Um, we’re feeling a little winded from our first true foray into the big bad fashion world. The night (one of the biggest in New York’s Fashion Week) began as Kanye West and Lil’ Kim arrived to a swarm of crazed photogs. Meanwhile, we hooked up with our intrepid guide Dita Von Teese outside the Armory on Lexington where Marc Jacobs’ fashion show takes place every year.

We got special treatment, walking the red carpet inside with Dita, jostled and blinded by flashbulbs and somewhat disoriented by the time Dita (who was calm and relaxed and perfect, as usual) went to an upfront seat with the other celebrities. You know what’s funny? Sofia Coppola, Vincent Gallo, Kim Gordon, Mischa Barton and Zooey Deschanel sitting on metal risers while throbbing versions of Prince and Michael Jackson tunes echo throughout the cavernous venue. What’s even funnier is 50 Cent and his 600 burly bodyguards trying to find room for themselves in the aisle that separates 50 from Anna Wintour, who was chatting away with US Open three time champion Roger Federer.

The show was a flurry of ethereal, billowy garments that left us feeling psyched about spring (even though it’s still officially late summer). Then it was time for the after-party, conveniently located a few blocks away at the Gramery Park Hotel. These fashion parties are more dramatic and sensational, yet easier to crash, than rock parties. And of course they’re filled with famous people (Winona Ryder, Eva Mendez, the Ashley Olsen, Rufus Wainwright) who mingle about, chatting out in the open while people like Jared Leto spin rock-appropriate tunes (NIN, for example.) Oh, and these parties seem to have ample open bars and no ban on smoking. All we need is a status bag and some chunky-heeled pumps to conquer the Fashion Week thing full-throttle. More tomorrow….

For now: Watch our exclusive video with Dita Von Teese at the show! (RealPlayer required)