It could be the biggest coup in Glamorama history — bigger than past headliners like the B-52’s, Wayne Newton and Cyndi Lauper … combined.
The one and only Miss Piggy made a surprise appearance at Macy’s fall fashion extravaganza Friday at the Orpheum Theatre. Before the show, La Pig, a fashionista before the term even existed, granted us an exclusive interview.
Q. You look amazing. Who are you wearing tonight?
A. Ooh! Ooh! I’m so glad you asked that question! Did my publicist suggest that, or did you come up with it on your own? Either way, it shows you understand the importance of fashion synergy, whereby I wear the dress and then mention the designer’s name. Now, if only I could remember his name … His name!? … Oh, gosh, I’m so embarrassed. He’s a dear, close personal friend. We summer together. We winter together. Sometimes, we even spring and fall together. And he is … sounds like … hold on, let me ask someone.
Hey, Morty, who’s that guy who made my dress? Whaddayamean “which” dress? The one I’m wearing to Glamorama! Yes, THAT dress … Oh, right. Thanks.
Marc Jacobs is moi’s designer. I’m wearing a Marc Jacobs original. And if I say so myself, I look fantastique in it. Thank you, Marc. I’ll never forget you … again.
Q. You’ve worked directly with many of the industry’s biggest names — Burberry, Prada, Louis Vuitton, Jason Wu and, apparently, Marc Jacobs. What is that like?
A It’s a very symbiotic relationship (whatever that means). They need a muse, and I need something to wear. So, it’s a win-win situation. I win the free clothes, and they win a photo-op with moi.
Q. Do the designers come to you?
A. Yes, they come to moi in droves … and limos.
Q. Are you able to guide their designs?
A. As an artiste myself, I understand the designer’s need to let their creative spirit run free. So, I do not want to interfere with their designs until the actual fitting — at which point I tell them exactly what I want and when I want it.
Q. Who has been most exciting to work with?
A. It would be unfair to name one designer as “most exciting.” So many designers have been so kind to me. They make me dresses, and I make their career. Who wouldn’t be excited about that?
Q. Do you have a favorite designer?
A. Yes, I do. But I am bound by honor and discretion not to mention them by name. Besides, I don’t want the other designers getting any ideas about cutting me off.
Q. How has your style evolved through the years?
A. I have more of it.
Q. How many pairs of shoes do you own?
A. Funny you should ask. I’m seeking federal funding to study that very thing. I’ll let you know when I know.
Q. What was your most regrettable fashion mo-ment?
A. The ’70s.
Q. What’s your biggest body challenge?
A. If by “body challenge” you are suggesting that moi’s body has imperfections, then I suggest you retract the question, or pretty soon I’ll be working around your body.
Q. S-s-sorry. Um, what item of clothing or accessory could you not live without?
A. My mirror. When you look as marvelous as I do, the clothes are really a mere embellishment. Underlying beauty is what matters. As the saying goes: “Beauty is only skin deep.” And trust me, sweetie, I’ve got very deep skin.
Q. Do you get self-conscious, being backstage at a major fashion event like this with models?
A. Not at all. You see, those young ladies and gentlemen may be models, but to them moi is a role model. I live the lifestyle they aspire to. A life where you can do, say, act, demand and eat whatever you want whenever you want it … and still not be completely satisfied. Let’s face it, backstage, onstage, anywhere I go, moi is the alpha diva.
Q. What’s on your fashion wish list for fall?
A. When it comes to fashion, moi believes in setting trends, not following them. That’s why I never know what I’ll be wearing next. On any given day, I have three criteria for deciding what to wear: (1) Is it expensive? (2) Did moi have to pay for it? Or was the designer smart enough to realize that “comping” me is worth its weight in gold — which, by the way is not a fat joke, so don’t even think that. And (3) is it in the “clean” pile? Everything else is just accessorizing.
Q. Please, if you would be so kind, share with us your best fashion secret.
A. Moi’s secret is simple: Start perfect and don’t change a thing. However, for those not blessed by being born as moi, I suggest excessive accessorizing.
Q. Where do you take your fashion inspiration?
A. I take it wherever I feel like, sweetie. That’s another advantage of being alpha diva. What’s that? You mean, who inspires me fashionistically speaking? Oh, that’s different. I take inspiration from nature. Nature is beauty in its purest form — especially when it’s short, green and has webbed feet.
Allison Kaplan can be reached at 651-228-5116.
