Record-Breaking Desert Tradition Returns with Dazzling New Theme ‘Disco Dogs,’ New
Fashion Director Neil Cohen, and an Open Call for Models
— Animal Samaritans today announced the 17th annual Men of the Desert
Fashion Show & Luncheon, returning to the iconic Palm Springs Air Museum in 2026. This year’s
event introduces an electrifying new theme, Disco Dogs, and welcomes acclaimed stylist Neil Cohen as
the event’s incoming Fashion Director. The event will be co-chaired once again by Brandon Boswell,
Steven Henke, and David Romness.
Now in its 17th year, Men of the Desert has grown into one of the Coachella Valley’s most celebrated
philanthropic traditions, a sold-out afternoon of fashion, laughter, and generosity that in 2025 drew more
than 500 guests and raised nearly $300,000 for Animal Samaritans’ life-saving programs. Over the
event’s history, funds raised have helped save the lives of more than 17,000 animals in the desert region.
Get Ready to Boogie: Introducing ‘Disco Dogs’
The 2026 edition arrives with a theme that is equal parts nostalgia, glamour, and pure fun: Disco Dogs.
Styled entirely through local desert boutiques and curated through Neil Cohen’s distinctly fresh point of
view, this year’s runway promises to be a high-energy showcase unlike anything the event has delivered
before. Expect bold personalities, standout looks, and, as always, the kind of unapologetic joy that only
the Coachella Valley can produce.
“Disco Dogs is about joy, pure, infectious, room-filling joy. We’re going to bring a level
of energy and creativity to this runway that reflects the spirit of this community. Every
look is going to tell a story, and every story is going to be one worth celebrating.”
— Neil Cohen, Fashion Director, Men of the Desert 2026
A Fresh Creative Vision: Neil Cohen Named Fashion Director
Animal Samaritans is proud to announce that Neil Cohen will serve as Fashion Director for Men of the
Desert 2026. Cohen brings with him a career built at the intersection of high fashion and editorial
storytelling, having worked alongside bold-face brands and leading style publications, as well as a
genuine love for the desert community he calls home.
Cohen’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Men of the Desert, one that builds on a legacy
carefully cultivated over many years. In a deliberate and meaningful choice, Cohen will spotlight
independent, locally owned boutiques and desert retailers to provide the wardrobe for this year’s runway,
turning the spotlight toward the small businesses that make the Coachella Valley’s fashion scene
distinctive and alive.
“Susan Stein built Men of the Desert into something truly extraordinary. Her creativity,
her dedication, and her deep love for this community are woven into everything this event
has become. We are incredibly grateful for the years she gave to this stage, and we carry
her legacy forward with tremendous pride.”
— Tom Snyder, CEO, Animal Samaritans
Cohen steps into the role with deep appreciation for the foundation built by Susan Stein of
SusanSteinStyle!, whose vision, passion, and years of dedicated stewardship shaped Men of the Desert
into the institution it is today. The event’s extraordinary growth, from its origins to a record-setting 500-
person crowd raising nearly $300,000 in a single afternoon, is a direct reflection of her artistry and
commitment. That legacy is the launchpad from which Men of the Desert 2026 takes flight.
Returning Co-Chairs Lead the Way
The 2026 event will once again be co-chaired by Brandon Boswell, Steven Henke, and David Romnes,
whose leadership and deep community ties have been instrumental in making Men of the Desert one of
the valley’s most anticipated days of the year. Their continued commitment ensures that the relationships,
energy, and organizational excellence that defined the 2025 record-breaking event will carry forward into
2026 with even greater ambition.
Tickets and Sponsorships
Tickets for Men of the Desert 2026 will go on sale late summer. Given the event’s history of selling out,
early purchase is strongly encouraged. Sponsorship packages will be available in June at multiple levels.
For sponsorship details, please contact Jarred Ellis, Director of Development and Philanthropy, at 760-
797-7439 or jellis@animalsamaritans.org. For more details on this exciting event, please email
events@animalsamaritans.org or call 760-332-5027.
About Animal Samaritans
Animal Samaritans believes in the healing power of animal-human connections and views all living
creatures with compassion and respect, with a primary focus on dogs, cats, and the people who love them.
Through spay/neuter services, adoption programs, and community outreach, Animal Samaritans works to
ensure that our animals in the Coachella Valley have the chance to live in a loving home. To learn more
or to donate, visit animalsamaritans.org.
About Men of the Desert
Men of the Desert is the premier annual charity fashion show and luncheon benefiting Animal
Samaritans, held each year at the Palm Springs Air Museum. Now in its 17th year, the event features real
men from the Coachella Valley community walking the runway alongside their canine companions in a
celebration of style, community, and generosity. In 2025, the event set an all-time attendance record with
more than 500 guests and raised nearly $300,000 in a single afternoon
