Elysian Impact held its second annual Catwalk Furbaby fashion show featuring over 20 models paired with dogs wearing designer brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Nicole Miller. The event aimed to raise funds for non-profit organizations supporting animal welfare. Participants like EyeWitness News reporter Kristin Thorne walked the runway with rescue dogs in stylish outfits designed by Lev-I-Rosa. Thorne found it challenging to connect with her pooch partner, Chester, from the Animal Advocates of Barnwell County, in just a few minutes before the show, but she focused on raising awareness for animal welfare.
Organizations such as New York City Second Chance Rescue selected enthusiastic and spotlight-loving dogs to model in the show, like Cattle dog mix Eunice and Donna Summer, a Great Pyrenees mix. These furry fashionistas confidently strutted their stuff without any prior practice, showcasing their star quality and big personalities on the stage. Attendees were encouraged to donate towards their favorite pairs to cast their votes, with the hope of raising awareness for rescue dogs looking for their forever homes.
The show emphasized the need for animal adoption, with dogs like Donna Summer still seeking a loving home despite mesmerizing the audience on the runway. Donna, a rescued pregnant dog who delivered 11 puppies, was a stand-out model alongside Eunice, who had been hit by a car before her rescue and was later adopted by an audience member. The show focused not just on fashion but also on the heartwarming stories of these rescue dogs and the importance of animal welfare in our communities.
Celebrity judges like Pedro Alberto and Maribel Liberman applauded the human-animal connection showcased on the runway, emphasizing that the bond between the owner and the dog was more important than the outfits they wore. Many attendees were excited to see the stylish ensembles the dogs would flaunt, alongside the loving interactions between the owners and their furry companions. The event was a mix of fashion, philanthropy, and admiration for rescue animals, with judges like Fern Mallis and Jean Shafiroff sharing their love for pets and the joy they bring into their lives.
Fern Mallis, the emcee of the event, highlighted the importance of raising funds for animal welfare causes through fashion and modeling while also acknowledging the unconditional love that pets bring into our lives. Participants like Jean Shafiroff and her rescue dog Rosita impressed the audience with their elegance and poise on the runway, despite initial nervousness. The stylish outfits, designed by Fashion Institute of Technology graduate Ashley Plasse, added a touch of glamour to the heartwarming show. The event was not just about fashion but also about celebrating the unique bond between humans and animals and supporting the important causes of animal welfare organizations.
In summary, the Catwalk Furbaby fashion show brought together models, designers, rescue animals, and charities to raise awareness and funds for animal welfare organizations. The event showcased the talent of rescue dogs, the bond between humans and animals, and the heartwarming stories behind each pooch on the runway. It emphasized the importance of adoption, community support, and raising awareness for animal welfare causes through fashion and philanthropy. The successful event celebrated the spirit of giving, the love for pets, and the joy that rescue animals bring into our lives, leaving a lasting impact on all attendees and participants alike.
