Lei Chic's New York Fashion Week Diary Part 1

Sexy and the City: Episode 1

Editor's Note: This is the first installment of a series following stylist Summer Shiigi on her first-ever trip to New York Fashion Week.

Dear Diary,

After a long flight and a lifetime of dreaming, I'm finally here in New York City! It's been a whirlwind of a day. I dash from the airport to the Marriott Marquis in a New York minute, but pause for a Hawaiian second to revel in the fact that I'm in the middle of Times Square. After dropping luggage in the room, I'm back in a taxi and speed off to Lincoln Center. As I get closer, the fashion gets bolder, like I'm crossing into some alternate universe of pure style. It's amazing!

Left: "While in a cab heading downtown, I caught this glimpse of the Empire State Building in all its glory." Right: "Belvedere Castle sits in the middle of Central Park, just above Turtle Pond – a pleasant contrast the bustling city." Photos: Summer Shiigi.

With only a few minutes to spare, I rush into my first show. Hello, BCBG Max Azria! The runway is white, the seats are filled with celebrities and magazine editors, and the photographers are lined up in rows. The Resort 2014 looks are very clean with a lot of solid white, slate grey and modern shapes. I love the loose shifts and the androgyny of the trousers and pantsuits. The airiness of the collection really captures a luxurious resort feeling.

I enjoy a quick and delicious sandwich and coffee from 'Wichcraft. Then, it's off to Tadashi Shoji's Spring 2014 show. He's already a favorite designer of mine and my high expectations were surpassed in moments. Shoji plays with a mix of sheer fabrics, printed plaids and lace, all in one collection. The gowns are whimsical, ultra-feminine and simply gorgeous. This is my favorite show of the day.

The last show is by Desigual. While most runways are serious business, Desigual displays a refreshing flirty and playful side. The music is remixed oldies and the models dance their way down the runway blowing kisses to the crowd. The collection is deeply inspired by mod '70s with loud prints in bold colors. As much as I love color, I really adore the mod black-and-white pieces the most.

With three shows under my belt, I use the remainder of the day to explore Times Square and catch up on some much-needed sleep before day two begins.

"I got turned around in Times Square, distracted by all the bright lights and billboards. Plus, at 5'1", navigating streets overflowing with taxis, people, vendors and cyclists 24/7 was a challenge!" Photo: Summer Shiigi.