Since 1995, M.A.C cosmetics has reigned supreme over the backstage bedlam at fashion weeks around the globe, usually working around 150 shows each season. Last fall the hyper-creative troop of makeup gurus drew inspiration from a young Mary Tyler Moore at Esteban Cortazar, punk-rock pirates A~? la Johnny Depp at Sass + Bide, Sharon Stone's fierce Casino character at Baby Phat, and Tina Chow-meets-Lara Croft at Matthew Williamson.

We follow along for the ride each season, hovering in the background as masters like Gordon Espinet and Charlotte Tilbury work their magic. What we are left with after each Fashion Week experience are weary feet, a list of new celebrity sightings, and, most of all, a sense of awe at the artistic whirlwind we just witnessed. FV