Fundraising fashion show unites models and rescue dogs for Tears Animal Rescue

Beauty and adorable rescue dogs shared the spotlight at a fundraising Re-Love fashion show at a restaurant in Groot Constantia in support of the Tears Animal Rescue on Thursday, November 13.

Hundreds of guests — including sponsors, donors, supporters, and local fashion designers — turned out to back the Fish Hoek–based non-profit, which was organised and sponsored by one of Tears’ biggest pet food partners.

Tears provides shelter, veterinary care, and outreach support to vulnerable animals from communities such as Vrygrond, Capricorn, and Red Hill, and also operates several thrift shops in Retreat, Capricorn, Fish Hoek, and Sunnydale.

Guests filled out donation cards that were handed out, and the fashion that was modeled was auctioned off, where all proceeds went to Tears.

General manager of Tears, Heidi May, said the idea behind the ‘Re-Love’ fashion show means the re-love of fashion, though it was also for many of the animals in the shelter to be "Re-Love."

Ms May said all funds raised would go towards funding their animal welfare projects, such as providing hospitalisations, paying bills, and providing animal vaccinations and sterilisation.

Representative of the pet food company that sponsored this event, Jackie Quail said they were excited to support the rescue dogs of Tears in this fashion show. “Each one of them is looking for their forever home, and that’s what makes this event so special. It’s not just a fashion show, it’s a chance to raise vital funds and help transform the lives of animals who deserve a second chance.”

Models on the catwalk wore exclusive outfits from fashion designers like Lara Klawikowsk, Mareth Colleen, VictorK Couture, Me & B. Drag artist Manila Von Teez provided entertainment and wore fashion from her own label.

The dogs also had the chance to model, showcasing the dog fashion they received for the show.

Fashion designer, Betina Swart from Me & B, said they are supporting Tears on this fashion show by donating all their dog jerseys to be auctioned off or to be sold in their charity stores.

The total amount raised from the fashion show will be announced next week.

If anyone would like to continue to support and donate funds towards this organisation, visit Tears.