Lasell's School of Fashion partnered with Beth Israel Lahey Health and its pet therapy coordinator Patti Betti to create garments for a canine fashion show. 

"I wanted something professional that wasn't bland or boring," said Betti. "I wanted these designs to pack a punch and so I contacted Lasell. Boy, did they deliver!"  

Prior to COVID-19 closures, seven students from the School of Fashion met with faculty members Jill Carey, Maritza Cantero Farrell, and Gail Jauregui to create garments for their four-legged clients. For a full day in March, the team refined and sharpened outfit designs and took up to 60 measurements to get the fit exactly right.  

"Each dog had its own personal styling," said Carey, professor of fashion and curator of the Lasell Fashion Collection. 

"Every detail, every inch, and every stitch mattered," said Farrell, an associate professor of fashion. 

A total of 18 therapy dogs will participate in the fundraising show, which is currently scheduled for October 2020. Donations will support both the Sophia Gordon Cancer Center at Lahey Hospital and COVID-19 patient recovery.  

"The combination of the dogs and their extravagant outfits will help drive fundraising revenue," said Betti. Her own dog, Zest, is part of the hospital's pet therapy program and has been recognized for her service and dedication during patient diagnoses, treatment, and end-of-life programs.  

"At a Lasell fashion show, models get the confidence and style that comes with the experience," said Carey. "The same can be expected this fall at the Paws for a Cause show."