Shih Tzu Sissi steals spotlight as Paris Couture Week's tiniest front-row star

The nine-month-old pup attends seven couture shows, winning over designers and street-style photographers

Nine-month-old Shih Tzu Sissi became one of the unexpected stars of the Fall 2026 couture shows, taking her place on the front row dressed in custom luxury outfits.

Sissi accompanied her owner, Poppy, a jewellery entrepreneur and investor who regularly attends Paris Couture Week. Although naturally shy, the tiny pup quickly won over fashion insiders with her calm demeanour and impeccable style.

Speaking to Vogue, Poppy said Sissi enjoyed watching the runway and even seemed captivated by the shows. "She was really focused while watching the models walk down the runway during Schiaparelli," she said. "Then she yawned and kept looking around while waiting for Chanel to begin."

Poppy described Sissi as "incredibly shy and super sweet." "She's super quiet and never barks. She loves following me everywhere and enjoys being around lovely people," she told Vogue.

 

 

 

 

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During the couture season, Sissi attended seven shows, including Schiaparelli, Balenciaga, Chanel, Armani Privé and Jean Paul Gaultier. She also met designers Jean Paul Gaultier and Vera Wang, while her stylish appearances made her a favourite among street-style photographers.

Poppy said Sissi's calm temperament makes her an ideal companion for high-profile fashion events. "Most of the time, she either naps peacefully or sits quietly watching the runway," she said.

The fashionable pup also has an extensive wardrobe. Poppy, who owns six dogs, said she prefers dressing them in soft silk and cotton fabrics to keep them comfortable. "Because they are so small, I want them to be comfortable, not just to look pretty," she said.

 

 

 

 

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Among Sissi's standout looks was a custom Jean Paul Gaultier ensemble designed by Franck Duquenne, a close friend of Poppy's. The Shih Tzu wore a pale pink dress paired with a sparkling tiara for the show.

Poppy also admitted she rarely keeps track of how much she spends while shopping.

"I never check the price for any single item because, normally, when I shop for myself or for them, I don't just purchase one item," she said. "It's not worth the energy to check how much each piece is."

PHOTO: Vogue

For Poppy, couture is more than luxury fashion; it is wearable art. She admires the craftsmanship, exceptional fabrics and meticulous attention to detail that define couture, where every garment is created specifically for its wearer.

Sissi's first couture season proved that style knows no bounds. From quietly watching the runway to charming designers, photographers and fashion insiders alike, the tiny Shih Tzu emerged as one of Paris Couture Week's most memorable front-row guests.