I'm a Curve Model, and here's what the backstage experience is like at NYFW with the brand that truly understands it.

      You’re not mistaken—the representation of curves on the runway is significantly different than what it used to be in previous years. Nevertheless, I'm thankful for every opportunity I get to showcase my talents, as each experience truly feels like a gift. I've participated in a runway or two, and one of the aspects I cherish most is that it gives me the same exhilarating rush I used to experience during my musical theater days. You step out, and then poof—it’s over! It’s two minutes of pure energy, followed by retreating backstage to catch my breath. I thought I’d give you a behind-the-scenes look at what it really entails to prepare for the Christian Siriano S/S 26 show in New York.

      (Image credit: Getty Images)

      10 a.m.: Coffee is essential. My call time was set for 12:30, which felt like a huge blessing. A diva (that’s me) can't start her day without coffee, so I woke up and ordered a quad-shot iced almond latte from Butler. As an Australian, I take pride in our coffee culture, and that quad shot was crucial fuel for the day ahead.

      12:15 p.m.: Off to Herald Square. I took the subway to Macy's in Herald Square, where the runway was located. Whenever I hear "Herald Square," the song "Give My Regards to Broadway" immediately comes to mind—quite fitting for a theater kid pursuing her Broadway dreams on a fashion runway. During fashion week, the subway is definitely the quickest way to get around with the streets in complete gridlock.

      12:30 p.m.: Check-in time. Upon arriving, I checked in, located my dressing area, and was quickly taken to hair.

      There's something surreal about seeing your name on that little card. It never gets old.

      1 p.m.: Hair time with Lacy Redway. The fabulous Lacy Redway was leading the hair team. Her idea was a "liquid wave"—effortless yet structured, as if your hair is flowing even when you're standing still. I was sitting across from a friend, giving me a perfect view of the organized chaos at the hair station. Watching a skilled team work in harmony is fascinating.

      1:45 p.m.: A surprise facial. After my hair appointment, I was fortunate to receive a facial from the team at Borghese Roma. They introduced me to their products (including a serum I could take home), and the experience was surprisingly soothing amidst the hustle. These moments of calm are invaluable during fashion week.

      2:30 p.m.: Rehearsal preparation (two hours until showtime). Just before our rehearsal, a quick base of makeup was applied, and I went in search of my shoes for the practice run.

      Pro tip: Always rehearse in the shoes you're going to wear. If they pinch, slip, or slide, it’s crucial to find out so you can use hair spray for grip, tape blister-prone spots, or add gel insoles. There’s nothing worse than discovering your shoes are torturous mid-walk.

      3 p.m.: Back for makeup (1.5 hours until showtime). I returned to the chair for final touches from the talented Gilbert Soliz.

      The look: sculpted, glowing skin with a bold lip. Watching your reflection transform in that chair feels like putting on armor before battle, but prettier.

      3:45 p.m.: Fueling up (45 minutes before showtime). By this point, I was starving. Fashion week days can stretch over six hours from call to close, so eating is crucial. Sometimes, you're literally racing to the next venue. I even witnessed a few models sprinting full speed to reach the Sergio Hudson show after ours. The hustle is real.

      4:45 p.m.: Dressing time (15 minutes past showtime). Finally, it was time to get dressed and have Christian himself come by for last-minute adjustments.

      That moment when the designer personally fits you before the runway is nerve-wracking yet incredibly special.

      5:30 p.m.: Showtime (one hour past call time). Shows during fashion week rarely start on time—it's part of the charm. We were waiting for a special guest to be seated, and then, like clockwork, Coco Rocha opened the show.

      (Image credit: Getty Images)

      By the time she was changing into her closing look, I was stepping out onto the runway. Walking past icons like Oprah and Lizzo? I could have happily remained out there for ten minutes. The energy in that room was electric.

      Post-show: Glamorous subway ride. After the show, I hopped on the subway back to my hotel—all glammed up—before meeting my boyfriend downtown for dinner at a new place called Eel Bar. Highly recommend it if you’re looking for something unique in the city.

      Nightcap at the Bowery. Even though I was exhausted, I decided to grab a quick nightcap