New York, NY – On Friday morning, hundreds of dolled up women and a sprinkling of simple-chic men accessorized 5th avenue with their individual styles and dashing smiles. What these fashionistas had in common was remarkable determination and intensely chattering teeth.

October 23rd was Henri Bendel’s Open-See Event, giving designers of cosmetics, skin care, fragrance, gifts, jewelry, handbags, hats, hair accessories, and belts the chance to show their collections in the glamorous store on fifth Ave and 57th street. Up and coming designers of a range of ages – early twenties to early seventies, form the looks of it – began lining up outside of the golden rimmed doors at four o’clock in the morning. It was as if Willy Wonka had come to real life, and a herd of women were waiting at the gate in hopes of a golden ticket. Their ticket would take them to designer heaven.

Heads turned as passersby slowed there pace to glance at these glowing, shivering beauties, trudging slowly forward with suitcases, briefcases, and oversized shopping bags. Of course, their luggage was filled with their own collections of jewelry or fashion accessories. It was quite a sight to see, but where was the press?

“Yes, of course the press talk about this event,” said the man guarding the door, aloof to the anxious ladies before him. “They publicize it beforehand,” he said. But where were they now?

Accompanying a friend and huddling close for body heat, I decided to take some video, and record all that I was seeing. I was blown away by these people who had the passion to sit at their sowing machines, get sticky with glue guns, and hunch over their jewels with pliers to create their collections in their spare time. Not to mention their brave effort at standing outside at wee hours on a frigid fall day, in short dresses, tights, and high-heels. They put out quite the effort for something that is not even a full time career for most.

This is the story of regular men and women, with talent and a lot of drive, shining and smiling and filled with hopes, even a year into a bad recession. These are the people that make New York the exciting city it is, because they are feeding it with energy.

Nine o’clock hit, and a small crew of Henri Bendel employees trotted out the double doors and scanned the line like soldiers. They called on the makers of certain crafts, and swept the front of the line inside the gargantuan store. The tired crowd grew chipper, and the designers sent a current of electric energy into the New York morning. Soon they will also be sending New York new looks, new accessories, and a new fashion scene.

Look for winners in Henri Bendel, 5th Avenue between 56th and 57th, this spring.