WELCOME SPRING FROM "THE POODLES OF PARK AVENUE" BY KAREN-CHERIE COGANE!

FAST FORWARD TO 3/19 with Simone, the Park Avenue poodle: “Hi, everyone! Guess what is on the horizon?

THIS IS MY FIRST POEM:

‘Knock, knock! Who’s at the door? It’s Spring 2024!

This enchanting season has a bit of everything. So, Spring it on!

Even if it’s still a bit chilly outside, I’m beyond excited that Spring has arrived.

There’s a shift in the seasons, for good reason.

It’s time to watch people ride by on scooters and roller skates, relax by the lake, and eat delicious cupcakes. And college students put the books aside and have fun on Spring Break.

Stroll into Spring with uplifting things and do the Spring strut.

Little buds open up.

Yes, beautiful flowers are blooming . . . Couples are swooning . . . Birds with their expansive wings are soaring … It’s alluring.

Butterflies appear at this time of year.

There are many blossoms that I adore: gardenias, roses, lilacs, daisies, peonies, sunflowers, hydrangeas, marigolds, and more.

Why, it’s a Spring awakening.

There’s anticipation and no more hibernation. Sleeping bears wake up, and tadpoles grow up. The sweetness of tiny pups . . .

Not to mention that frogs leap, and we eat marshmallow Peeps.

Grass turns to bright green, and the majestic trees are the bees’ knees . . . Branches sway in the gentle breeze … People saunter and promenade with hopeful ease …

Colorful tulips on Park Avenue ... Nature at its very best for me and you . . .

Lucky ladybugs are thought to bring good luck.

Ducks quack, swim, and splash.

Most of all, we said au revoir to Winter and Fall.

The new season is a breath of fresh warm air, and a feeling of devil may care! Hooray, Spring is here!

Kick up your heels and dress with appeal.

There’s long awaited warm weather and shedding coats, and sweaters!

We’ve changed the clocks and taken off heavy socks.

Daylight savings time is sublime. An hour or two more of sunlight, and then we ease into night.

Seeds sprout, and there is so much beauty, no doubt.

I love the blue sky and the puffy clouds that are high.

Mojito, my Chihuahua walking partner, thinks he’s dogdom’s king. Desires a harem of never-ending girls with straight hair or curls.

Where did this delusional canine get this crazy notion, and why does he make such a commotion?

People hum and sing, and girls wear sparkling engagement rings.

We give a big Spring welcome to special occasions, like weddings and graduations.

Humans are in a cheerful mood and have a resilient attitude.

Time to watch your shape and go on in-person dates or virtual dates ...

A big kiss here and a hug there . . . Romance flourishes at this time of the year, and as for love - - Hear, Hear!

On our penthouse terrace mom sips café latte in a cup, while my beau, Ricardo and I snuggle up.

Whether it’s outside or inside, our adulation we do not hide.

What a sweeping view of Park Avenue! The buildings are very tall, but the humans below look very small.

Dogs scamper with their people or walkers around town, and kids frolic on the playground.

Who can resist skipping and hopping, and eating ice cream cones with topping?

Slushies and frozen yogurt in cups, in various flavors to savor . . .

Refreshing coffee with ice and desserts that delight and entice . . .

Almond and coconut milk lattes perk up any day.

And yahoo for Cold Brew!

Picnics and dogs learning new tricks . . . I am rewarded with bacon treats when I perform my feats. But how about some new eats?

Forget about getting cold on my nose and toes. Now I’ll wear lighter Spring clothes and matching bows.

I pride myself in looking smashing, as a maven of fashion.

I’m the hit on every Manhattan block, as I showcase feminine frocks!

Spring is a clothing adventure for me, a poodle trendsetter, and a go-getter.

Oui, the nouveau styles make me smile!

Sophisticated Spring season trends will delight the girls and entice the men.

Be unexpected . . . Effortless . . . Adventurous . . . Perfectly pretty . . . . Reveal an undeniably new you!

Let Spring fashion sweep you into its whirlwind of happiness and style.

So, what’s up on Seventh Avenue? Terrific outfits and accessories, too.

From casual chic to business attire to all out glam, let your clothes highlight your assets.

Take your pick.

Go ahead and express yourself.

Spring fashion has a lot of ease, just like a Spring breeze.

Say “Of course” to new fashion that is dashing.

And people will ask, "Who are you wearing?"

Put the latest on-trend clothes in your cart and give your wardrobe a refresh, a new start!

Happy shopping!’

SPRING 2024 FASHION REPORT:

1. Drum rolls, please! PEACH FUZZ is Pantone’s color of 2024! It marks the 25th anniversary of Pantone’s Color of the Year program. It is a soft hue that is nestled between pink and orange. Peach Fuzz invokes the desire to be kind, compassionate, and to connect. It fosters much coziness as we aim for a future of peace.

2. Little White Dresses - the LWD has arrived, and wow, does the pretty frock garner applause! Styles range from eyelet trim to lace, short to long, and in the front row, and on the Red Carpet, wearers of the LWD belong.

3. Soft Pale Blues and Icy Blues

4. Sky Blues, as in azure dresses with matching shoes or a handbag in a pop of Sky Blue

5. Lilac: soft lavender or a richer lilac. Who doesn’t love this beautiful shade?

6. Green: either bright, muted, like seafoam or sage in accessories and clothing, connotes Spring. In fact, sage is the nouveau neutral -- It refreshes, relaxes, and transforms. Green -- the color of nature, for sure.

7. The color of Rouge, as seen all over the Paris runways, but not for the faint of heart

8. Rich Burgundy. Or call it burgundy, maroon, or oxblood. Start small with a maroon cardigan, pair of loafers, or a designer bag in this lovely color. Gucci, Valentino, and Sergio Hudson did burgundy tonal outfits Epic Trenches

9. Black is back. Can wear it alone or pair it with a pastel.

1O. Sheer Fashion and Sheer Layering: Tulle, and Mesh: For on or off the red carpet, pick up a dress with a chiffon sheer skirt of transparent socks. Dior, Chanel, Prada, and Hermes are showing the see-through look.

11. “Air-Con” Fabrics: Think Air Conditioning for the body with Openwork Knitting Techniques

12. Rose Adornment: on Dresses, Skirts, and Vests

13. Girlcore: Bows, Lace, Ruffles, and Rosettes

14. Skirt Alert: It's the season for Crystals, Paillettes, and Fringes on skirts!

15. Sleek Pencil Skirts

16. The popularity of midi skirts, such as those in denim

17. Midi dresses

18. Disco style is back! Lame gowns a la Ralph Lauren (as homage to Halston), metallic fabrics, rhinestones, and paillettes. Reimagined Studio 54 and Saturday Night Fever! Pair your disco delights with leather pants, sweaters, or plain jeans.

19. Popped Collars: Sporty Polos

20. Eyelet is dainty and is seen on cardigans, pants, dresses, and blouses.

21. Athletic Prep – Prep School Classics: Button-Down Shirts, Track Jackets, Micro-Mini Pleated Skirts, and Polo Shirts.

22. Go wild with Animal Prints are unleashed, as in beauty wears the beast. Some call the trend, “Mob-Wife Effect.” Leopard print is the most popular. You can also try tiger, giraffe, or peacock. Jason Wu has snake-print sandals, but try dresses, skirts, and pants.

23. Non-basic basics: Simple yet tres chic, as in high-waist jeans and long-sleeve T-shirts

24. And who can resist t-shirts that are twisted?

25. Wide leg trousers, cropped slacks, and jeans are so keen. Fabrics like linen, Ponte, blends, and rayon, are right on.

26. Subversive office wear: Roomy trousers and nipped-waist blazers, in addition to skinny glasses.

27. 1980’s Excess: Big blazers, cap-toe slingbacks, and oversized shades. Think over-the-top fashion attitude. Louis Vuitton did a fashion ode to material girls.

28. White linen blazers

29. The personification of class: Matching your top to your bottom. The monochromatic and tonal look is streamlined and fine. Lively patterns and prints -- alot or just a hint. Think a cardi and matching slacks, a blouse that goes with cropped pants, or shorts and a tank set. Duets are the best yet!

30. Dressing with Spring layers that are light for day and just right for night. First thing noticed and last thing on. Right on!

31. Tops with mesh, rouching, or crochet are A-okay.

32. Graphic stripes: High visibility stripes in relaxes sweaters and shirtdresses. Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, and Carven showed them as separates.

33. Fringe on pants, frocks, and tops

34. Beach pants in linen or rayon/linen blends come in solids or lively patterns. They’re comfy, stylish, and have swag. Now how about a matching beach bag?

35.Stacked heel shoes and wedges, often with raffia or cork on the heels

36.Kitten heels

37. Ballet flats in mesh or two-tones

38. Peep-toe shoes: Classic pumps to thong sandals. Just make sure to get your pedicure.

39. Sneakers with embellishments like glitter and appliques, in vivid colors have gone the fancy route. Not just for working out – also for brunching and having dinner.

40. Try not to gloat when you carry a functional yet beautiful leather, or faux leather tote. And totes are everywhere!

41. Colorful, quilted bags are spiffy and pretty.

42. Paperclip and chain-link necklaces are also on trend as well as paperclip earrings.

43. Turquoise jewelry emanates Spring and pairs well with many colors.

44. RSVP and say "Yes" to the dress! Wear florals, solids, and other lively patterns, and you'll definitely impress.

45. Blouses with flounces or flutter sleeves please.

46. Polka dots are always tops!

46. Belted blazers that are structured yet so chic.

47. Trenchcoats that are shorter, colorful, and some even feature eyelet.

48. Pare down what you carry, and weave a dainty crochet bag into your Spring wardrobe.

49. When it is warmer, look alluring in a open back top. Halters, criss-crossed in back or tied at the neck, blouses or tanks, neutrals or hot hues, this one's for you!

50. Be on the style track with a pair of becoming sling backs.

51. The Palm Beach look, complete with Spring-inspired plaid skirts or pants, polos, coordinating sneaks, and a matching headband. Can it be anything but grand?

BEAUTY TRENDS FOR SPRING 2024:

1. Skin Streaming: Streamlining your skin care routine so you’re a minimalist. The idea is less is more in skin care.

2. Honey Blonde Hair Color: Golden radiance can be applied to light brown or dark blonde hair. Suits people with cool skin tones and neutral complexions, with medium to light eye color.

3. Peach Fuzz, Pantone’s Color of the Year, flatters most people and is great for blush, eyeshadow, and lips. Try a swipe of peach blush, like MAC’s Melba and peachy shades in the eye crease, as in MAC’s Shell Peach eyeshadow. Can use this with MAC’s saddle eyeshadow, a warm brown, to deepen the outer lid. MAC’s Teddy eyeliner can be applied to rim the eyes. Warm bronzer is a good accent to the peachy tones.

4. Pixie Hair Cut: Short on the sides and back, and slightly longer on top, usually with short, wispy bangs styled to the side. This playful look reveals confidence and adds an edgy twist with its layers and textured edges to any look. Can be worn either messy or styled neatly, making it quite versatile.

5. 1990’s Makeup Trends Revisited: Frosty lips

6. Balletcore trend, of course is inspired by ballerinas. Soft pastel colors reminiscent of ballet costumes and shades of pink, cream, and white in both matte and shimmery finishes. It’s subtle, yet impactful, focusing on enhancing natural beauty.

7. At the other end of the spectrum is the Jelly Fish Haircut, inspired by the underwater creature. This playful haircut consists of long layers and is for the more adventurous.

8. A.I. Beauty – Need a manicure or eyelash extensions on the fly? How about a robot to make these services quicker and cheaper. Meet ‘Clockwork MiNiCURE’ the first fully autonomous polish change robot!

9. Blue Everything: From vibrant electric hues to softer pastel shades, it’s back! As far as manicures go, blue will dominate through Spring. Blue mascara, liners, and shadows are attention-grabbing. YSL’s Lash Bossy Blue, adds an electric blue pop to your lashes. On the other hand, Glossier’s Skywash Liquid-to-Powder Sheer Matte Eyeshadow Tint in Pool, creates a baby blue eyeshadow effect.

10. Mermaidcore captivates with its enchanting oceanic vibes. According to makeup artist Nicky Posley, "Mermaidcore makeup embodies whimsical, luminous, and fairy-like, pastel tones that reflect and play with light. It can be a sparkling eyelid, highlighted cheek, or glossy lip." Regarding mermaidcore hair, it involves a wet-look finish, mermaid waves, accessories with pearls or seashells, and fishtail braids that create tide-slicked vibes.

11. Feeling a little rebellious? Opt for a darker, bold lip and still be hip.

12. Or perhaps tres feminine? You can match your lip hue to your blush for a pretty monocrome makeup look. Try the colors of pink, plum, or coral for your pout and your cheeks. Maybe opt for JELLY TINT from MILK Makeup for this soft effect.

13. Mascaras that do it all: Curl, lengthen, and thicken, like BADGIRL BANG from Benefit Cosmetics, LIGHTS, CAMERA, LASHES from Tarte, and FAN FEST from Benefit. Then go ahead, and flutter!

14. Plumping lipglosses made with aloe, cinnamon, or hyaluronic acid. Not only do they soothe your lips, these glosses give you a full and alluring pout.

15. Fuller tresses -- Some might say, "Big Hair." Do you dare?

To be sure, never underestimate the power of Canine Couture!

Take it from me, here comes my favorite category!

DOGGIE SPRING 2024 FASHION TRENDS:

1. Floral Patterns on clothing and accessories that range from subdued to bold. Wear these fashionable florals when your person takes you out, for playing in the park, or for a special event. You can match with your pet parent’s outfit.

2. Bright and Bold Colors: Vibrant colors like yellows, pinks, and blues. Yahoo! Stylish and make dogs visible during night walks.

3. Lightweight Fabrics: Comfy, breathable, and light, like cotton and linen are Spring perfect. Keep you warm during the still-cool a.m. and as the day gets hotter, ensure you’re cool.

4. Mix and Match – Natch: Create unique and versatile looks for your doggie. Make your canine’s tee more stylish with a floral bandana or dress him or her in a raincoat in a bright color.

5. Eco-Friendly Fashion: Clothes and accessories made from recycled materials or sustainable fibers demonstrate an environmental commitment.

6. Functional Accessories: For showers waterproof raincoats and booties/wellies are on trend, ensuring your furry friend stays dry and comfortable. Reflective strips on clothes and booties provide safety during walks.

To sum it up: Fashion trends for dogs this Spring are dapper and exciting. They marry style, comfort, and practicality for your pup. It will be great to do a canine wardrobe update. Comfort is key to keeping us pooches happy.

Bien sur, great style will always make me (and other dogs) smile.

PRESENTING THE SECOND POEM BY SIMONE:

‘Oh, how I’ve waited for longer days and sunny rays.

Ahh, Spring, thank goodness you’re back! When it comes to seasons, you’ve got the knack.

I don’t balk when Frank takes us for leisurely walks.

Or we do Madison Avenue window shopping and bopping.

I take it all in stride when I romp in Central Park and go for a carousel ride. Love to promenade on the Upper East Side.

Exuding much pep and, I have bounce in my step.

With my usual poodle grace, I keep the energetic pace. . .

Throwing caution to the wind, let’s have spontaneous fun and go on an exhilarating run.

Best of all, it’s strutting without Winter quivers or shivers . . .

My Spring beauty refresh is just the best. Going to my salon, 'Ma Belle Chien’ is such a fantastic excursion and my favorite diversion. What can I say? I love getting pampered all day. Lilly, my stylist, rocks! She’s the best in any Manhattan block!

People (and me) quench with Snapple iced tea. Or they drink Kombucha tea, which is a little too strong for me. Mommy admits it’s not too yummy, but the probiotics are good for the tummy.

I feel footloose, carefree, fancy free, and undeniably me! In Central Park, my agile Ricardo catches a Frisbee with glee.

Even though I'm a refined poodle, I cheer loud and feel so proud.

Ricardo and I spend time quality together without fretting about the cold weather.

Even though romping in mounds of snow is fun, I’m glad it’s done. Goodbye to the white fluff; I love the thin green stuff. I’m talking about the pleasant smell of grass that is mowed. The Manhattan lights are all a glow, and people are excited going to Broadway shows.

Perhaps take in the Broadway musical about Michael Jackson, “MJ”, have dinner, and have a wonderful day. There are great revivals like “Merrily We Roll Along” by Steven Sondheim and fantastic new shows, like the musical, “The Notebook” and as a cultured Park Avenue poodle, I know.

Relaxing at the lake, we don’t bake, in the sunshine that is, and we’re almost like kids. Since our nurturing dog walker protects us with canine sunscreen, we don’t get a sun sheen.

The Big Apple thrives, and eager tourists arrive. There are myriads of people in Times Square, and at the big buildings, they do stare.

Naturally, I love Park Avenue, but I also enjoy exploring different streets and venues.

Having fun looking at eye-catching store displays, on relaxing days.

Smiling faces frequent open spaces. Previously, when we wore masks, it was no easy task. We were smart and stayed six feet apart. Thank goodness for the vaccines. Now things have eased up, which is great for humans and their devoted pups.

Cyclists pedal pikes, and runners wear Nikes.

Children and pooches have playdates, and people look for mates.

Discovering bistros along the way that we’ll visit on Spring days ...

Anticipating the gang and me in comfy outdoor seats enjoying our favorite eats.

Dogs are welcome at many places cause’ everyone wants to see our very cute and innocent faces. We sit outside, as our dog walker or owners supervise with pride.

Happy to see the attentive waiters and can’t wait to make new pooch and people friends.

Drinking chilled flavored Perrier from silver water bottles and bowls, and taking strolls . . .

Love lunching at our favorite place, Cafe Beaucoup: Me, Ricardo, Frank, and you know who . . .

My boyfriend and me are romantic, and that moody Chihuahua has his usual rowdy antics.

The Chihuahua says he feels incognito, as people don’t often ask to pet Mojito.

My advice for Mojito is you better think twice and be nice. If he would just stop yapping, we’d be cheering and clapping! Doesn’t have a clue, but, doggie dude, don’t be rude. Change your attitude!

Why do I have to see that crazy canine all the time? Seven days a week! Eek!

Sauntering down the street, we grin at those we meet . . .

At seven o’clock, sometimes we’re still parading on the blocks.

An elegant poodle, perchance, I prance, and do my joyful dance: 'Five ... Six ... Seven .... And eight . . . Isn’t Spring great?'

Admiring glances follow me in NYC.

I’ll certainly mention that I’m the obvious center of attention.

I’m THE Park Avenue poodle, who’s never mistaken, and many pics are taken: 'Simone! Can we please snap a photo?' I hear from far and near.

The paparazzi clicks begin, as I do my head tilt, pose, and then a graceful spin.

It goes without saying that people want selfies with poodle me.

Fans ask for my autograph, so Frank signs on my behalf.

I’m a Standard Poodle, but far from ordinary.

I have social and media followers galore; Rest assured.

As for my mom, she wears her bangs down or to the side and a longer layered hairdo. Sometimes she gets highlights or wears her hair up at night.

Bobbed, layered, or long, she can’t go wrong.

Fashion forward is she, just like me. We’ll be on a runway someday.

When Grace shows me glamorous mags, I do enthusiastic barks and tail wags. She shares Vogue, In Style, and Vanity Fair. From cover to cover, I chose the right mother!

Mommy folds colorful magazine pages with her favorite fashion looks. Oui, there are many Spring styles that make Grace and me smile.

And, yes, the joy of an afternoon nap, sitting on my mom’s lap.

An intimate soiree welcomes the new season and for what better reason?

The fragrance of fresh flowers lingers for hours.

As we dine aromatic candles shine. They sure set the mood and create the ambiance with the fancy food.

Dainty canapes served by our butler, Ardsley, paired with champagne, Cabernet, Sauvignon Blanc, Nouveau Beaujolais, or Chablis . . . Hey, how about a taste for me?

Jorge bakes dog-friendly carob cakes, and I love eating sirloin or New York Strip steak. You know, I could go for Lamb Osso Bucco or a tender rib eye that Jorge buys.

How about sampling decadent cupcakes with pastel icing that are enticing?

Ricardo’s human is our cook extraordinaire. Between me and you, there’s nothing amazing Jorge can’t do.

He creates decorated yellow gateau, petit fours, and Pavlova meringue towers, befitting our chef with superpowers. Jorge bakes for hours, and then we devour. To my delight, I take some yummy bites.

Jorge, our culinary star, is making cereal/cookie bars. He mixes gooey cookie batter with our favorite cereals and adds some secret ingredients. Lucky Charms, Rice Crispies, Coco Puffs, and other cereal stuff . . . Voila, a thick decadent cookie with stuffing, almost like a muffin!

They are yummy, and taste so good in my poodle tummy. Also makes cupcakes that are Red Velvet, S’mores, or Chocolate Galore, and much more. Oatmeal, Vanilla, Peanut Butter and Chocolate, and Chocolate Chip! But Grace said she’s afraid the calories will go to her hips!

Don’t worry about my mom, though. She is svelte, beautiful, and keeps in shape. I mean, she actively takes care of poodle me. How lucky could my human be?

What’s next for the talented Jorge? His own TV cooking show? Who knows? Move over Gordon Ramsay, Jorge is the chef and catch of the century, and the gals always flirt with he! (I know it’s supposed to be ‘him,’ but it’s always time for a rhyme.)

To people and dogs: As we usher in Spring 2024, let the warm weather begin, and here's to happy, peaceful, and healthy days! Yay!

This is coming from one thrilled pup: Gear up!

Bienvenue Printemps!'

P.S. Frank showed me this pic of a girl Chihuahua wearing a pink floral sweatshirt. When Mojito, the silly Chihuahua, saw it, he jumped on his hind legs and shouted: ‘Wow! She’s so beautiful! I want to add her to my harem NOW! Si!”

Written by: Simone, THE Park Avenue poodle who truly loves Spring, helped by Karen-Cherie Cogane