Madonna, Miami Vice, Rubik’s Cube, the Queen of England, even the California Raisons were all creatively represented at the 12th annual New York Pet Fashion Show Presented by Tropiclean, which descended upon the Hotel Pennsylvania Thursday night, featuring 80s fashion styles in all their glory. The theme – Rescued by the 80’s –  begged camp, and participants took the bait, trying to outdo each other with outrageous designs. All proceeds from the evening went to the Mayor’s Alliance for NYC Animals and the 150 participating shelters and rescue groups under its umbrella.

Gregg Oehler, Rachel Grant & me!

Event co-Chair/co-Founders, Gregg Oehler and Ada Nieves, along with the evening’s emcee, Maria Milito of Q104.3 radio, kicked the night off with the Gold Paw Awards ceremony, honoring those who’ve made a difference in helping animals around the world.  I was honored to present to former Bond Girl, adventurer and activist, Rachel Grant, who was named Humanitarian of the Year for the work she’s doing to draw attention to rescue and adoption. Model and documentarian, Katie Cleary, was named Documentary Producer of the Year for her film, Give Me Shelter. Gifted lensman, Brad Oliphant, was honored with the Nature Photographer of the Year award, the Legacy Award went to Brock, the canine inspiration behind Pilots ‘n’ Paws, an amazing service that flies rescued dogs to safe havens and forever homes. The Excellence Award went to Last Chance Animal Rescue. Jennifer Bartok-Taylor of Celebrity Catwalk, Heidi Walker of Yorkies911 and Guardians of Rescue all received Special Achievement Awards for their work raising money for rescue and bringing attention to adopting.

The Pupscouts NYC Troop 4 founders, Susan Godwin and Jennifer-Jo Moyer, presented a check to the Mayor’s Alliance of NYC Animals and the org’s Stephanie Mattera accepted on behalf. Mattera also walked the runway, pushing a Katie’s Carriage design with rescue pups in outfits designed by Wendy Agramonte.

The Mayor’s Alliance’s Stephanie Mattera rocking it down the runway with a rescue pup

And, rescues weren’t just talked about, they were present and dressed to impress as they took to the runway. Dogs from Animal Care Centers, Eve’s Sanctuary, Little Shelter and others strutted their stuff,  dressed in creative, outrageous outfits.

Chews Happiness, a brand I love, showcased their beautiful dog and matching women’s sweaters.

Meeta and a rescue pup, modeling the gorgeous Chews Happiness matching yak wool sweater and shawl.

Ada Nieves’ Rainbow Fake Fur dog coat on Zsa Zsa, and Suzanne Boule’s own matching one made for a colorful display

Ada Nieves demonstrated her design prowess, creating several of the evening’s outfits, including the very cool Rainbow Fake Fur dog coat, inspired by the one Miley Cyrus wore to the ONE campaign bash in New York City and donned here by cutie patootie, Zsa Zsa. Mom, Suzanne Boulle, purchased her matching rainbow coat from the very designer in China who made Miley’s!

Karen Sanabria with Papi

Ada also displayed her versatility, designing a tiny, sequined dinner jacket for bearded dragon, Papi, owned by Karen Sanabria. Papi’s piece was inspired by the 80’s dinner jackets of Oleg Cassini, an early designer utilizing bling. I’m told Cassini blamed himself for the death of 250,000 leopards, killed due to the enormous popularity of a coat he created for Jackie Kennedy. He promptly eschewed real fur from then on, becoming one of the first major designers to create micro fiber faux fur garments in 1999.

Amy & Danny Cox, with Pearl, Penelope and Paco II, as Cali Raisons!

Another favorite of mine were the California Raisons, an ambitious ensemble designed by Amy Cox and created by Danielle Pursel of SewDogGoneCreative etsy shop. The costume was worn by Amy, her husband, Danny Cox, and three of their dogs – Yorkie Penelope, and Chihuahuas Paco II and Pearl. Pearl’s ornate gown was clever; the 80’s Marvin Gaye song title, “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” was written across the back. Penelope’s gown had the words, “California Raisons” on it. The design was cohesive and fun and they deservedly placed in the costume contest.

Miguel Rodriguez with his muse, Venus, wearing his Christian Lacroix-inspired paper doilie design

For the couture runway show, the designer’s challenge was to create garments using no fabric at all, and the creativity of some of the creations was truly inspiring. Miguel Rodriguez used scalloped paper doilies, tape, feathers, paper flowers and paint to create a sumptuous, tiered gown, inspired by the haute couture of 80’s-era Christian Lacroix.

Joanna Aqua of New York-based, Pet Monarchy, chose the iconic, 80’s tv show, Dynasty, with all of its glamour, big jewelry and frills. What material did she choose to showcase her vision?  None other than frosted gold and pearly iridescent plastic shower curtains! Aqua included LED lighting and floating items in both the bodice and skirt, adding an expected and playful touch to the design. Very impressive! Modeling two complementing dresses she created were her muse Sphynx cat, Coco-Mau Aqua and 8-month old puppy, Leah.

Pet couturier, Anthony Rubio, channeling Miami Vice, with his pastel creations on Bogie & Kimba

Anthony Rubio of Anthony Rubio Designs, used dyed coffee filters to create little jackets in Pantone’s colors of the year – Rose Quartz and Serenity Blue – inspired by those worn by 80’s Miami Vice heart throbs, Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas. Julie Lancaster of Off the Cuff Stuff for Pets, used buttons inspired by British fashion for her designs; Kevin Ugarte of Wow Wow Ugarte Collection used an expanse of aluminum foil to create a waterfall-like effect.

Kevin Ugarte with his muse, Princess, wearing his foil creation.

Ruben Santana of King Tut Pet Styling & Fashion, was ingenious with his use of colored pipe cleaners for his “The Coiled Jewel” design, inspired by the South Beach art deco revival of the 80’s. He also created another piece,  “Rubik’s Royal,” made from aluminum foil, styrofoam, paint and willow flowers, inspired by the world-famous Rubik’s Cube brain game.

The very talented Ruben Santana, dressed as Boy George, and his pups in his amazing designs

That game was a popular cultural one to mine, as Margaret Konecky of The Elegant Hare also chose it for her and rescue dog, Delilah’s gorgeous matching cashmere sweaters and little doggie tophat.

Margaret Konecky of The Elegant Hare in Rubik’s Cube-inspired cashmere matching outfits.
Photo credit: Judith H. Block

Delilah was a popular runway model, also walking with Olympic Gold Champion, Dominique Moceanu of Creations by C+C stunning human and pet jewelry designs, dressed in a black and hot pink homage to Cyndi Lauper.

Dominique Moceanu and rescue, Delilah, channeling Cyndi Lauper

And, a chicken (Lady Gaga) wore colorful tulle, inspired by Cyndi Lauper and created by Ada Nieves; a frog (Prince Charming) “walked” the runway in a carry on jar, hand painted in an 80’s theme by Nieves,   and a generous helping of felines also made appearances on on the runway.

Lady Gaga as Cyndi Lauper? I guess stranger things have happened!

One costume I loved depicting the Royal Wedding of Princess Diana and Prince Charles, another popular iconic choice, and three adorable girls (one of them a model for New York Fashion Week), dressed in red, sequined Royal Guards regalia, pushing the two kitties of honor in their royal carriage, down the catwalk.

Kitties getting married! Prince Charles & Princess Diana with the Royal Guards.

Some other notables included:

Rock ‘n’ roll, Madonna style, designed by Cheryl Keninger, worn by Debbie Nap, with matching design on Queen Guinevere.
Photo credit: Judith H. Block

Queen Guinevere in her matching design to her mom’s, designed by Cheryl Keninger.
photo credit: Judith H. Block

Ada Nieves design, inspired by NYC graffiti, reading “donate; New Yorkies.” Worn by Porshia Forster.

The Cabbage Patch Kids, designed and walked by Diane Lucci.

More Madonna! Terry St. Angelo and Nevada in matching cone bras, inspired by the iconic Jean Paul Gaultier design.

Karen Varley (designer) with her Pittie, Sugar, feeling very Billy Idol punk.

The evening closed with a Best of the 80’s Costume Contest, whereby anyone could enter with their own designs. Best in Show was awarded to Lynn Lina with her pup, Baxter, and Debbie Nap with her runway staple dog, Queen Guinevere, also recreating the Royal Wedding, with Queen Guinevere, portraying the Princess, walked by Diana’s mother and “Charles,” being walked by the Queen of England.  Lynn’s Queen was of the campy variety, and she played it to the hilt, entertaining the audience in grand style. Julie Lancaster, of Off the Cuff Stuff for Pets, designed all of the outfits in this winning ensemble.

The Winner’s Circle: l to r: winning designer, Julie Lancaster, Debbie Nap with Queen Guinevere, Lynn Lina with Baxter and Danny & Amy Cox.

As the last dog and human models left the runway, it seemed the four hour event had flown by in a whir of bright color, big hair, leg warmers, sequins, safety pins, shoulder pads and lots of fun. This was a great showcase for pet designer creativity, and I look forward to seeing what inspires unexpected genius next year!

For more information on the Mayor’s Alliance for NYC Animals.

Do you do pet fashion? Weigh in in the comments!

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Have you ever been behind the scenes at a well-known designer’s atelier? What about backstage at a New York Fashion Week runway show? This week’s Just My Style is extra special, because we’re going to do just that! While for the past two weeks, celebrated pet couturier, Anthony Rubio, has weighed in on current trends and how to wear them and how to get the best fit for your pooch, today it’s all about what’s behind the curtain, the grit behind the glamour. Anthony has invited us into his studio to watch him work, and backstage for his Spring/Summer 2016 New York Fashion Week celebrated runway show, featuring pet and human fashion!

So, grab your favorite beverage, get cozy and let’s be voyeurs!

Just My Style: Behind the Curtain

by Anthony Rubio

A peek into my process – The Sketch & The Hunt!

For those who don’t know, New York Fashion Week presents a full season ahead. It descends upon New York City two times a year; in September for Spring fashion  and in February for the following Fall. As such,  designers have to research and get insight into what may be trending, if not make their own predictions for that coming season. Things I consider when predicting what will be hot, are what is being shown on runways in other locales like Paris, London, Milan, and even Dubai. Inspiration comes from where ever and when ever. Fashion, to me, is like religion. I read, eat, drink and dream fashion!

Anthony’s tools of the trade

While I originally studied women’s wear design at school, pet fashion is my priority. In preparing for my shows, I decide what direction I’d like to go, then begin basic sketching. The next step is the fun part I call “The Hunt!” Taking into account the season I’m presenting, I begin searching for the textiles. A lot of foot work and investigation is necessary. I refuse to skimp on materials. For me, quality is more important than price. While a discount is welcomed, I usually break the bank purchasing what I deem necessary to bring my designs to life.

In the studio, putting the finishing touches on an adorable outfit

 The design takes shape!

I try to create all of the canine designs first, and then coordinate or match the human designs afterwards. I create patterns, followed by mock ups of each design, where needed. I collect my mannequins and start draping the fabrics to make sure the chosen textile will work and meet my desired specifications.

Then, it’s time to cut and pin!  As the fabric takes shape on the dress form, it’s very exciting. Once I’m satisfied, I take the pinned fabrics and do my basting. For those who don’t know, basting stitches are usually long, spread out stitches done by hand to hold fabric pieces in place, prior to permanently sewing them. They can easily be pulled out, once you’ve permanently stitched. After basting, it all goes to the sewing machine!

After the garment has been sewn, I schedule a fitting with the pet or human model to make needed adjustments. Once done, I either steam or press the garment, depending on how delicate the fabric is, before I start doing any decorating or embellishing, which is a featured part of my designs.

Freshly created, ornate hats

Is your dog my perfect model?

There are a few things I consider when choosing who will walk in my runway designs. What dog or human model will meet the criteria to fulfill my dream presentation? I have a vision about how I want my designs to look on the runway and I do my best to choose models that will bring that to life.

I prefer to use seasoned models, but do bring in new dogs and humans. I’ve also been known to contact the local shelters to include a dog up for adoption, in order to do my part to bring much-needed attention to the plight of abandoned pets needing forever homes. Once casting is done, I’ll get the specific measurements of all the models. At this point, the production of my new creations begin!

Sometimes, my canine models are famous. Just below are Instagram dog stars @ChloeKardoggian, @EllaBeantheDog and @ChloetheMiniFrenchie. They might look like nervous models, but they were just relaxing backstage.

l to r: Chloe Kardoggian, Ella Bean, Chloe the Mini Frenchie

 What’s behind the curtain of a big runway show?

The most important garments in a runway show are the ones that open the show, because this sets the tone and get the most media coverage, and the grand finale, which must leave a memorable impression. This is the WOW moment that leaves the audience wanting more and looking forward to your next presentation. It can make or break a designer.

For my upcoming New York Fashion Week show on  February 14, I am presenting examples of the trends we discussed in the first post of this series. I’ll have metallics, faux furs, animal prints and lots of bling. I design every piece with the idea that any of them has the potential to either open or close my show. I couldn’t begin to tell you how many crystals, beads, stitches or trims have been utilized for a particular garment,  because I don’t limit myself and use as much as needed to get that garment to the level of my expectations.

Pre-Show Prep for Doggie Divas

It may be hard to believe but the canine models are the easiest ones to work with. There is no competitiveness or envy. They are here to please and don’t get stressed about showing. Before the show begins, they actually sleep and cuddle with their owners. I take advantage of this, and ask that the owners spend time with their chosen human model to get to know each other and for the dogs to acclimate and get comfortable. It’s important the dog feels safe when walking the runway. I want it all to be a seamless transition.

Model, Nicole, wrangles Magneto down the runway

In my SS16 show, we decided to break in a new canine model. Though he has a very sweet disposition, 110 lb+ Magneto, the Leonberger, was still a pup and very attached to his mommy. When he went out on the runway and saw all the people and flashing cameras, he suddenly wanted to bolt, but thankfully, I had assigned him an experienced and brave model, who reigned him in long enough to finish the presentation. They actually got some of the best photos and press of all the models!

Let the show begin!

When you’re orchestrating a runway show, every detail matters. I have to admit, and I’m embarrassed to say this, I help dress and then inspect each and every model before they go out onto that runway. Before that, I will have met with hair, make up people and groomers to stylize each look before they even get dressed!

Backstage preps; tensions and excitement are high!

There is so much tension and excitement rolled into pre-show set up back stage. I go into automatic mode, and suppress my nervousness while setting the order of each model to walk the runway. I try to get personal photos and film footage, but in strict confidence to the human models, prefer not to go public keeping this for my own personal archives.

At that moment right before the first model goes out, I give them a pep talk as a group, while my stomach does summersaults. I don’t show the stress or nervousness I feel, to avoid making the models nervous, too, but truth be told I get light headed at times!

The designer’s walk at the close of the show, with one of my favorites pieces from his runway

By the time the last model goes out, I will have an idea of the audience reaction. I take a deep breath and end the final model’s walk with my runway walk and bow. As I come off the runway, my knees get week, my eyes water and I finally exhale. We’ve done it.

Thank you, Anthony! I have goosebumps! For those who missed Rubio’s New York Fashion Week show last September, you can see it in its entirety, just below. Read on to discover what’s next!

Did you feel like you were there; could you imagine Anthony’s process and the anticipation of the show?

For those in and around New York or who want to travel to New York during New York Fashion Week, Anthony will be doing in his own runway show on February 14th at Gotham Hall, and as part of the famed New York Pet Fashion Show on February 11 at the Hotel Pennsylvania.

I’ll be there, as a presenter and Official Style Expert of the 2016 New York Pet Fashion Show, and as an excited spectator at Anthony’s own show, covering it to bring the most tantalizing fashion back to you, here on Bark & Swagger.

We still have two more weeks to go with Anthony in the Just My Style series. Tune in next week for a post I think you’ll love on DIY fashion, where Anthony will have a very special surprise for you!

Hippy chic

There was an excitement and a sense of fun in the air Thursday night at the 11th annual New York Pet Fashion Show. And, it was no surprise. The theme this year was “A Rescue Revolution – Peace, Love and Animal Rescue; A Tribute to the 60’s & 70’s in Music, Fashion and Attitude!” It’s a mouthful, but the sheer fun it inspired in recreating those seminal styles of the era, paid dividends all night long.

Top pet designers pulled out all the stops to showcase their spin on the sassy, showy or hippy chic creations that were strut down the runway, all for a great cause. As the title suggests, the night was all about rescuing, and over 150 shelters were represented by the fundraiser’s recipient non-profit, the Mayor’s Alliance of NYC’s Animals.

Disco glitter and mirrors, love-in lace, tie-dye and beads and musical icons’ signature fashions were all mined to turn out some of the most outrageous and inspired fashion this reporter has seen at the event. I’ll share my faves in photos, but first want to acknowledge those honored with a Golden Paw Award,  for their important contributions to raising awareness about rescuing and to the well-being of pets.

Show creators Gregg Oehler & Ada Nieves with Vanilla, being interviewed by Gail King of King TV

Event Co-Chairs Gregg Oehler of Oehler Media and Hamptons Pet magazine, and uber designer and event creative director, Ada Nieves, co-founded the New York Pet Fashion Show to honor those designers turning out exemplary work, to bring attention to shelter pets and to celebrate the creative energy of the then newly-burgeoning pet fashion scene.  Thursday night, both were making it happen in full force; Gregg, unfortunately on crutches from an accident (which didn’t seem to slow him down one bit), and Ada, with her headset and fringed top and bag, orchestrating the three runway shows.

The doggy divas dazzled on the red carpet, which was co-hosted by Bravo TV’s Chantelle Fraser and Hamptons Pet owner, Jewel Morris, a pet philanthropist and creator of the Pet Hero Awards which celebrates adopting and local shelters in the Hamptons each summer.

Chantelle Fraser, Gregg Oehler, Kristy Hinze Clark & Jewel Morris

Honorees for the Golden Paws were awarded in five categories:

Golden Paw Award Humanitarian of the Year honoree, Kristy Hinze Clark

Humanitarian of the Year: Supermodel Kristy Hinze Clark was named for her work championing rescues (she has four mini Schnauzer rescues) and for her work in helping preserve the health of our oceans and, therefore, the lives of our fellow creatures living there. Kristy shared with me what an honor it is to work with pets and to be recognized in this way. “I can’t stress enough the importance of adoption,” she emphasized. “There are so many animals needing homes.” When I asked her what was the most fun of a pet fashion event inspired by the 60’s and 70’s, Hinze Clark enthused, “While I didn’t live through that era, the fashion was so original and fun! I love the colors and the creativity here tonight.”

l to r: Event MC, Maria Milito of Q104.3 radio, Golden Paw Award honoree, Melinda Toporoff of Animal Planet and Gregg Oehler

Television Producer of the Year: Melinda Toporoff, Executive Producer of Animal Planet and its popular Puppy Bowl franchise, was honored for the attention she brings to shelter pets through the shows she works on and champions.  Melinda is terrific and she and her team come up with such creative and wacky ways to bring attention to the dozens of shelter puppies that participate in Puppy Bowl. She relayed they were already in conversations about next year’s event. Can’t wait!

l to r: Golden Paw Award winners David Crouch and Debi Boies, with Kate Quinn, Executive Director of Pilots N Paws, jewelry designer Chen Sahar, Hamptons Pet Travel Editor, Loren Morrissey & Gregg Oehler

The Air Rescue Award went to Pilots N Paws’ Debi Boies. Debi has built this organization into a 5000 pilot program nationwide, that offers a platform for shelters, individuals and those who transport animals in need to connect and help save lives. Wow. Needless to say, Boies is a major champion of Adopt Don’t Shop. “I’m humbled by this award,” Boies shared. “This is a problem we can solve! If everyone adopted, we’d have far less in our shelters.”

The Surgical Animal Care Award was given to D.V.M. surgeon, Dr. David Crouch. The surgery David performs is often life-saving, allowing an animal to return to a normal life. He’s even operated on a snow leopard!  Crouch expressed gratitude at being able to serve the animals in his care.

Golden Paw Award honoree, Dr. Marty Goldstein

The Integrative Vet Award recognizes a doctor who utilizes alternative ways to treat animal illness. No one else deserved this award more than the irrepressible Dr. Marty Goldstein. Marty was one of the first holistic vets on the scene 40 years ago, and has surmounted many obstacles on the road to educating both the medical community and the public on the benefits of a natural approach. Goldstein shared with me an exciting opportunity he has to participate as the vet to two of the most historic animals in the television pantheon and the culture, at large.

A noted Broadway producer is staging a production about the legendary Western stars, Roy Rogers and Dale Evans that will, of course, include Roy’s two cherished animal companions, his golden palomino Trigger, and his German Shepherd, Bullet. Goldstein was asked to be the veterinarian to these animal actors. Through this,  Dr. Marty (as he’s often called), will have an amazing platform to share preventative health care information with the public. I’m excited to watch this unfold and wish Marty tons of success!

Israeli jewelry designer, Chen Sahar, created a stunning dog collar, matching bracelet and ring, which she wore, made of precious and semi-precious stones, which were on display at the event.

The designers, shelter pups and canine fashion stars were showcased throughout three runway shows, all having their own themes.

Mingling just before, I met up with Suzanne Donaldson, a.k.a. Mrs. Sizzle, who has one of the smartest, coolest pet fashion meets photography meets art meets rescue sites, called MrsSizzle.com. She was chatting with designer Ruben Santana, whose brightly colored floral bear Addidas I loved! Santana’s pup, King Tut, was dyed and groomed by him and looked very chic!

Suzanne Donaldson (MrsSizzle.com) and designer Ruben Santana with King Tut

Up first was the Rescues on the Runway show, featuring adoptable dogs and cats from several of the Mayor’s Alliance-affiliated shelters. Some of my picks were:

Sharon Folkes with her diva chickens, Lady Gaga & Beyonce on the runway

• “Birds” wasn’t just a 60’s slang for girls last night. In a New York Pet Fashion Show first, two celebrity diva chickens made an appearance on the runway! Yes, that’s right, folks. Two chickens rescued by Sharon Folkes from a grim fate, one dyed pink and both dolled up, were carried down the runway in their mama’s arms. With such fashionable feathers, fitting names were required, of course! Beyonce and Lady Gaga stepped in to lend theirs.

Mary Fayet’s darlings, Pumpkin & Lexi

• Mary Fayet had her two precious pups, Pumpkin and Lexi, both unable to walk on their own. They were each ensconced in very cool decorative carts that they maneuvered like experts! Pumpkin was born without fully developed front paws and Lexi was the victim of a broken back from abuse. Just horrible. However, both looked very well adjusted and happy and their outfits and carts were really cute! It’s wonderful to see them thriving.

Carmen Diaz with Anakin Luke Skywalker, wearing a gorgeous, hand-painted design by Ada Nieves

• Carmen Diaz from Beverly Hills via Madrid, came in for the show with her two Chihuahuas, Darth Vadar and Anakin Luke Skywalker. When I first met them, Darth Vadar was dressed in a cool layered tee and had on 60’s shades. Anakin was dressed in a raspberry-colored sequined hoodie. Both were precious. Carmen told me how she drove five hours to rescue Darth Vadar from a horrible shelter in San Sebastian, Spain, where he was abused and being eaten by the other dogs! Now, a couple of years later, he’s a happy and healthy pup and his sibling, Anakin, is the spoiled and pampered little girl she should be! When I saw them later, just before they walked in the show, Diaz had on a beautiful, floral, flowing gown. As is her way, the pups matched! Anakin wore a gorgeous floral creation, custom made and hand painted by Ada Nieves, and Darth Vadar wore a fabu hand painted vest, also by Nieves.

Designers Couture Retro Show

Next up was the Designer Couture Retro Show, where some of the most illustrious in the pet fashion world were represented on the runway. My faves were:

Rebecca Bissi & Sophia in her creations on the runway

• Designer Rebecca Bissi walked with her client, the beautiful snow Pomeranian, Sophia, in stunning matching creations. Bissi designed multi-colored, mod, floral-printed outfits, hers accented by a beaded neckline and Sophia’s, with a beaded trim, that offered a breath of fresh air in the show.
• A tribute to the Beatles’ Yellow Submarine was a must for the era, and it was done with whimsical creativity, complete with an Ed Sullivan placard , honoring the late television entertainer, whose show broke them in the States. The pup was Paul, of course!

The Beatles Tribute ensemble on the runway

• Tangerine orange, gold and white in dazzling disco chic was what Gale Ricany, with Bella Mia, rocked on the runway. Made by Exclusively Poochie by Gale. Reminded me of Palm Beach meets Beverly Hills.

Gale Ricany with Bella Mia in
Exclusively Poochie by Gale Designs.

• Designer Kevin Ugarte created an impressive three-layered  outfit, where the gown’s skirt detaches to highlight the feather plume,decoration. And, that detaches to reveal the embellished vest. Hippy chic in fabrics but fantasy in feel.

Designer Kevin Ugarte with his Fantasy Hippie Chic 3-layered ensemble. Very impressive!

• Last year, pet couturier Anthony Rubio walked away with the Designer of the Year honors. Rubio and his pups Bogie and Kimba, looked fantastic in their Sargent Pepper-inspired costumes in electrifying colors with cool badges and fabrics.

Anthony Rubio, Bogie & Kimba in their Sargent Pepper-inspired creations

• Another fave doggy diva is Sophia Loren and her mom, Anne Maria Tafoya. Designer Jaimie Diaz, one of Sophia’s main fashion sources, created a gorgeous lilac gown in bloom with lots of hand sewn flowers. The gown is part of her Starwind Collection, inspired by Christian Dior’s pieces from the movie Arabesque, starring Sophia Loren and Gregory Peck.  How glamorous!

The beautiful Sophia Loren in a gorgeous Jaimie Diaz Couture gown

• Dr. Danny and Amy Cox of McKinney, Texas, are angels to animals and their parents with their mobile spay/neuter and vaccination vet practice, The Pet Vet and The Shot Spot. But, they know how to have fun, and made a huge splash on the runway, putting the D in Disco and Dazzle. Danny, Amy and their adorable three pups were all decked out in black and silver sequins, with a sparkly stroller to match.

Danny & Amy Cox in Amy’s designs

• Even Elvis was represented, with a hippy flair, by designer Miguel Rodriguez, who created a tribute cape to the icon he showcased on the runway.

Miguel Rodriguez in a full on Elvis tribute

Who Captured Designer of the Year?

Finally, with the anticipation at a fever pitch, this year’s Best in Show Costume Contest kicked off. Over 30 contestants walked the runway with their pets, dressed to demonstrate what they’re capable of!

This year, the designer who claimed the top dog spot was Rebecca Bissi of Chien Coature. Bissi, who I profiled several months back on Bark & Swagger, is a very talented artist and a big Bark & Swagger favorite!  Hers are very intricate designs with lots and lots of beading, and Rebecca’s always upping the ante for herself.

Her design that stole the show, was an ensemble for Gena and Jake Oddo of Texas, parents to beautiful snow Pomeranian, Sophia. One of my night’s top picks, the truly stunning “Sonny & Cher,” as the Oddo’s described it, featured 1000 plexiglass mirrors, 4000 argentium connector rings and 8000 crystals!

Winning ensemble of the night by designer Rebecca Bissi on Jake, Gena & Sophia Oddo

The outfits looked very Sonny and Cher, but they weren’t who inspired Bissi to create it.

“When I heard the theme of the show was the  60’s and 70’s, I immediately thought of Paco Rabanne, the clothing, jewelry and fragrance designer,” she shared.  “He did some costumes for women using paillettes that were wired together. So, I contacted  my glass company and asked them to cut circular, plexiglass mirrors in four different sizes and have four holes drilled in them. I used argentium sterling silver rings to hold the mirrors together, because they are high quality and won’t tarnish. I spent 2 weeks on Gena’s jumpsuit. Her  jumpsuit was made out of silk faille and is lined in silk charmeuse.

“The skirt on Sophia’s outfit is about a yard long and detaches from the harness. The mirrors are a smaller size and directly attached to the silk.”

Blood and a lost drill bit on the way to the runway…

Rebecca flew in from Racine, Wisconsin for the event. Working all of the previous night, she still had some tweaks to do. What she didn’t know is that it would involve some blood being shed.

“The morning I arrived, I needed to finish work on Jake’s vest,  but I had all of these extra mirrors with no holes in them,” Bissi explained. “So, I went to the hotel manager, and asked to borrow a drill. After assuring them I wouldn’t sue if I got hurt, I went to my room and started work.

“About an hour in, the drill slipped in my hand and went into my index finger. I was bleeding and couldn’t find the drill bit, so I was thinking maybe it was still inside my finger. I ran down to the front desk and the guy, seeing the blood,  insisted on calling 911.  I said ‘No! I have work to do!'”

Talk about a dedicated designer! LOL  “Turns out it wasn’t in my finger,” she said. “When I went back upstair, I found it!”  Bissi’s no-nonsense, get it done ethic to her work has helped her create some of the most intricate designs I’ve seen.

Gena Oddo, Rebecca Bissi, Sophia Oddo and Jake Oddo backstage before the show

After hearing that story, I was extra happy for her at garnering the Designer of the Year honors. What she went through to get her creations onto the runway! And, she had something really nice to say about what the award meant to her.

“It means a lot, because there were many talented designers there,” she shared, thoughtfully.  “There were many gowns I saw that I know a lot of work went into, and I appreciate that talent and design. This is a real honor that I will carry that in my heart.”

The night ended on a great note. The fashion-loving crowd was sated, the dogs happy to be relaxing, and the designers had captured the spotlight they deserved for their ingenuity, talent and hard work. I can’t wait for next year! A little birdie told me the theme is going to be a good one!

Get more info on the Mayor’s Alliance for NYC’s Animals

What do you think of dog fashion shows?

The little angel promoting her cookbook
photo courtesy of Darsey Mitchell

Millie LaRue isn’t just any dog. Hers is a world full of fancy outfits, runway shows and silver spoons. She’s a top supermodel of canine couture, with a Facebook fan club that’s swelled to over 8,000. And, the busy bee recently released a cookbook with mom, Darsey Mitchell, chock full of her friends’ recipes for humans and dogs from all over the world. Life for Millie LaRue has been good. But, when a sudden, life-threatening attack by a large dog created such a groundswell of love and support internationally (this reporter included), I felt compelled to talk to Darsey about how a little dog captured our hearts with her story of survival.

We all love love our dogs. But, to really understand Darsey’s connection to Millie, you have to know the story of Bella.

Bella’s Story

Darsey and her husband, Mark, had three Yorkies at the time, but Darsey wanted another, smaller one. While driving through Jacksonville, Florida, they saw an ad for puppies and decided to stop by. While the ad turned out to be from a backyard breeder, Darsey did fall in love with a tiny 8 week old puppy, who couldn’t have weighed more than a pound. They took her home and named her Bella.

“If I knew  then what I know now, I would’ve realized she was way too young and way too small to be sold,” Darsey shared.  “Within a day, we knew there was something wrong with her. She couldn’t keep warm, she wouldn’t eat or drink. I had to keep her wrapped in blankets.  I got a feeding tube from work and was giving her water with a syringe. We were calling the breeder back the next day, saying we need to bring the puppy back; that it was sick. They said no, no, she’s just adjusting to a new home. And, I was falling more and more in love with this puppy.”

Bella
photo courtesy of Darsey Mitchell

Their vet was very uncomfortable with the whole thing and, generally, didn’t like the idea of dogs being bred to be very tiny. He couldn’t find anything technically wrong with Bella, but the symptoms persisted.

After a month and $3,000 worth of vet bills, Bella died of a heart attack, right in front of Mark. He tried reviving her with CPR, to no avail.

“I was devastated,” Darsey conveyed, getting emotional on the phone. “You would’ve thought I’d had her for ten years. I never put her down; I was always caring for her and I felt like I’d failed her!”

They never found out what was wrong with Bella. They thought it might’ve been genetic.

The Puppy in the Playpen

“I swore to never get another dog,” Mitchell confided. “My husband kept trying to get me another puppy. He would start looking at reputable breeders online and I would tell him, ‘ Don’t waste your time!'”

Mark found a breeder in Atlanta with three girl puppies, which he stopped off to see on the way home from a business trip. “They’re really cute; they’re fat little puppies,” he described by phone from the breeder’s house. “And, she doesn’t sell them until they’re 4 months old! I’m sending you some pictures.”

Despite her protests, Darsey looked at the pictures and immediately fell for one of the three.  Mark convinced her to take the five hour drive back to Atlanta with him the next day. Talk about a devoted husband! 🙂 Darsey reluctantly agreed. “OK, we can look, but I’m not going to get one,” she warned him. But, Mark knows his wife. They walked in the door and saw those three, healthy-looking, cute little girls in a playpen.

“I recognized the one I’d liked from the others right away, and I reached down into that playpen, picked her up and started crying,” Darsey said.  “I was so embarrassed; I didn’t know why I had done that. I put my face down into her fur and I couldn’t stop. This is the one that I want, I told Mark.  And, that was Millie.

“I love them all, but Millie just came at a time when I really needed her. This was 8 years ago, and I still cry over Bella. I have that little puppy’s picture in the house and whenever I travel anywhere with Millie, I still have a picture of Bella on the nightstand of the hotel room. I always say to Millie, ‘If it weren’t for Bella, I would never have you!’

I’ve had a lot of dogs in my life, but no matter how many more I’ll have, I’ll never find another Millie.”

The fierce little girl who stole Darsey’s heart
photo courtesy of Darsey Mitchell

The Accident

So, now you understand how deeply connected to Millie Darsey is. It was last Christmas Eve. Families in the Hilton Head community where Darsey and her husband, Mark,  live with their five Yorkies, were sitting down to a nice holiday meal. The Mitchells had friends who’d just arrived from Belgium, and were also preparing to go out to dinner. Mark called up to Darsey that he was taking the pups out for a final walk before they left.

Mark and Darsey had always gotten along well with their next door neighbors. Visitors in for the holiday were making a ruckus around the pool and this excited the dogs who, in true terrier form, started barking their warning of Stranger Danger!  They would’ve settled down, but the neighbors’ guests entered into a game of taunting the little dogs with barks and growls. As the Yorkies barking increased, the neighbor’s dog and a visiting dog also started barking and Mark called over for them to stop the teasing as it was upsetting the dogs.

And, then it happened. In a shot, the neighbor’s visiting dog came tearing through the bushes, hyped up and looking for prey. Addie, one of Millie’s siblings, narrowly got away. With all of the ruckus, brave little 5 lb Millie came running over, maybe to try to attack the dog, maybe to protect Mark or her sibling; we’ll never know. Focused on the first dog, Millie never saw the second dog coming. She barreled through the bushes and snatch Millie up. Millie didn’t have a chance.  As she was being shaken vigorously by the large dog, Mark and the neighbors, who had run into the Mitchell’s yard, started hitting and yelling for the dog to drop Millie. But, she wouldn’t. In a move that could’ve saved Millie’s life, the neighbor thought to grab the dog’s collar, pull her head back to stop the shaking, and Mark pulled Millie from it’s jaws.

Eyes glazed over and bleeding profusely, Millie was gravely injured. Darsey, an intensive care nurse for newborns, took Millie, wrapped her in a blanket and put pressure on her mid section to try and contain the bleeding.  They rushed her to their vet, Dr. Curt Hennessey’s home a few doors down, thinking he might need to do surgery right there on the kitchen counter! After inspecting Millie’s injuries under the headlights of their car (her intestinal wall was ruptured and her intestines had ruptured out), he instructed them to race her to the hospital and he would immediately follow.

Millie, just days after the attack
Photo courtesy of Darsey Mitchell

“People would say to me what would you do if that something bad ever happened to Millie, and I thought I would be hysterical,” explained Darsey. “But I wasn’t. I was crying a bit, but I really just kept talking to her the whole time. I was so scared because I was thinking she’s going to die right here! So, I kept saying, Millie, please don’t leave me, please don’t leave me. I must’ve said that a thousand times.”

Once they took Millie from her at the hospital, Darsey finally broke  down.  Without a 24 hour facility on Hilton Head Island, their vet wanted to send Millie to Savannah to the 24-hour hospital there. For Darsey, she’d have taken Millie to the moon, if necessary. But, their on staff vet was on Christmas vacation, so the local vet performed the needed surgery to close Millie up, and Darsey, with her nursing training, took Millie home to care for her.

Going into Shock

In the first 24-48 hours, going into shock is a major concern. In explaining some of the things she was doing to watch out for this, I thought Darsey shared valuable information for us all. Here’s what she did:

* Darsey took Millie’s temperature constantly; they will get colder in shock initially, she told me, not spike a fever. When in decline, the body gets so weak, they can’t keep their temperature up.

* She’d check her gums for a healthy color. When there’s internal bleeding, the gums look pale.

* She’d check for swelling and bleeding around her bandages; any soft and mushy spots and hot spots, where blood would be pooling.

Millie, wearing her body bandage, recuperating
Photo courtesy of Darsey Mitchell

“For her general care, I’d try to imagine if it was me, how would I want it done; what would I want someone to do for me, so I was most comfortable,” Darsey shared. Such a great mom!

Mitchell put Millie on Pedialyte (the plain Pedialyte, NOT the diet one with Xylitol, which is toxic to dogs).

On Day 2, Millie tried to get up and take a few steps. But, she was still very much in danger.

Day by day, Millie improved. She had a setback or two, but miraculously, always pulled through.

“When a little 5 lb. dog is attacked by a big dog, they just don’t ever make it,” Darsey relayed from Dr. Hennessey. “They usually don’t. This doesn’t happen; Millie is like our poster dog, he said, because it just doesn’t ever end like this; it has a tragic ending. The fact that nothing major really happened, he still can’t believe it. You can see on the X-rays where the dog’s teeth went in and they barely missed the lungs, they barely missed her heart, it ripped the intestinal wall and her intestines ruptured out, but it missed puncturing her intestines. If it had hit any of those things, we’d have never even made it to the vet.”

The little face that could move mountains. The girl loves to pose and have her pic taken!
photo courtesy of Darsey Mitchell

Igniting a storm of love, support & useful information…

I received my first Facebook post about the accident from Jan Ingram, a dear friend of Darsey’s, who’d spoken with her shortly after and offered to let Millie’s friends know what’d happened, and keep them up to date on her condition. She created a Facebook page called Prayers and Updates for Millie LaRue. I didn’t know Darsey or Millie very well. I’d met them at the New York Pet Fashion Show and emailed with Darsey a few times. But, it was Millie’s face in that first photo, describing the accident, that just grabbed at my heart and wouldn’t let go. I was shocked like many to learn about it, and felt compelled to comment with my own show of support for them. And, I ended up following Millie’s journey everyday.

I saw tips come through from many, many people of things they’d found that worked really well for their dogs when they were sick. Two of them – coconut water and Arnica ointment – became helpful staples of Millie’s post-op treatment.

That first post got a handful of Likes. Within days, hundreds of people from around the world were tuning in daily to Jan’s updates on Millie, and over a thousand to Millie’s own fan club page updates. Darsey told me she was so overwhelmed by the response and concern, she felt obliged to post a picture each day, so people would see Millie was doing ok.

“I was stunned,” marveled Darsey. “The number of people and emails, private messages and comments; shared on hundreds and hundreds of pages…there was no way I could get to all of the pages and news about Millie that was shared.

“I wrote it a million times on my page; our whole family will never be able to say thank you enough to all of you. In a lifetime, we can not say how much this has meant to us. And, it really did help me get through those first horrible days, just reading through the emails and comments.”

Six Weeks Later: How is Millie doing now?

“She is doing really, really good!,” enthused Mitchell. “One last staple was just removed, a little spot that didn’t heal up just right, at first. Most of the damage was internal that I can’t see which, as a nurse, drives me crazy because I want to see everything! And, Millie is still sleeping a lot. But, the vet says that’s normal with this type of trauma.”

I asked if Millie was exhibiting any emotional scarring from the ordeal.

“I haven’t really taken her out anywhere, but I have been taking her into the yard on the other side of the house to get fresh air and do her business,” Darsey explained. “The other day was really pretty, and I wanted to take the dogs out to get some sun. Millie was standing on the pool deck and she walked over to the edge on the same side where the accident occurred. She stood right at the edge. I was just watching her to see what she’d do. That used to be her favorite spot to go potty, and I knew she needed to go. She just stood there and looked right over into their yard, and then she looked back at me. I told her it was ok; that she could go over there. And, she just stood, looked back over at that house, and then turned around and walked back to me. She wouldn’t go over there, like she knew it was dangerous.”

I asked what had been learned from this ordeal, and what Darsey said spoke volumes about the connection Millie has made with so many.

“People will make jokes about your Facebook friends or fake friends,” Mitchell explained, as tears welled up.  “I have realized how much these people came to mean to me, during a time when I really needed emotional support. Just to know someone was there and cared enough about a little dog that was so important to me. And, these are people that don’t even really know me. People from everywhere, all over the world. I can’t explain how overwhelmed I was. When I finally went back to work, people there were saying, ‘Where did Millie get so many friends?’ They said that if something happened to them and they got sick, there wouldn’t be 20 people who’d comment on their page!

What I came away with is this: they’re not fake Facebook friends, at all. They’re just friends you don’t see. Those friends I’ve never seen before, I would read comments they wrote and it meant as much to me as if my closest and dearest friends had said them. There was someone on there saying, ‘I’m supposed to be going away on vacation tomorrow, and I can’t leave until I know Millie’s ok. Please write me back and tell me she’s ok.'”

As we were wrapping up the interview, Darsey told me this funny story:

“Over the course of four or five days, we had several people send flower arrangements to the house. On the  last day, my husband answered the door, and it was the same delivery guy as every other day.  The guy said, ‘I have more flowers for you; I hope everything’s ok!’ And, Mark said, ‘Oh yeah, my wife’s little dog had an accident; the dog next door attacked her.’ And the man said, ‘Oh my God, your wife was attacked by a dog?!’ And Mark said, ‘No! My wife wasn’t attacked; our little dog was attacked!’ And this delivery man said, ‘These flowers have been for a dog?! Never in my life have I seen something like this!’

“And Mark said, ‘Well, you need to meet Millie. She’s not just any dog.'”

Darsey & Millie in matching gowns created by
Rebecca Bissi of Chien Coature, at the
2014 New York Pet Fashion Show
photo courtesy of Rachel Bloom

And that, my friends, says it all. Thousands of us are happy today that little Millie LaRue is recovering very nicely at home with her Yorkie siblings Elvis, Katie, Addie Mae and Tulip. She’ll be back on the doggy social scene soon. What she’s never left is our hearts.

The Family, top l to r:
Addie Mae, Millie LaRue, Tulip Cherie; bottom l to r: Elvis and Katie Scarlett
photo courtesy of Darsey Mitchell

You can buy Millie and Darsey’s cookbook, Cooking With Friends, here. For a limited time, they’re including a beautiful tea towel embroidered with a red heart to symbolize the outpouring of love for Millie and the love we all feel for our cherished pets. Perfect for Valentine’s Day!

photo courtesy of Darsey Mitchell

To follow Millie LaRue, go to her Millie LaRue Fan Club.

Do you have a story about a trauma your pet has been through? 

Marie Antoinette Dress
Replica by Roni Penberthy

It was a sight to behold! Hundreds of dog fashion lovers and their four-legged friends descended upon the 18th floor of the Hotel Pennsylvania Friday night to showcase pet fashion, rescue dogs and to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the New York Pet Fashion Show. With this year’s theme The Crown Jewels of Fashion and Rescue, participants arrived in dazzling displays of royal regalia and designers crafted stunning creations harkening back to the Victorian era. Ornamentation, a key aspect to Victorian dress, ruled, with crystal and gem-encrusted treasures rocking the runway. It is the perfect event to kick off Westminster and New York Fashion Week, bringing together the fabulous fashion and the animals we love so much! There was a lot to take in, it was truly a feast of the senses, and I’ll do my best to give you a good idea of what the experience was like.

Karen Sanabria w/Chai Latte, both in
Ana Nieves’ design

The New York Pet Fashion Show wouldn’t be the extravaganza it’s become and have the meaning it does without its two visionaries – Oehler Media’s Gregg Oehler and uber pet fashion designer, event co-chair and Creative Director, Ada Nieves. And while stunning pet fashion is a key element, also at its core is the mission to bring attention to the millions of homeless dogs and cats in shelters around the country and to encourage people to adopt. The night is dedicated, since 2012, to Gregg’s father, Milton E. Oehler, who passed away during the ’12 event and inspired, through his support of Gregg and Ada’s mission to help abandoned animals, the level of passion they share in doing this.

“This started ten years ago as a little fashion event a woman asked us to do,” Oehler explains. “Now, it has grown into this wonderful night where showcasing talented dog fashion designers brings attention to animal rescue and adoption.”

This year, they kicked that mission up several notches, partnering with the Mayor’s Alliance for NYC Animals, which has, under its umbrella, 150 rescue organizations and shelters across the 5  boroughs and beyond. Many of the models of the furry kind were rescues up for adoption from 10 of the affiliated shelters, and with the plethora of media that showed up to cover the event, I’m happy to say those dogs should get a good amount of attention.

Backstage Before the Show

Last year, I exhibited at the New York Pet Fashion Show for Couture by Sophie, and Sophie and I walked in one of the runway shows. So I knew this year I’d want to get the flavor of backstage to share with you, because that’s where the behind-the-scenes action takes place. And who doesn’t love to go backstage! Here are the highlights:

PopImpressKA’s Olga Papkovitch; Gina Agnello w/Pink Dog Frankie Boy & Brooke Earnest

One of the first model teams I approached was Karen Sanabria and her adorable Chihuahua Chai Latte, who has a favorite “pose” of lying with her manicured front paws crossed. Sitting atop her head was a lovely little crystal crown, but it was Chai Latte’s gown, designed by Ada Nieves, which was a marvel. Called “The Papillon Dress” (papillon means “butterfly” in French), Ada created a complete hand-painted scene on the train, including a likeness of Chai Latte, greenery and butterflies.  A couple of them were mechanical ones that flapped their wings continuously, like graceful little works of art. It was amazing! Karen’s dress, also designed and hand-painted by Nieves, matched her dog’s in theme. Ada chose the Papillon as a muse because it was Marie Antoinette’s favorite dog and the dress is dedicated to her.

Next, out of the corner of my eye, I saw a bright pink dog! Had to go investigate. Turns out, the pup is named Pink Dog Frankie Boy and he’s an adorable Maltese that his owner, Gina Agnello, dyed with beet juice. It’s all natural and won’t hurt Frankie, but it also won’t come out until Frankie’s hair grows! Frankie was the model and canine representative of a new and very interesting New York City-based brand called PopImpressKA. It stands for Popular Impressive Kaleidoscope. They make dog carry bags and dresses based on company founder and owner, Olga Papkovitch‘s, own paintings. Olga and Brooke Earnest were modeling chiffon silk gowns from the collection. Olga explained a little about the designs, “They feature a quilt of my paintings of animals, flowers and birds, everything that is dwindling but should be celebrated on our planet,”  she emphasizes. Frankie was being toted in one of the matching carry bags, made from canvas with an eye towards being green.  They looked very fresh, stylish and cool. I really liked this company.

Designer Mario Laliberte, partner Colin & official crown designer Roni Goldberg w/Honey

It wasn’t hard to keep getting distracted with all of the dazzling costumes, so next my eye was drawn to two women, dressed in lavish Victorian royal wear, with decked out cutie pie pups in their arms, all wearing brilliant crowns and jewels. I found out that one of the women, Roni Goldberg of Roni Goldberg Designs, is the official crown designer of the 2014 event. Her dog, Honey, had atop her head a serious crown made of 1400 crystals, some of which were from the exclusive Swarovski Elements® collection, and designed by Giorgio Armani. It was substantial enough to be considered one of the Crown Jewels of the night. Roni’s creation was featured at the end of the show, where the unique aspects of it were revealed to the audience. She gave us the sneak peek. 🙂

I saw an adorable little Pomeranian, dressed in a baby blue and gold costume, perched on a red velvet throne. His name was Lelo and he’s a rescue up for adoption. Lelo is 6 years old and was very gentle and sweet. Bobbi Giordano, founder of Bobbi and the Strays rescue, rehabilitation, adoption and education organization, had rescued him. Bobbi is amazing. She has two facilities, in Freeport, Long Island and Glendale, Queens, and houses about 300 rescues at the moment. She has a heart of gold and manages to care for the dogs through the generosity of people like us. You can donate to Bobbi and the Strays here. Lelo walked in one of the runway shows in that outfit, which was called Prince Charming, and designed by Julie Lancaster of Off the Cuff Stuff For Pets.

Just before heading back out to the stage to cover the start of the runway shows, I saw celebrated dog fashion designer, Anthony Rubio. He was cradling his two celeb Chihuahuas, Bogie and Kimba. I asked him how he got these two babies I see him with at all the events. “A while after Bandit (his original Chihuahua) passed, a breeder got in touch with me and said she wanted to give me another Chihuahua because she thought I needed a baby to love,” Rubio shared. “She brought over one of the boys and then said ‘watch the brother for me for just for a couple of days.’ Two days later, I told her I couldn’t take either of them because they were inseparable. She said ‘I want you to have them both.’ And here we are. They were on Broadway at 5 months and they’re now 2.”

Anthony Rubio w/Bogie & Kimba; unidentified guest; Roseanne Bolasny &
Bella Mia in Rubio design

The Runway

I spoke with Ada about the night’s theme – why this era, and why there was such an emphasis on Marie Antoinette with the designs. “We wanted to celebrate the Age of Enlightenment, during the 17th and 18 centuries,” Nieves explains. “During that period, society was being reformed, away from tradition and toward advanced knowledge. Marie Antoinette was an intricate part of creating that environment, because she brought art and science to the French kingdom. We were inspired to translate that into pet fashion, and do something new and royal.”

The excitement was building for the runway shows to begin! There were four of them, each with a title apropos of the night’s theme: Gems of Rescue on the Runway, Age of Enlightenment – Fusion of Fashion & Technology, Treasures of the King – Favorites of the Royal Family and Crown Jewels of Fashion – The Royalty Fashion Contest.

Every model in the Gems of Rescue show was an adoptable rescue from 10 different organizations under the Mayor’s Alliance umbrella. Each rescue and their walker represented a particular gemstone, the color of which the designers used in creating their outfits. The idea was that all of the gemstones together, just like all of the rescue dogs,  make up the Crown Jewels or, in this case, the Crown Jewels of Rescue. I loved that!

Here are some of the highlights of the runway shows for me:

*  a stunning blue and cream replica of an original Marie Antoinette gown, handmade in robin’s egg damask with organza lining by designer, Roni Penberthy, shown above.

Jill Rappaport arriving
with one of her two
dachshunds

* NBC pet correspondent and tireless animal rescue advocate, Jill Rappaport, walked Zeus, a very cute maltese from the Metropolitan Maltese Rescue Group. Zeus wore a dazzling bright red gown designed by Cheryl Keninger of Down Under Dog Designs.

* Rebecca Bissi of Chien Coature, one of my favorite designers, hand made a stunning and very intricate royal blue gown worn by dog Millie LaRue in the Royal Contest. Millie’s mom wore a matching dress made for her by Rebecca, too. A photo of this dog design is shown as the featured image of this post on the Home page.

The Age of Enlightenment show was a celebration of the new, like the era itself.  It manifested in a fusion of LED lights with textile surfaces. Many of the  fashions displayed had lights elaborately and strategically placed on the garments and many of the garments were created from cruelty-free materials like vinyls. The fashions were inspiring. Some I really liked were:

* an Ada creation called “The Dauphine of France,” named after Marie Antoinette’s own title, worn by Chihuahua Aspen and walked by owner Terry St. Angelo. The garment was made from recycled plastic adorned with crystals in a dotted and a geometric pattern. When you remove the train, the garment becomes a royal raincoat that can be worn during the day. The LED lit crown Aspen wore was designed by Gladys Delgado Garced of Doggone Couture. Very creative!

Debbie Nap w/Guenevere, both in
Ada Nieves

* another Ada design adorned Queen Guenevere, walked by Debbie Nap. The creation is called “Macaroon,” and features bright and soft pinks and golds and textures inspired by techno fashion or manmade, cruelty-free fashion. Queen Guenevere’s gown was gorgeous. It was embellished with LED lights around the border and, in the middle of the train of the dress, Ada had hand-painted a likeness of Guenevere, surrounded by four little dog heads. A giant fuchsia butterfly hovered to one side. Debbie’s matching gown was vibrant and very dazzly.

* Severine Vicknair of Pink Punk Puppy Designs, created tangerine stunners, for both model Priscilla Massuli and her little Isabella, and they were definite show stand-outs and one of the evening’s five finalist designs.

* Brooke Earnest walked little Pink Dog Frankie Boy down the runway in her PopImpressKA gown. Frankie wore his own fabu creation, by Ada Nieves, called “The Dauphin of France” (the masculine version of dauphine), which was a cruelty-free vinyl, a techno fabric which Ada calls “the science of fashion.”

* celebrity Chihuahua Eli and mom Karen of the tv show “Doggie Moms,” walked with Joseph, who carried some Yappy Hour Vineyards refreshment for Eli so he wouldn’t get parched on the runway.  Eli sported a very cool vest with multi-colored LED lights designed by Gladys Delgado Garced.

* an Anthony Rubio-designed crystal-encrusted sparkler in black and white, worn by Bella Mia, who was walked by owner Roseanne Bolasny.

The Awards Presentation

Between the runway shows, NYPFS presented awards to some deserving advocates for animals. Jill Rappaport received the Humanitarian Award for her tireless work on behalf of rescues. During her acceptance speech, she unveiled a new program she’s created called “Best in Shelters,” whereby she’ll be traveling the country visiting rescue facilities and highlighting the hardest to adopt dogs. Dogs missing limbs, blind or deaf dogs,  black dogs or pit bulls; the attention she’ll be able to bring to these animals will be a godsend and go a long way toward getting them adopted. I’m going to do a separate piece on Jill and “Best In Shelters”, so look out for that in the near future.

Prince Lorenzo Borghese,
Animal AID USA

Prince Lorenzo Borghese of “The Bachelor“ fame and his partner, Karen Talbot, who co-founded Animal AID USA, received the Ambassador of Rescue Award. Animal AID USA, comprised completely of volunteers dedicated to helping animals, has done enormous work.  Each month they drive over 1,600 miles, at their own expense, in order to relocate animals from high-kill shelters to receiving rescues and homes. Through lobbying efforts and petitions, they focus on ending animal cruelty, especially banning inhumane ways animals are euthanized and the abolishment of puppy mills.

And in a first this year, NYPFS presented an award to the Rescue Dog of the Year and for the Forever Home Award, which goes to the rescue’s parents and the shelter the pup was adopted from. The winners receive thousands of dollars in pet gifts and prizes. Cocker Spaniel Shotsie, owned by Brian and Lisa Orsini took home the prize. Why was Shotsie chosen? After only 3 days with the Orsini’s, Shotsie, at night and despite being blind, started  barking incessantly, alerting them that their infant daughter was lying, face down, choking in her own vomit. Shotski saved their daughter’s life. “It’s incredible the sixth sense dog’s have to know when something is wrong,” Gregg Oehler marveled. I met Shotsie and Lisa in the elevator going up to the event. I didn’t realize she was about to be honored as Rescue Dog of the Year. Shotsie was nervous in her mom’s arms because she was in a strange place and can’t see. What a brave girl! The Forever Home Award went to the Orsini’s and to Abandoned Angels Cocker Spaniel Rescue in Bayside, Queens. The Rescue Dog of the Year and Forever Home awards will now be an annual award category.

At the end of the evening, the award for crowning King or Queen, the Royalty Costume contest and the New York Pet Fashion Show Designer of the Year were given out. Anthony Rubio took top honors as the Designer of the Year; his pink floral and crystal confection, worn by Bella Mia, took the Royalty Costume prize and little Bella Mia was crowned the Queen of the evening! She must be a good luck charm because it was her second year in a row as the winning dog!

Maddy Saia’s
Diamonds in the Ruff Ruff

The Exhibitors

There were some cool designers and products exhibited at this year’s show. Maddy Saia of Diamonds in the Ruff Ruff is best known for her gorgeous and very luxurious pet beds, but she designs clothing, too. She displayed samples of two of her beds and a very cute silver lambskin coat, among other fashions. A woman with a neon pink poofy wig, bejeweled wedding dress, complete with a long train (difficult fashion choice at a very crowded event), came up to Maddy’s table, put her teacup Chihuahua onto one of the canopied beds and started taking pictures.  Who could blame her? They’re pretty awesome!

One of my fave raves and a sponsor of the show this year was Dog Fashion Spa, the luxury dog grooming products brand. The dfs family was out in full force and I got to meet Elena Volnova and Domenico Ponti, co-owners of the company, and Andre Ponti in person for the first time. Elena and Andre both walked in one of the runway shows; Elena and little Pronto in matching plush cotton Dog Fashion Spa robes. So cute! I was envious that Elena was in a comfy robe, while my feet were killing me in cute suede and studded booties! Haha…

Also represented last night was the wonderful pet industry group I am a member of called Women in the Pet Industry Network (WIPIN). Founder/president Shawna Schuh flew in from Washington State for the festivities, as did a number of WIPIN members from all over the country. It was great getting to meet these inspiring women I had only been emailing with until now.

Priscilla Massuli w/Isabella, both wearing
Severine Vicknair

The night finished with a check presentation to the Mayor’s Alliance for NYC Animals from Pupscouts, a social organization that is like the Boy or Girl Scouts, but for pups and their parents. They raised $1,365 on their own for the Mayor’s Alliance. Stephanie Mattera, its spokesperson, enthused that the money will be able to help support more than 50 rescues. Fantastic!

In Summary

It was a wonderful evening and for such a good cause. Gregg and Ada and their team truly outdid themselves! I’ll be doing a follow up report on how much money was raised in total for the Mayor’s Alliance for NYC Animals, so stay tuned.

I think Ada summed up the magic of the night. “I am very happy that our community can get together and support an event like this to help animals in need,” she emphasized. “The money we raise allows these rescue groups to continue what they’re doing, and shows the power we have as a community and, more important, shows the power of the animals. We become their voice and make others pay attention. The rescues are our royals. We have to help them.”

And like the fashion aficionado she so is, Ada even wore techno fashion on her nails that night. Her mood polish turned colors, depending on her body temperature; blue when it was cool and white when it was hot. I asked her, “So what color were your nails at the end of the night?” She laughed and said, “I was exhausted and sweating like crazy. Of course they were white!”

Lulu w/rescue in Emerald, wearing
Janice Craig of
Belle Diva Couture

Until next time…

(Disclosure: I am an affiliate of Dog Fashion Spa. If you choose to purchase something from them through this article, I will get a small commission, which goes towards keeping Bark and Swagger running, and towards the animal

advocacy organizations I regularly donate to. Thanks for helping!)