Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Day 4 Recap -- Backstage at Zang Toi

Few designers elevate fashion to the height of artistry, glamour and showmanship that Zang Toi does.  The Malaysian designer, who participated in the first Pittsburgh Fashion Week in 2010, has made rich colors and dramatic looks that command applause as they are modeled on the runway his trademark.

His collection for spring 2013 was inspired by the romantic French Riviera and featured breathtaking gowns in soft lavenders, pinks and creams, frosted with shimmering sparkles. 

But no ensemble is complete without hair, makeup and manicures to tie the look together. Here's a glimpse backstage at how it all comes together.

The scene backstage
The final hour or two before a runway show is a flurry of behind-the-scenes activity.  Models arrive, hair is styled, makeup is applied, manicures are completed, garments are steamed and a rehearsal of the runway show is held.  In the midst of it all, media members are navigating the cramped space looking for the perfect photo or a stylist willing to squeeze in a quick interview in between applying eyeshadow and mascara.  For the Zang Toi show, Zoya Nail Polish handled manicures, Eiji Salon NYC styled hair and Amazing Cosmetics completed the makeup.  (Photos by Sara Bauknecht/Post-Gazette)

 

 

A bite to eat, anyone?
Models, stylists and media get little free time during Fashion Week.  Most shows usually have some water, Diet Pepsi (the official drink) or Fiber One bars (the official snack) on hand backstage.  Zang Toi is one of the kind designers who also makes sure something more substantial is available, such as some fruit and sandwiches.  (Thanks, Zang!)

 

 

 

 

Hair that packs drama
The hair style for the show channeled many of the same elements as Zang Toi's creations:  dramatic, yet elegant and not too fussy. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Custom nail polishes by Zoya
The Cleveland-based nail polish producer collaborated with Zang Toi to create a limited edition set of three nail polishes in "ice princess" shades of lilac, pink and yellow. Representatives from Zoya were on hand to talk to media about the Zang Toi-inspired collection, as well as to share tips on color trends for fall and the holidays.

 

 

 

Manicure in the works
A model has the custom Zang Toi-inspired nail polish colors by Zoya applied.  The look included a lavendar shade with a silver French tip.

 

 

 

 

 

Makeup:  Fresh and sophisticated
Amazing Cosmetics came up with a look that was simple, yet stunning, and complemented models' natural beauty.