Lauren Wilson, junior fashion merchandising and design major, participated in the 2019 Project Puppy Gala as a designer. The event is a unique fashion show for rescue dogs.
Wilson and Caroline, the ten-year old rescue pup, came in first place this year.
It’s a bird… it’s a plane, it’s a dog!
The designers had to create a look that aligned with the theme for the gala: superheroes.
Wilson designed for a dog the same way she would design for a person; she took the time to get to know Caroline before crafting an outfit.
“A designer’s greatest tool is empathy,” said Wilson. “If you can’t understand someone, you can’t design for them.”
Wilson created a “super senior” look for Caroline since the pup is considered elderly and faces some health issues.
The finished ensemble included a mask, paw cuffs, bloomers and a gold dog bone. Wilson drew inspiration from the classic look of superheroes like Superman.
All dogs who walked the runway, including Caroline, were adopted after the show.
A passion for fashion
One of Wilson’s favorite parts of fashion is the fact that it brings together many of her interests.
“It brings in a lot of different things—writing, fashion, psychology, business,” Wilson said.
With a double emphasis in fashion design and product development as well as merchandising and management, her experience learning and designing at MSU has been nothing short of amazing.
“I never imagined I would have such a personal connection at a state college,” said Wilson. “It’s a small program, and I’m able to make personal connections.”
About Project Puppy
The Project Puppy Gala is an annual event that benefits the Killuminati Foundation. The 2019 gala included the fashion show as well as silent and live auctions.
The Killuminati Foundation is a non-profit organization that offers financial vet assistance for non-routine vet care. They also promote adoption and work with the community to educate on the importance of animal welfare, proper vet care, training needs and more.
The dog fashion show featured locally rescued dogs. Each dog walks the runway in custom designed outfits by MSU merchandising and fashion design students.
