Guide Dogs on the Runway

When Guide Dogs Australia and the Kangan Institute combined to present the Diamond Dogs showcase, they turned the Park Hyatt Ballroom into one of the most packed, fun-filled fashion venues of VAMFF 2018.

The runway way was turned over to the dogs alongside some of Australia’s biggest fashion labels. Specifically, Romance was Born, Camilla, Manning Cartell, Elk, Bul, Thurley, Ben Sherman, Lisa Barron, Vincent Li, Nevada Duffy, Isabelle Quinn, Skwosh and Mister Zimi.  Models wearing these designer labels walked the runway with guide dogs in matching custom made designer coats.

Runway rehearsals definitely paid off as the dogs were on their best behaviour. There were still funny moments, as when some of the dogs decided to stop mid-runway. Models laughed. So did the audience who also engaged, with children leaning forward irresistibly to pat the dogs as they came past. These natural, upolished moments repeatedly produced high energy and a great vibe in the three sold-out shows.

We’d be surprised if Diamond Dogs doesn’t become a VAMFF fixture!

Turning the catwalk into a dogwalk also turned out to be a great fundraiser for Guide Dogs Australia. The designer coats have been made available for auction and there’s still time to bid on pieces here. The Auction Closes on March 28 at 3pm.

Photos: Zoe Kostopoulos

__________________