Audrey, privileged Jack Russel from the house of Versace, confides in Dogwalk telling us about her habits, the fashion world and her beloved master Donatella. An honnest confession, raw as flesh and outspoken.
D: Before diving into more intimate and private matters, how do you feel about being permanently under the spotlight?
A: Life has always been like this for me. Hence I feel perfectly at ease in front of a camera lens and I am used to being the focus of attention from both the press and our Versace fans. Donatella and I are nowadays an acclaimed duo. Of course there are moments where I would like the anonymity and going unnoticed, but that’s not always easy when the one holding your leash is a woman like Donatella.
D: Let’s talk about your name. I perceive it like a homage to Audrey Hepburn, a true style icon.
A: There is indeed a funny story behind my name. Donatella was hesitating for a while between Marilyn and Audrey but the choice was made for the latter, for the simple reason that I’m not a natural blonde.
D: Your fame precedes you in the fashion world. Can you tell us a little bit about your popularity level among other dogs?
A: Fortunately enough the other dogs accept me for who I am. They see me as a cute and pretty dog, maybe a little out of the ordinary. There are not many of us wearing tailor made garments. But I like to think that when a dog comes closer to take sniff at me, he does it because of a sincere attraction rather than for my status and success.
D: What do you think about the relation between men and dogs?
A: I just love humans. They are such loyal friends, there is no way you can misunderstand them, all they want is being loved. Not to mention Donatella. I just couldn’t imagine my life without her. She is my best friend. Loyal, full of energy, a true source of inspiration. She has always loved animals, especially dogs, since her early childhood years. When at work I see the results of the shootings of the Versace campaigns where they have casted other dogs, I can hardly control my envy. But that’s just how we Jack Russel’s are.
D: Since you mentioned envy. Recently Lady Gaga and her inseparable Fozzie Bear were your guests in Milano. Was it hard for you to share Donatella’s attention?
A: Lady Gaga and Fozzie are two lovely creatures. Being around them is always so stimulating. Also I have to admit I enjoy barking in English once in a while. It is important opening your mind to other cultures and keeping your ears pricked when it comes to working in the fashion world. I also have to admit that being the only dark haired among a team of three blondes makes me feel very special.
D: One last question. You and Donatella are both strong an charismatic personalities. Don’t you ever compete or clash?
A: Good call. Of course it has been a steady process, but now we are perfectly synchronized. We are both strong girls but it has to be without a doubt Donatella who is holding the leash. And I’m happy with that. If I decided to flash my teeth every time I disagree with her, it would be a dog’s life. It would be like biting your own tail.
Audrey and Donatella Versace, Grazia UK, February 25th 2013 || Versace Family Portrait, Photographer Alfa Castaldi, 1976, Copyright Archivi Gianni Versace from Versace, Richard Martin, Le Memorie della Moda, Octavo, 1997 || Donatella Versace and Lady Gaga, October 1st 2012
