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IN celebration of the launch of Barque, a runway fashion show starring the trendiest Chicago dogs wearing the new haute couture designs by Gay Roberts, was held in July at Top Dog Productions, a full-service doggy daycare. There was no admission fee to attend, and Chicago Sun-Times columnist Bill Zwecker served as the event's master of ceremonies (MC). "Barque's designs are unique, and for every special occasion," said owner Roberts, who designs the one-of-a-kind hand-knit sweaters for both boy and girl pups. "I'm happy for Barque to be partnering with Top Dog, and excited to share the brand with Chicago's chic-est pups and their stylish owners." Gold Coast Fashionista and dog lover, Roberts began knitting luxury sweaters for her teacup Yorkie, Fergie, and quickly gained the attention of neighboring dog owners. Roberts, a former New York couture model and sportswear designer took the entrepreneurial skills gained from her former floral business and corporate sales experience, and made her fashion and dog passions a reality with the launch of Barque. The Barque collection included hip, cutting-edge designs as well as classic looks for any puppy outing. One of Roberts' favorite designs was a black leather or denim motorcycle jacket with a zip pocket and "Hope and Glory" wings, available with or without a furry collar. Another posh design was the chic black velvet top coat adorned with diamonds and a matching jeweled lead. More casual and very cool looks were stone-washed denim harnesses and jackets and dresses in vintage fabrics. Many of these unique designs were worn by local pups on the runway, including Barque supermodel Fergie and her best friend, Olga Honey Boo Boo, a miniature poodle. Bella, the bull dog, wore a one-of-a-kind runway piece. Three-pound Fergie and her standard poodle pal Zoe closed the show in their knockout, custom-designed runway outfits. In addition to viewing the latest canine couture fashions, guests at the event enjoyed wine and "Rin Tin Tini" cocktails, light hors d'oeurves, plus treats including human-friendly dog biscuits and "Dog Pound Cake." Attendees’ names were put in a raffle drawing to win a Barque design. Members from local no-kill shelter, Paws Chicago, were also at the event collecting donations. Barque designs range from size 4 to 14, and retail for $50 to $250 each. They are available online at http://www.barque.biz or retail at Pawsh Puppies. |
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