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Recently, on September 6, 2023, the launch of House of Furry marked a transformative moment in the pet fashion industry. Co-founders Shuyi Qi and Yitong Zoey Zhao are leading the charge with a bold mission: to marry luxury design with environmental sustainability. Their shared vision for reshaping the industry reflects their deep understanding of fashion’s evolving landscape and their commitment to creating an eco-conscious future.
The pet fashion industry is booming, with global market projections reaching an impressive $1.5 billion by 2025. However, this growth has often come at a cost, as fast fashion practices from human apparel have bled into pet clothing. Disposable designs, prioritizing aesthetics over sustainability, have left an environmental footprint that can no longer be ignored.
Enter House of Furry, which challenges these norms by offering a new approach. The brand’s innovative ethos focuses on creating stylish, durable, and sustainable pet products that resonate with environmentally conscious consumers. Recent statistics underscore this shift in priorities, with 68% of pet owners now considering environmental impact in their purchasing decisions.
At the forefront of this initiative is Shuyi Qi, also the head designer, whose visionary leadership is shaping House of Furry’s identity. With a Master’s in Design Management from Pratt Institute and a BA in Visual Art from Wheaton College, Qi’s academic and professional journey underscores her expertise in sustainable fashion. Her work bridges the gap between design innovation and environmental stewardship, positioning her as a trailblazer in eco-conscious luxury.
Her co-founder, Yitong Zoey Zhao, complements this vision with her own distinctive approach to design. Holding a Bachelor’s in Fashion Design from the California College of the Arts and a Master’s in Design Management from Pratt Institute, Zhao’s background blends artistry and functionality. Recognized as a finalist in the 2018 Remake Made in Mexico competition, Zhao has consistently championed ethical practices by integrating traditional craftsmanship with modern design techniques.
“House of Furry was founded on a simple yet profound principle: to craft pet products that seamlessly blend beauty and sustainability,” Zhao shared. “Our vision goes beyond creating exquisite designs; we aim to spark a deeper dialogue about the transformative power of design in driving meaningful and lasting change.”
Central to House of Furry’s philosophy is its 4P Mission (PET, PEOPLE, PRODUCT, PLANET), which guides every aspect of the brand’s operations. This comprehensive approach addresses the needs of pets and their owners while prioritizing products that minimize environmental harm. By championing this holistic ethos, House of Furry carves out a unique space in a competitive market.
During our interview, Qi passionately underscored the brand’s unwavering commitment to global sustainability goals. “Our dedication to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals goes far beyond mere alignment with global standards—it is a pledge to take meaningful responsibility for our impact on the planet,” Qi explained. “For us, this is not just a business initiative; it is a transformative movement aimed at reshaping the very definition of luxury. By intertwining sustainability with innovation, we aspire to demonstrate that true luxury lies in creating products that not only elevate aesthetics but also inspire a deeper sense of environmental and social responsibility.”
House of Furry’s offerings go beyond mere aesthetics—they symbolize the values of their customers. With pets occupying an increasingly central role in households worldwide, the brand sees an opportunity to create products that reflect both emotional connections and ethical choices.
As the industry continues to evolve, House of Furry stands as a beacon for sustainable luxury in pet fashion. By pushing the boundaries of sustainable luxury, and under the leadership of Qi and Zhao, the brand exemplifies how design innovation can spark a movement—transforming pet apparel into a reflection of our collective aspirations for a more thoughtful, stylish, and environmentally friendly future.
