As Tabs likes to say, “In modeling, one day you’re in; the next, you’re out.” (Heidi Klum borrowed the phrase from him.) I’m not sure if you knew this about cats, but they have their own labor union, and it’s unique among labor unions because it actually precludes any kind of work. Yep, Tabs had to get a waiver from his union boss to start modeling professionally. Let me tell you, it was a BIG to do.
This week, in Part 1 of a rare exclusive interview, Tabs opened up to me about his plans for the future and how they relate to kitty modeling and his work on Makeup and Beauty Blog.
You see, Tabs may be “just a cat,” but he’s also keenly aware of how competitive the whole kitty modeling niche has become. There are literally hundreds of other four-legged models/blog mascots nipping at his heels.
KAREN: So tell me, Tabs, do you worry about your place among the top kitty models of all time? In other words, do you think about your legacy?
TABS: Of course I do. I would be lying if I said I didn’t. I want to leave behind a body of work that up-and-coming kitty models can look to for inspiration.
KAREN: Does that mean you think about retirement?
TABS: Don’t be ridiculous. Next question.
KAREN: Okay, um, what’s been your favorite campaign of all time?
TABS: Ooh, that’s a tough one… I don’t know, I’ve done hundreds so it changes all the time, but maybe MAC Pret-a-Papier. I had a blast on that job. Or NARS Angelika. We did a lot of wirework for that one. Oh, and of course, Avatar and Smashbox Masquerade.
Stay tuned in the coming weeks for Part 2 of this exclusive interview with Tabs. In the meantime, here’s a look at his portfolio of recent jobs…
Who is Tabs the Cat? About three years ago I befriended a stray, flea-bitten tabby cat with a bad case of worms. I could see he’d fallen on hard times, but his profound knowledge of high fashion and department store cosmetics led me to believe that he was more than meets the eye. We became fast friends, and now he’s actually my boss (and a successful kitty model). 🙂
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addicts,
Karen and Tabs
P.S. Wow! Can you believe we’re into the triple digits for Sundays with Tabs? Dayum, that cat keeps busy. 🙂
Emily says
OMG! I am a huge fan Mr. Tabs! The pret-a-papier campaign is my favorite! lmao
Tracy says
The Tarte Chubby Cheek Tint add really speaks to me since I also have chubby cheeks lol! Love that blush shade on you Tabs. I do think the Pret a Papier was inspirational! Bravo Tabs!
amy says
The chubby cheek tint suits Tabs very much!
Rads says
Tarte Chubby Cheek Tint 😀 😀 Tabs is the best!!
Amber says
I bow to your Photoshop skills.
Vijaya says
Tabs made my Sunday!
kana says
Awww, I love the history of Mr. Tabs!! It’s nice to know he found himself a good assistant! 🙂 I am a huge fan of your work, and will continue to follow.
Makeup Morsels says
heheh I love The Pouncing Palette! I would pounce on that right away too 🙂
Claudenka says
i’ve been missing Mr. Tabs lately so this post made my day 🙂
Peachesandblush.com says
ROFLMAO at the tarte chubby cheek tinte with tabs photo…but i have chubby cheeks (the kind which annoying aunts come and pull ) , so i would want tht!!
mkdallas says
The Pouncing Palette and the Chubby Cheek Tint are so dang cute I had to scream “SQUEEE!” I would like to nom, nom, nom on those fat pink cheeks.
Erin says
Wow Tabs looks great in the Viva Glam campaign! Also, if UD made a “Pouncing Palette”, you know i’d snap that up STAT.
Jenn says
I’ve never been much of a cat person until I got my current dog a few years ago — who loves nothing more than to cuddle and cavort with kitties; it’s very strange. I began to “tolerate” her play-dates with felines and under the influence of those playmates as well as your posts re: Tabs, I’m beginning to be a bit of a feline fan. <3
gio says
I love Tabs and his work! The cheek tint looks great on him! 🙂
Instant Karma (formerly L) says
LOL the Clarisonic fur brush! I should buy one of them before spring shedding season starts…
Tessa says
I NEED that Viva Glam Tabs lipstick! 🙂
Alka says
Oh Tabs – I heart you. Thanks for making me smile. 🙂
Ariel says
“He’s actually my boss” Haha you crack me up
Nina says
Tabs and Clarisonic FTW!
DalaLuz says
Mr Tabbs, you are so dreamy… You’re just too cute to cuddle. Please tell me, how do you get those perfect whiskers?
Sarah says
Tabs, I remain a faithful fan of yours!
BeckBeck says
I would so buy Viva Glam Tabs.
Rebecca says
I love the Pouncing Palette! And as another cat owner, I really enjoy your posts about Tabs.