The 38th Fur Ball was hosted by the San Diego Humane Society on Oct. 5 at the San Diego Humane Society’s San Diego Campus, honoring Richard and Sharon Bockoff. Guests arrived ‘dressed to the nines’ with their canine companions. More dogs were attending the event with their owners this year than ever before. The theme for the evening was “The Cat’s Meow!” marking the first time cats were the stars of the show. Coco and Amore Schwab graced the invitation this year, thanks to their “cat mom” Norma Schwab who won last year’s bid.

To further enhance the Fur Ball experience, canine services were provided for the guests. These included a doggie valet, giving the pups a much-needed walk while their owners enjoyed the festivities. Additionally, a canine concierge service was available, with volunteers circulating the event to provide pet blankets, water, and baggies for their furry friends.

President and CEO Dr. Gary Weitzman welcomed the audience and Megan Parry from ABC 10News served as mistress of ceremonies for the evening. The guests enjoyed a delicious vegetarian dinner Jeffrey Strauss of Pamplemousse Grille prepared. Auctioneer Mark Drilling helped raise an astounding $1.7 million during the event. The perfect evening concluded with music from Haute Chile.

With the shelter currently facing overcapacity, there are many dogs in need of adoption. Everyone was encouraged to consider adopting a pet. For more information, visit the San Diego Humane Society or visit https://www.sdhumane.org/adopt/.

FALL RUNWAY SHOW

The 17th San Diego Fashion Week showcased its Fall Runway Show on Oct. 5 at the ANDAZ Hotel. Director Gwen Bates stated that this show is a platform for both emerging designers and established brands to present their collections on the runway. The featured designer this year was Caroline Williard Couture. Additional designers showcasing their work on the runway were Angel Tan, Sarra’s Petals, Grisham Manor, GFash, MSTR STAG, Lady Lane, Insufficient Fun, and Lina Dweik.

This two-day extravaganza included a trunk show and awards on Sunday, Oct. 6, which was held on the rooftop of the ANDAZ Hotel. Bites and sips were provided by STK Steakhouse. The top designer awards were presented to first place MSTR STAG; second Lina Dweik; and third Grisham Manor and Sarra’s Petals. Awards for the top models went to first place Ariana Angel; second Nalani Coleman and Alex Folas; and third Micah Queja and Madison Vice.

Fashion Week San Diego (FWSD) holds additional events throughout the year. Stay tuned at www.fashionweekSD.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Saturday, Nov. 2 – RAZKAL Market & Fashion Show at Queen Bee’s Art and Cultural Center from 1-7 p.m. https://bit.ly/4f8FpUc.

Sunday, Nov. 10 – Sip and Style at Novo Brazil Brewing Mission Valley from 1-4 p.m. Each ticket includes a bag filled with fashion and a drink of your choice. https://bit.ly/4eandJ7.

Monday, Dec. 2 – BIMS Week Fashion Show (Black in Marine Science) at Paradise Point Resort & Spa from 6-8 p.m. Showcasing sustainable fashion, swimwear, and dive/snorkel gear. https://bit.ly/48be7u5.

Friday, Dec. 6 – Winter Wonderland Fashion Show & Luncheon at the US Grant Hotel. Leonard Simpson will present the runway show. arc-sd.com/winterwonderland/.

Saturday, Dec. 14 – Kenneth Barlis Fashion Show (Made in the Philippines) from 3-8 p.m. at the Port Pavilion. Formal attire only. https://bit.ly/4h9XN0P.

Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned Couture Milliner based in the Southern California area. Learn more about our hat designer, teacher, and podcaster at dianacavagnaro.com.