In the golden glow of stage lights and camera flashes, Loretta Swit—icon, humanitarian, and beloved M*A*S*H star—made one of her final public appearances on stage at ELYSIAN’s second annual CatWalk FurBaby 2024 Fashion Show during New York Fashion Week. Now, just days after her passing, we reflect with reverence and gratitude on a woman who defined grace, purpose, and enduring star power.
In February 2025, Loretta Swit graced the cover of ELYSIAN Magazine—a luminous tribute to a life well-lived. The exclusive Spring Philanthropy & Fashion Issue was unveiled at the historic National Arts Club in Gramercy Park on a snowy New York evening, bringing together designers, models, and changemakers to celebrate the magic of the second annual CatWalk FurBaby Fashion Show and to premiere the event’s behind-the-scenes documentary.
Loretta’s presence permeated the evening. A treasured highlight of the 2024 CatWalk FurBaby show, she walked the runway at Sony Hall during New York Fashion Week on September 5, 2024, representing Honoring America’s Veterans. Arm-in-arm with Ziggy, a spirited shih tzu-terrier mix, she donned a custom gown titled Radiant Beauty, created by Project Runway alum Johnathan Kayne. Navy stretch velvet adorned with hand-set crystal fireworks wrapped her like the living legend she was—elegant, radiant, and deeply patriotic. Kayne, whose own military family history runs deep, designed the piece to reflect Loretta’s luminous spirit and her unwavering commitment to America’s service men and women.
That day, CatWalk FurBaby doubled in size from its inaugural year, featuring 21 charities and showcasing couture designs,
canine companions, and changemakers from across the country. With a live DJ, electric runway energy, and a powerful philanthropic purpose, the event brought fashion and advocacy into bold alignment. From the stage, ELYSIAN Founder and Publisher Karen Floyd shared, “Ripples create waves, and waves create change.” Few embodied that truth better than Loretta Swit.
While she will forever be remembered for her Emmy-winning portrayal of Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan on M*A*S*H—a series that earned 14 Emmy Awards, 109 nominations, and a Peabody Award—Loretta’s career spanned decades and genres. She brought her signature presence to beloved television staples including Hawaii Five-O, Mission: Impossible, Mannix, The Love Boat, The Muppet Show, Cagney & Lacey, and Murder, She Wrote. But beyond the screen, her heart beat strongest for animals, veterans, and vulnerable communities. Her compassion was not performative—it was deeply personal.
Following the documentary screening and cover reveal at the National Arts Club, guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, cocktails, and a signature drink featuring the indulgent fusion of Rahm Roast Coffee and MarieBelle Chocolate. As a final highlight, Loretta personally signed copies of the magazine—creating cherished keepsakes for everyone lucky enough to attend.
ELYSIAN was honored to present the second CatWalk FurBaby documentary alongside producers Karen Floyd, Dr. Christina Rahm, Clayton Thomas, and Dr. Kimberly Word, with the support of valued partners including The Root Brands, DRC Ventures, Merci Dupre Clothier, and Blissfully Living. It was a night that celebrated not only fashion and philanthropy, but the powerful legacy of one of television’s most enduring icons.
Loretta Swit’s life was a masterclass in meaningful fame—proof that celebrity can amplify compassion and that style is most powerful when it carries purpose.
As we remember Loretta—actress, advocate, and radiant soul—we invite you to revisit her final cover moment and honor the woman whose light still inspires.
In 2016, Loretta followed her heart and founded SwitHeart Animal Alliance—a nonprofit born from her deep love for animals and her unwavering commitment to ending cruelty. If you’d like to honor her legacy and help make a difference, you can donate here.