Meet Melodee Beckman | Where Iggy Fashion meets Function

We had the good fortune of connecting with Melodee Beckman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melodee, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I have been a creative seamstress most of my life as a hobby. When my daughter adopted her first Italian Greyhound I started sewing for her pup as a way to help out her budget. Italian Greyhounds are a breed when clothing is a necessity. After sewing for her pup for about 3 years I decided to start a small shop online to see if their were other owners in need of clothing.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I opened one of the first Italian Greyhound shops that offered custom fit, like a tailor does for 2 legged clients. What makes this shop different is that clients can choose a style that they want along with the fabric that they want it created from. There are a lot of cute dog clothing stores both brick and mortar and online. What make my shop different is that the clothing although adorable and well made is also very functional. Italian Greyhounds are quick moving sighthounds with slender legs and light to minimal hair covering their skin. Clothing must fit well but also allow the Italian Greyhounds to have full mobility. The challenge to find the right fabrics is constant. Years ago I was educated about the high insidence of skin cancer amoung this breed, Especially in Colorado with the high elevations and lots of outside activites. I added a line of UV blocking fabrics to create clothing from to protect this breed.
Its always a challenge to be on the cutting edge of new fabrics and breed needs. I love what I do and am known affectionatley as the fabric godmother by my long time clients.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Hiking in Colorado is an experience that shouldn’t be missed by any visitor.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
To all the Rescue Societies that find furever homes for Italian Greyhounds. Including but not limited to San Luis Valley Animal Welfare Society in Alamosa Colorado

Website: Littlemiloscloset.etsy.com

Instagram: littlemiloscloset

Facebook: Little Milos Closet

Other: Etsy.com/shops/littlemiloscloset

Image Credits
Image Credit William Penlander