An empty space… transformed within minutes. The make-up people from MAC are already seated and have started to alter their first pretty and fresh model into something altogether different. Others suddenly pour in. Some of the models, you can tell because they are all tall and very thin, look a bit disoriented, not knowing what exactly to do until they find a friend or recognize the designer who they have been assigned to.

Minutes later, the designers march in. Unlike the models, they know exactly what to do, striding directly towards the hanging poles. They begin to empty their bags, their newest, and perhaps even first, fashion pieces. They hang everything up and create a little niche for themselves. They’re here on a mission…to show their creations to an audience of judges, professors, family and friends. And you can tell from just looking at them, that they are proud. They find their assigned models, who have been previously fitted, and start the process of dressing the models. While some models get fitted, others begin the make-up stage. This takes time…. And some girls complain that the make-up even itches.

The air is hot and laden with nervousness, young energy, vitality. The space is really too small an area for all of the people but it’s typical and instantaneously creates an intimate environment: some on the floor fitting models; others being transformed by the make-up artists; some models have only their underwear on; designers chatting with fellow designers. No one is idle. There’s movement and commotion but it’s all under control. Everyone has a role to play and a goal to achieve.

The young women, a few men, and even three young girls continuously try on and take off clothes. Each model walks for at least two designers and has to know what exactly they have to wear for each, including shoes, bags, hats, and other accessories. Unfortunately, some pieces, due to an error, don’t fit and a change of plan needs to be made… a stressful time for all. But everyone is confident that in the end, it will work out and the show will go on. This is young creativity at its height.

The make-up continues and the results are shocking. This is not your typical make-up, but what’s typical these days for fashion shows? The young people are hardly recognizable. The artists have gone for a “trash” look, the opposite of the traditional “beautiful” look inspired by the mannequins of the 40’s and heavy on the pancake mix. In some cases their lips are painted bright red, in others left white. Splotches of color define their cheeks and eyes, from pinks to greens to everything in between. The trick now is putting on the clothes without ruining the make-up or the designs themselves, a three-person job.

The next step is the hair… and it takes quite a long time. It’s amazing how a simple “messy” look can use so much hair spray, so much poofing, and so much concentration. But it does. Some girls wear hats or other items that must be worked into the hairdos; others are luckier and just have to deal with their hair. But with all of the pulling and tugging, trying on and taking off, it’s clear that everything there: the models, the make-up and hair artists, the helpers, and the designers relish in the moment.

Now it’s time for the finishing touches. And don’t think for a moment that it’s been hours from the time the first model or designer walked into the room. It’s only been a little over an hour. Each designer knows exactly how her or his piece should look. They have a clear idea of the concept they are trying to evoke and work arduously to make that dream a reality.

There is no rhythm or reason to the fashion pieces; each one is as different as its designer, but that makes it all the more interesting. Some pieces are inspired by the 40’s and use woolen stripes and long beads; others find their inspiration in the “pre-chaos theory” where even the smallest difference can make the biggest effect. The famous painter, Joan Miró, serves as inspiration for halter-tops in the shape of a painter’s palette and jeans painted in Miró-like designs with picture frames as backpack accessories. The Barcelona METRO and transportation system serves as a guide for one designer who laminated metro tickets and used them as straps to hold her design together. Children’s crayon drawings inspired another designer; others were lured by the surrealism movement and use fake eggs in their designs.

Some designers preferred neutral colors such as blacks, grays, whites, or creams while others expressed themselves in reds, purples, yellows, greens, and blues. Some leaned towards functionality, practicality, and urbanism, while others were more interested in fantasy, poetry, and nymphs.  One designer based her collection on fairy tales and her model marches on the stage like a tree, complete with leaves and trunks as legs. Some were interested in sportswear and included whistles and keys; others combined feathers, satin, and leather in new ways. One designed a purely evening look, composed of different translucent shades of purple chiffon, with just a touch of sparkle. Others incorporated paint cans on belts, geometrical shapes, vampire-inspired tops, fur, and even a Coco Chanel-type dog.

Before the frenzy really begins, there’s just a bit of time for relaxing, drinking bottled water, smoking a cigarette. The make-up and hair artists’ work is done. The models are ready. The designers have put the final touches on their pieces. The music begins; it’s popular hip-hop. Parents, friends, professionals, and others fill the seats; those that can’t find a seat gather on the periphery. The judge’s table is set up. The microphones are tested and re-tested. Important people, those hosting the event or contributing the prizes, are seated in the front row.  The anticipation builds; the music continues to beat. And the show begins…