Lei Chic's New York Fashion Week Diary Part 2

Sexy and the City: Episode 2

Left: A M.A.C makeup artist preps a model backstage for Noon by Noor's spring 2014 show. Right: The finished look. Photos: Summer Shiigi and Women's Wear Daily.

Editor's Note: This is the second installment of a series following stylist Summer Shiigi on her first-ever trip to New York Fashion Week. [Read: Part 1].

Dear Diary,

Today, instead of walking through the front doors of The Studio at Lincoln Center, I take a stroll around the side for a backstage experience with M.A.C Cosmetics at the Noon by Noor show. The tent is smaller than I expect and, naturally, it's chaotic. Models are getting primped as photographers snap shots and dodge out of the way of hustling makeup artists.

Key makeup artist Neil Young compliments the romantic style of Noon by Noor with fresh, glowy makeup – cheeks, noses and jawlines are highlighted with a mix of shimmers and matte bronzers. Hair is kept simple and feminine – locks are lightly curled, then one side is wet, pinned back behind the ear and gently sprayed for a slicked-back appearance. I leave appreciating the little details that go into a great show.

Left: "Here I am hanging outside Lincoln Center before a show, wearing an outfit I bought at Nordstrom, a rope necklace from Florencia Arias, sunnies from Roberta Oaks and my favorite Jeffrey Campbell booties." Right: "I'm a foodie at heart so I had to stop by and check out Serendipity 3. I tried the Salted Caramel Frozen Hot Chocolate and, brain freeze aside, it was the most delicious drink I've ever had!" Photos: Summer Shiigi.

After my peek behind the black curtains, I rush off to see Carmen Marc Valvo's Spring 2014 collection. I love every sheer bit of it – literally! The looks are rife with strategically placed mesh panels and the flawless fits, from swimwear to gowns, perfectly accentuate the body in a sensual, elegant way.

Nothing prepares me for Rebecca Minkoff's runway show, which features not only her Spring 2014 collection, but also a live concert by Janelle Monáe! The energy onstage is electrifying as models strut in Latin-flavored styles that range from tailored jackets to billowy maxis in unexpected fabrics, like perforated jersey. I will never, ever forget this amazing show.

I manage to score a second-row seat for my last show of the night, Mark & Estel, a line known for signature fashion tees and rocker-chic style. This is the most ready-to-wear show I've seen so far with comfy knits and wild cut-out pieces, yet it still feels high fashion thanks to bold accessories, like shackle-inspired silver cuffs and oversized statement necklaces.

It's so hard to sleep with all this excitement. Stay tuned for more backstage access, Brooklyn adventures and a Tiffany & Co. event coming up!

"The lineup at Mark & Estel proves timing is everything. Before the show got stagnant, the designers sent out edgier garments, like this shredded skeleton tunic." Photo: Summer Shiigi.