By Diana Cavagnaro
‘Silk & Spice’
Giti Kooshkani presented the holiday fashion show Silk & Spice on Dec. 10, featuring GKDesigns at the beautiful Persian venue of Sufi Mediterranean Cuisine. Mistress of Ceremonies was Jessica Kalasho, who is the executive producer and director of the Miss Middle East USA Beauty Pageant.
There were three runway segments during the evening introducing GKDesigns, a line for women which consisted of day dresses and suits in beautiful silks and linens. Next came exquisite cocktail and formal evening wear. Many of these stunning designs were hand beaded. Each section was followed by an entertaining classic Persian dance by Ila Dance Studio.
Kooshkani is an international designer who first introduced her line in November 2016. These luxury garments are custom, handmade, and one of a kind, made from all natural fabrics from around the world. An appointment can be made to fit the garment for your size and personality. For an appointment, visit gklefashion.com.
‘Gaslamp Holiday Pet Parade’
The 10th annual San Diego Union-Tribune Gaslamp Pet Parade, sponsored by Just Food For Dogs and Helen Woodward Animal Center, was held Dec. 10 at the MLK Promenade Park in front of the Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter Hotel. Dogs and their owners showed up for the fantastic costume contest with nine different categories. There was a pet expo for the guests to peruse while they enjoyed the live music of the George Farres Band, more entertainment with a performance by Mini Shock from Culture Shock Dance, and a fun photo booth sponsored by Downtown Ace Hardware.
This festive event had canines showing up in all shapes and sizes. Contestants even brought cats, rabbits, and a hedgehog. The second annual Greyfrairs Bobby Award was given this year to Chopper the Biker Dog and his owner Mark Shaffer. Chopper rides his own Harley and delighted everyone at the event.
Attendees gathered under the Gaslamp Quarter Archway at 3 p.m. for the parade, which began with the Blue Buffalo truck and the Grand Marshal’s Sweet Pea and Sammie, who were the Best in Show winners from 2016.
They led the way up Fifth Avenue and down Fourth Avenue, returning to the park where they handed out the awards. The first place winners were: Best Ugly Sweater, Greg Fenton (Sammy and Dexter); Cutest Critter, Gigi Stickelman (Kai and Lil Bear); Best Pet Costume, Mero Marme (Lieutenant Dan); Best Pet Costume (non-canine), Hunter Johnson and Mikey Johnson (Mr. Mimosa, a rabbit and Ms. Pricklepants, a hedgehog); Best Holiday Costume Award, Alysha Hoberecht (Tzachary and Belle); Best Costumed Duo, Cindy Harris (Storm and Koko); Best Costumed Group, Corey Dobbs (Bran, Ferra, Ranger and Ozzie), and Best Holiday Dish, Ro Kugelmass (Pia).
This year’s Best in Show went to Lucy and owner George Pisano. The family was all dressed in Dr. Seuss-themed costumes. They will be the Grand Marshal for next year’s 11th annual Pet Parade, which will be held Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018. For more information, visit gaslamp.org.
Upcoming Events
Jan. 14 | Fall Bridal Bazaar — Three fashion shows throughout the day, presented by Gretchen Productions. Located at San Diego Convention Center, Hall C. For more information, call 760-334-5500.
Jan. 21 | Bridal Show — Presented by Once Gown Event, with local vendor and designer gowns. 4–8 p.m. Moniker Warehouse, 705 16th St., East Village. For more information, visit bit.ly/2DJRTQn.
Jan. 30 | Chic & Savvy Ladies Night — This event includes a fashion show, swag bag, drinks, and photo booths. 4–10 p.m. Port Pavilion on Broadway Pier. For tickets, visit bit.ly/2lwXtPC.
— Diana Cavagnaro is an internationally renowned Couture Milliner based in the Historic Gaslamp Quarter. Learn more about this hat designer, teacher and blogger at dianacavagnaro.com.
