New York Fashion Week Spring 2012 backstage beauty: One show, two (or more!) beauty looks was the trend at Alexander Wang, Michael Kors, Anna Sui and more

Michael Kors After getting over the shock of finding zero bronzing powders backstage, we marvelled at the perfect arcs of pigment painted just under the brows by Dick Page. “There’s a ‘60s influence, but it’s not too literal,” said the makeup artist, who painted curved lines in peacock blue on blondes while brunettes received a green swoop.

Ruffian Most models received a swipe of “Ruffian Naked,” a creamy beige lipstick that’s part of the label’s collaboration with M.A.C. But a select few had crimson mouths. “We’re applying ‘Ruffian Red’ on the three redheads in the show. We thought the surprise would be fun,” explained makeup artist James Kaliardos. Brian Wolk, one half of the design team who made a cameo backstage, had another explanation for the beauty move: “We love red on red.”

Anna Sui The pastel toupees hairstylist Garren affixed to the tops of models heads were matched with the striking eye makeup that was Pat McGrath’s take on the punk-meets-‘60s theme.

Oscar de la Renta Hot pink, aqua and yellow hair extensions were woven into the Breakfast at Tiffany’s-esque beehives masterminded by Orlando Pita. His assistant ran around with a list to keep track of which model received which shade, a decision determined by the colours in the collection.

Diane von Furstenberg Unlike the the uniform makeup, hair took a different direction with a focus on playing up individuality, hence the variety of parts (centre and side) and textures (wavy, straight and one lone curly-haried cat walker). It was a decision that actually came about by accident: when Diane von Furstenberg liked all four different hair tests on four different girls, she asked Orlando Pita to make it happen.