echo-y places, and it's only courteous to wear flat shoes that don't make a lot of noise when you walk. The same went for Crown Fountain; I had no desire to see all the white t-shirts that had soaked through. Thinking through an item of clothing and the consequences that could occur when wearing it to a particular place is imperative. You wouldn't wear a two hundred dollar cashmere sweater to watch babies because it would get covered in spit-up. You wouldn't wear a low-cut top with an open back to the office because you would be, at the least, objectified, at the worst, fired. You wouldn't wear a dress to the gym...I don't think I have to explain why. Simply take the same principles you use to get dressed for the everyday situations and apply them to the special occasions and fun weekend getaways in life. The people around you will thank you. - Jordan - - 8-25-12 - |
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