Behind the scenes at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week / Lobby tour

NEW YORK -- Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week is a marathon of runway shows and presentations that some days runs from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.  But what do media and buyers do when they're not eyeing the latest trends?

The lobby offers an assortment of activities and lounges for guests to relax and recharge (literally, in regards to their phones and laptops) in between shows.  This season, the lobby received a needed makeover.  Its new layout provides more seating areas and more outlets and maximizes space for sponsors to promote their products and services with two levels.

Here's a behind-the-scenes look (photos by Sara Bauknecht/Post-Gazette) ...

The Style Network is the official TV partner of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Its lounge in the lobby provides a place to unwind, as well as snag a free Style Network lint roller.

 

Models aren't the only ones who can look glamorous at Fashion Week. Guests can sign up to freshen up their 'do at the Tresseme hair salon.

 

Need a caffeine pick-me-up? Head to the coffee bar!

 

Guests can send a note home from Fashion Week, thanks to Papyrus. Featured in the cases are the official Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week greeting cards.

 

Maybelline is the official makeup sponsor of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. At its station, guests can learn about pieces from its collection. Plus, they can visit the makeup vending machine for a free beauty product.

 

There is no shortage of reading material on hand to keep guests occupied in between events. The reading wall offers the latest issues of The Daily Front Row, Women's Wear Daily and more.

 

What would Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week be without a couple of its namesake cars on hand?

 

Fashion Week is draining -- for people and their electronics. Several charging stations are set up under the tents where guests can get give their phones, tablets and laptops a boost.

 

When people RSVP to attend a show, they receive an email with a confirmation number and a barcode. At the check-in stations, they can type in their number or scan their barcode to get their tickets, which look like a store receipt.

 

Finding time to eat during Fashion Week can be tricky. The Fashion Cafe offers a limited menu of soups, sandwiches, salads and pastries to help.