New York Fashion Week saw an unconventional lineup as adoptable puppies from the Animal Haven rescue center took to the runway. The third annual "Dog-Slash-Fashion-Show," organized by designers Rachel Antonoff and Susan Korn, took place at Webster Hall in Manhattan's East Village.
The event featured dogs, including puppies like Birdy, Charlotte, and Biscotti, paired with notable New Yorkers such as comedian Susie Essman and actress Victoria Pedretti. The show aimed to encourage attendees to consider adopting pets in need of homes.
"We want you to love our designs, obviously, but also, please fall in love with a dog, or any abandoned pet, that might need you!" Antonoff stated after the show. Celebrities including Natasha Lyonne and B.J. Novak were in attendance.
Susan Korn, known for her Susan Alexandra line of beaded accessories, created custom leashes and collars for the show, reportedly using 200,000 beads. Antonoff's collection included dresses and coats printed with designs inspired by vintage newspaper classified ads and memorable moments from "Sex and the City."
The designers' own pets, dubbed "nepo-dogs," Lafitte Antonoff and Pigeon Korn, closed the show. According to the organizers, several adoption applications have already been submitted for the participating dogs, including a chihuahua named Appletini.
Last year, 100% of the dogs featured in the show were adopted, including a terrier named Gilbert who was adopted by model Karen Elson. This year, adoption fees for the runway dogs have been waived, and each adopted pet will receive a complimentary bottle of pet shampoo from the brand Ouai.
Both designers reported significant interest in the dogs during and after the event, with potential adopters reaching out via text and phone.