I know more about chemicals and cruelty free than the average Joe. I can probably tell you, off the top of my head, details of what you’ll find in individual products typically found on grocery store shelves. I can also give you an idea of what effects those products will have on you and your beloved pet, and which of them have been tested on animals. Seriously, I spend a lot of time looking at specifics of my industry.

What I do not know, is fashion. Don’t get me wrong, I try to keep up with varying designers and their take on fur and leather because it ties in to the cruelty free lifestyle – very challenging, I might add. Ask me to put an outfit together, though, and I’m completely lost.

As you may know, my sister Jann and I were invited to go on the Nate Berkus Show for a complete makeover: clothing, hair, makeup. Apparently, the thing that sealed the deal was the picture I sent in of what I was wearing on the particular day I spoke with the production staff… I won’t go in to detail, but suffice to say it is NOT reflective my professional attitude.

I was a little concerned about doing the show because there are so many aspects of fashion that involve animal testing, leather and fur. I made it clear from the start I don’t “do” any of the above. Jaime recognized my position, and assured me they could work with it. So far into the process, I’m delighted to say, they really have accommodated me.

Our fashion expert (and she REALLY knows what she’s doing) is Mary Alice Stephenson. There are many faux fur alternatives available. There is also a lot of faux snake skin. Another new thing for me. Although I am much more comfortable in my own skin rather than the skin of someone else (faux, or no), I’m hoping the editors don’t entirely cut our playful faux exchange onto the cutting room floor.

I’ll keep you informed as to when the show airs!