5 Fashion must-haves for black cat lovers

Black cats have the lowest adoption rate of any animal at the shelter. I see that statistic online a lot, and it has become more real to me as I’ve started visiting shelters and witnessed cage after cage filled with beautiful black felines in need of homes.

Words can’t express how sad this makes me, especially since my experience with black cats has been nothing short of amazing. My black cat Charlie, who recently turned eight, is one of the sweetest, most loyal and loving creatures on the planet (we call him velcro kitty). Forget the outlandish superstitions — I’m 100-percent convinced that black cats bring nothing but good luck and happiness to those who come their way.

That being said, I’m all for spreading black cat awareness, while also celebrating my favorite colored kitties in style. I’m drawn to black cat clothing and accessories in the same way that I’m attracted to the cats themselves, and have picked out some of my favorite pieces, which are sure to bring good fashion fortune and look fab at the same time.

1. Copy Cat Dress

Um, double your pleasure, double your fun? The Copy Cat Dress from Nasty Gal leaves little to the imagination with twin black kitties that cover your … well, you know.

The body-conscious dress, which includes a panel of nude mesh to keep everything in place, appears to be inspired by Brazilian designer Reinaldo Louren’s 2012 line of barely there cat-inspired evening wear, which also featured well-placed cat heads. Truth be told, I adore black kitties like no other, but it remains to be seen if even my devotion goes THIS far.

2. The Ultimate Kitty Gift Box

Another great way too boost your profile is to drape yourself in jewelry that pays tribute to your favorite cat. I’ve been admiring the Kitty Collection from I Love Crafty forever now, and what better way to get your feline fix than with a whole box of goodies that make the perfect compliment to any outfit?

The Ultimate Kitty Gift Box includes an oversized cat necklace, cat nap ring, and a pair of ingenious kitty collar tips that turn any button up into a fresh piece of feline fashion. The unique, handmade pieces can be worn separately, or throw them together to achieve the total Catwoman look.

3. Lazy Oaf Cat Leggings

I’ve already used this space to discuss cat leggings at length, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t include this ridiculously adorable entry into the legwear race from Lazy Oaf.

While most cat leggings I’ve seen feature some sort of whimsical kitty print, these guys are next level with a bold black cat design that takes up almost the entire length of your leg! There’s no mistaking your cat lady status when you hit the gym or go grocery shopping with these green-eyed kitties in tow.

4. Velvet Cat Purse

Cat totes are pretty common these days, but a well-hewn cat purse is another story. That’s why I was instantly smitten with this sleepy kitty bag, which needs to be resting on my shoulder right meow!

The velvet bag, available in black and red, has a slew of desirous characteristics, including that precious lil’ gold-embroidered face, dainty ears, and a Chanel-inspired detachable rope chain strap. Plus, it actually looks roomy enough to carry some stuff around in, so you won’t be relegated to a tissue and small tube of lipgloss for the night.

5. Cheshire Cat Scarf

The start of summer isn’t necessarily the time to invest in a cashmere cat scarf, but I couldn’t resist including this luxury entry on my list of black cat chic.

Designer Athena Procopiou conceived this Italian made creation, which features a bevy of black cats (which coincidentally resemble my little Charlie), alongside gorgeous blooms of orchids and roses. To anyone who gets annoyed when they put on a cat scarf and the kitties go into hiding, fear not. The best part of the design is that the cats are placed correctly on the scarf, so they’ll still show up even when you have it tied up.

Looking for more cat style? Check these out:

• These 5 Cats LOVE the Water — They’re on Bathing Suits
• Food, Cats and Fashion: Our Favorite Things, Together at Last
• Cat Decor Need Not Be Clunky: 5 Pieces We Love