Backstage at Bottega Veneta

Its always been a dream of mine to work backstage at NY Fashion Week. So I was a little heartbroken with the start of school that I wouldn't get my oportunity this year.

But my fashion guardian angel must have been looking down on me, because my dream came true and in a big way.

On September 12, I had the opportunity to be a dresser for a fashion show. But not just any fashion show, a Bottega Veneta fashion show!! The fashion show was part of a luncheon for the Womens Center at North Shore University Hospital and was hosted by the Americana Manhasset. (Long Islands equivalent of Fifth Avenue or Rodeo Drive.)

Backstage was all the crazy I heard it would be, and then some. All of us volunteers arrived at about 9 in the morning and soon the day unfolded before us. From the arrival of the models, to the arrival of the Fall/Winter 2008 collection that the models would be wearing, from hair and makeup to the practice walks. The show wasn't until 1 o'clock in the afternoon, so there was alot of time to sit back and just take it all in.

The crazy really didnt begin until about 15 minutes before the show started, when the models were all finished in hair and makeup and made a mad dash for the racks to get dressed for the show. Oh and if you thought backstage dressing areas looked small and cramped, THEY ARE! This is when I finally got to meet the model I would be dressing. Up until that point I only knew her name was Maria, from her model card. (I was to find out later she was the Maria Fuema!) We chatted while we got her ready for the show and she told me of all the shows she did for Fashion Week from Herve Leger to Chris Benz. I was in awe. Within minutes, outfits where in place, final touches were made, and the models lined up to start the show.

As I watched the models walk down the runway from backstage to Lupe Fiasco's "Superstar," I really had to pinch myself. I couldn't believe that one of my dreams was actually becoming a reality.

The show was soon over, and all the models quickly got back into their own clothing and were off back to the city. All the clothing was placed back into their garment bags and my day was over.

The weather that day was rainy and gross. But even still, I was on the most natural high ever. It was an experience I'll never forget, and one I hope to repeat soon!