Walking the Fur Ball Fierce Lewks for Dogs

By Larry Olsen

RuPawl has been lighting up Instagram, wearing replicas of the gowns seen on RuPaul's Drag Race. Created by their owner, José Lizárraga, some of the most iconic lewks include Ginger Minj's Pop Art look from All Stars 6, a stunningly accurate rendering of Maddy Morphosis's Rain Clowd gown, and Willow Pill's blue strawberry gown reimagined with blue Kong chew toys.

Now the Doggie Drag queen is launching a collection of clothing and accessories for other fierce canines. Dubbed Doggie Drag, the line features an array of stunning and flamboyant pieces that capture the essence of drag culture. From bright feather boas to sparkling sequined dog tags; there's even a fluffy blonde wig, honey!

Dogs can rule the racetrack in a hot pink and checkered jumpsuit inspired by Mama Ru, or they can sashay away in the Mutha of the Runway gown, an opulent tulle explosion that includes glistening silver embellishments.

"Our collection is about celebrating individuality and self-expression," founder and CEO of Doggie Drag, José Lizárraga, says. "Four-legged divas deserve the opportunity to express their resplendence, nerve, and talent, and now they can shine as bright as the queens on the show.” We spoke with him from his home in Boulder, Colorado.

How did you launch the Doggie Drag collection?

We began the process with research, research, research. We scoured archives for some of the most iconic drag lewks out there, from past to present. We want our looks to be recognizably fabulous and drag! What is the story you are telling through this collection — and how does it fit into the overarching narrative of the brand?

We want to communicate that the artistry of drag is not just for humans, but for pets as well. This initial collection is about setting a tone of making our brand distinguishably drag, and not just doggie clothes. That's why the themes of this initial collection seem familiar and are influenced by the mainstream themes we see on tv. What is your favorite piece in the collection?

We are extremely proud of the "Start Your Engines" jumpsuit. Fans are loving it! It is made with high quality materials and just looks fabulous.

Which fabrics work best for canines?

Lightweight fabrics with a slight stretch because when it comes to pets, it's about maximum mobility and comfort. What colors dominate in the collection?

Hot pink, purples, and shine! You know the colors of glamour!

If you could have one queen from RuPaul's Drag Race as a guest designer for Doggie Drag, who would you choose?

Goodness. This is a hard question! But Sasha Velour's style is something we hope to explore sometime soon. She is so unique, yet so glamorous.

Of the RuPaul's Drag Race lewks from the show that you have recreated for RuPawl, which have been your favorites?

Our recent recreation of Jimbo's promo lewk for All Stars 8 is definitely up there. Loved playing with the proportions and with our favorite color, pink. We also loved recreating so many lewks of Sasha Colby's this season. One of our top faves was her "Tie Dye to Die For" lewk which we hand painted.

Why release Doggie Drag now?

The collection is the next natural progression for the work RuPawl and I have been doing with our lewk recreations on Instagram. We want other pooches to wear doggie drag and feel just as fabulous as our Lil Ru feels. We also look forward to growing the brand and collaborating with other artists who share our belief that drag is love, drag is life, and drag is not a crime.

By Maria Espinal

Seafood Bar

1 S. County Rd. • Palm Beach, FL 33480-4023

561.659.8488 • thebreakers.com/dining/seafood-bar

Sun – Thu 11am 10pm • Fri – Sat 11am – 11pm

With a stunning backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, seafood bar is located at The Beakers Hotel, decorated with nautical details, beautiful aquariums. Menu highlights: Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes, Filet Mignon Sliders and their Coconut Shrimp with delicious Sweet Chili Aioli (appetizers); Seafood Linguine, Fried Seafood Platter (Shrimp, Scallops, Calamari, Grouper, Fries, Tartar Sauce) & of course, filet mignon. Lovely side orders: Blue Crab Fried Rice and lobster coleslaw. See menu and prices before going.

Limonada

825 Washington Ave. • Miami Beach, FL 33139 305.800.0201 • limonadasouthbeach.com • Daily 8am – 11pm

I totally love their name, their logo and overall atmosphere. Limonada Breakfast Bar + Brunch, is the ultimate South Beach dining experience featuring classic cocktails and an all-day menu from breakfast to dinner with live music. Next to the Clinton Hotel in South Beach, Limonada's menu represents a modern interpretation of traditional American and Mexican fare with a tempting twist. With breakfast, brunch and happy hour menu, prices are reasonable for a South Beach venue. Private events can be hosted at Limonada. Love it!

Laspada's Hoagies

1495 SE 17th St Ste D. • Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316 954.522.3483 • laspadashoagies.com

Mon – Sat 10am – 8pm • Sun 11am – 11pm

I love this place for a quick bite & a good quality 8” or 12” deli sandwich while staying within budget. Choose from any of their deli sandwiches, any signature original hoagies, salad platter or deli salads, you will not be disappointed, everything is so good. With five locations in Broward County, Laspada's is also a great option to cater your next event. Vegetarian & Vegan options ava ilable.

Spanky's Cheesesteak & Wings Factory

309 N. State Road 7 • Margate, FL 33063 • 954.973.2170 spankysmargate.com • Mon - Sat 11am - 10pm • Sun Noon - 9pm

Spanky's Cheesesteak Factory is highly acclaimed for the Philly Cheesesteak aficionado, serving its patrons for over 20 years. With a welcoming atmosphere, they definitely have an extensive menu to choose from; some of the highlights are: Cheese tater tots, their signature philly cheesesteak, sausage & chicken philly (you can also get mini versions). Also available are juicy burgers, hot dogs, chicken wings, salads, beer & wine. Gift cards available.

Beef Empanadas