Core Viewpoint - The pet economy is a growing market, particularly in cities like Shanghai, where pet owners are willing to spend significantly on their pets, including custom clothing for them [3][11][12]. Group 1: Market Insights - The average annual spending on a pet dog is projected to be 2,961 yuan in 2024, a 3% increase from 2023, while for cats, it is expected to be 2,020 yuan, up 4.9% [3]. - There is a notable gap in the pet clothing market, particularly for larger breeds, as many existing products are generic and do not cater to specific needs [3][13]. - The demand for customized pet clothing is rising, with pet owners showing a willingness to invest in unique and personalized items for their pets [11][12][15]. Group 2: Business Model and Strategy - The business started with a focus on remaking old clothes into pet outfits, which aligns with sustainability trends and offers unique designs [13][35]. - The pricing strategy is competitive, with remade items priced at 188 yuan and custom designs ranging from 200 to 400 yuan, making it accessible to a broader audience [3][4]. - The owner has successfully leveraged social media for marketing, collaborating with pet influencers to showcase designs and attract customers [17][25]. Group 3: Design and Customization Process - The design process involves understanding the specific needs of each pet, including measurements and preferences, to ensure a perfect fit [21][23]. - The customization options are extensive, allowing pet owners to choose styles, fabrics, and additional elements, which enhances customer satisfaction [29][30]. - The owner emphasizes the importance of considering the functional anatomy of dogs when designing clothing, ensuring comfort and usability [21][22]. Group 4: Consumer Behavior and Trends - Pet owners are increasingly treating their pets as family members, leading to a rise in spending on pet-related services and products, including clothing [37][38]. - There is a trend of pet owners wanting their pets to reflect their personal style, leading to a demand for fashionable and unique pet clothing [27][36]. - The market is becoming competitive, with various styles and products available, indicating a vibrant and evolving pet fashion industry [38][39].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the emerging trend of customized pet clothing, showcasing the potential of the pet economy and the unique business model of a designer who transitioned from human fashion to pet apparel [2][3][4]. Group 1: Market Opportunity - The pet economy is identified as a blue ocean, with increasing consumer spending on pets. In 2024, the average annual expenditure for a pet dog is projected to be 2,961 yuan, a 3.0% increase from 2023, while for a pet cat, it is expected to be 2,020 yuan, up 4.9% [2]. - There are significant gaps in the pet clothing market, particularly for larger breeds, as many existing products are generic and do not cater to specific needs [2][10]. Group 2: Business Model and Strategy - The designer, Zang Shuo, capitalizes on her fashion design background to offer affordable custom pet clothing, with prices ranging from 200 to 400 yuan for custom pieces and 188 yuan for remade items [2][3]. - Initial offerings included remaking old clothes into pet apparel, which was both environmentally friendly and unique, although market response was mixed [10][30]. Group 3: Consumer Behavior - Pet owners, particularly in urban areas like Shanghai, are willing to spend significantly on their pets, often treating them as family members [8][9]. - Seasonal trends influence purchasing behavior, with winter and holidays being peak times for pet clothing sales [11][12]. Group 4: Design and Customization Process - The customization process involves understanding the specific measurements and preferences of both the pet and the owner, ensuring a tailored fit and style [17][18]. - The designer employs a trial-and-error approach, creating sample garments to ensure proper fit before finalizing the design [19]. Group 5: Emotional Value and Market Trends - The emotional connection between pet owners and their pets drives the demand for personalized clothing, as owners seek to express their affection through unique designs [30][31]. - The trend of pet fashion is evolving, with influences from human fashion trends, including outdoor styles and luxury brand aesthetics being adapted for pets [23][24].