Published: 14 July 2025 , By: My Alteration team, Read time: ~4 min, Location: Melbourne, Australia
Throwing a party for your pooch? Whether it's a birthday bash or a dress-up day with furry friends, a custom dog party costume is the cutest way to get tails wagging. And the best part? You can totally make it yourself!
Here’s how to turn a regular sweatshirt into a fabulous party outfit for your pup — with just a few materials and your dog’s existing bodysuit as a guide!
Choose a stretchy sweatshirt made from comfy, breathable fabric. Cotton with a bit of stretch is ideal.
Pick a colour or print that fits the party vibe — sparkles, florals, stripes, you name it!
Tip: This will become your base fabric — basically the blank canvas for your costume magic.
Next up, grab a dog bodysuit that already fits your pup well.
1. Lay it flat on top of the sweatshirt.
2. Trace around the shape – the body, sleeves, and neck.
3. Add a little seam allowance (about 1cm) around the edges so you have room to sew.
4. Cut out your pieces!
We’ll show this in the video: No need to be perfect — just follow the general shape and keep the fabric stretchy side facing the same way.
If you’ve got a sewing machine — great! If not, hand-stitching works just fine too.
Sew the body parts first.
Then attach the sleeves.
Leave space for tail and toilet breaks!
Optional: Add a little Velcro, buttons or elastic at the neck or belly to make dressing up easy.
Now for the fun part — turning the bodysuit into a PARTY OUTFIT! 🎊
Add ribbons, bows, frills, or patches.
Glue or sew on stars, hearts, or mini party hats.
Try themed ideas like a cowboy, unicorn, disco dancer, or birthday cake!
Dress your pup, grab your phone, and record those adorable party moments! Share the joy with your followers using hashtags like #DogPartyLook #PawtyCostumeDIY
Always make sure your dog can move, sit, and lie down comfortably.
Avoid decorations that can be chewed off and swallowed.
Keep the costume light and breathable, especially in warm weather.
Want us to help create a custom one? 🎨🐾
Just bring your dog’s bodysuit and idea photos — we’ll stitch the paw-fect look together.