Bruce Weber for Shinola
Bruce Weber has shot some of the most memorable and controversial fashion images of all time – remember the racy Calvin Klein adverts of the 80’s and the semi-clad men in Abercrombie & Fitch’s naughty campaigns?
He’s also well-known for his love of animals; his constant companions – a sizeable pack of Golden Retrievers, have appeared in many of his films and images.
Exciting news then that the iconic America photographer has teamed up with Detroit-based brand Shinola to launch a cool new collection dog accessories for man’s best friend.
The Shinola Pet collection includes leashes, collars, beds and toys that were designed and developed together with Bruce Weber and the Shinola design team.
Apart from looking great, some of the toys are being made in partnership with The Empowerment Plan, a Detroit-based organisation that hires women from local shelters, training them in industrial sewing and manufacturing.
“I told the Shinola design team that my dogs have been barking at me for years about getting a new collar or leash, a comfy bed, some hand made toys, like all the other spoiled dogs in the world. I said ok, but you have to start behaving yourself. I don’t want any spoiled brats around here. Since then they’re still wild and wonderful and they have all the loyal traits of a dog but they still run into our living room soaking wet and jump on the couch,” said Bruce Weber.
If you’re not familiar with the Shinola story – you need to get up to speed. Started by entrepreneur Tom Kartsotis, Shinola launched a watch factory in bankrupt Detroit to bring manufacturing back to the once thriving city. Working with skilled craftspeople, they refused to believe that local industry was dead – and they were right.
As part of the Shinola Pet launch, Shinola and Bruce Weber are also championing causes close to their hearts and their home, Detroit – including advocate groups like the Michigan Humane Society, who make sure that animals have a chance at a great life.
The Shinola Pet range is available in all Shinola stores (Detroit, NYC, Minneapolis) as well as Shinola.com. Customers in the UK and Europe will be able to purchase the products from their website later this year – stay tuned! The collection starts at $12.00 (£8.00) to $230 (£140.00).
