The backstage manager’s orders were firm.

“OK, ladies! No smiling, no hands on hips. You’re stars! You’re gorgeous! Now get out there!”

Pretty typical pre-show backstage talk, except at the Imitation of Christ show, these directions weren’t being barked at runway-ready models.

They were directed to us – the journalists covering Matt Damhave and Tara Subkoff’s third collection of recycled thrift-shop clothes.

Because in this role-reversal, the well-appointed crowd of models (biggies like Sophie Dahl and Rachel Hunter) and actors (Donovan Leitch) were seated where the press would normally sit.

Where were the writers? Walking down the runway, of course.

At first, it was disconcerting. But whatever – the IOC-clad clan, I must admit, looked pretty damn good in their artfully shoddy vintage dresses and purposely frayed strapless tops and halters.

Still, there’s only so much irony one fashion house can dish out before the joke sours.

Only halfway down the runway, and we were getting even more lip from the emcee: “Move it! You’re ruining the show! This isn’t a game, girls!”

Oh, yeah? Who says?