Badgley Mischka's Modern Take on Classic Hollywood Glamour

To the backdrop of a dark alley, streetlights illuminated to that urban dingy orange hue, smoke visibly steaming from nearby city chimneys, transplanted from a scene in the 1950 movie "All About Eve" came some of the most glamorous looks for fall 2011, presented by Badgley Mischka in New York on Tuesday, Feb. 15.

 

"We were inspired by the great party scenes of a lot of these movies that we watch, so we're into a very chic, put together look," said James Mischka after the show. Classic Hollywood films, such as "Dark Victory," "All About Eve," and "The Women" inspired the great collection which significantly varied in style and color from one look to the next, giving every type of woman something to vie for this fall, and all with great flair.

With long leather gloves and veiled headpieces, there was a distinct sense of mystery and seduction which could be described as the "all knowing sophistication of the leading lady," if program notes were any clue. 

 

Black was a key element in purveying this intuition with chiffon sleeves, sporadic sparkles and rhinestones aplenty. The dark shade has made its way back this season and "black is more powerful and beautiful than ever," according to Mark Badgley.

Long gowns and dresses were the core of the collection but pieces from the contemporary Mark + James line were just as alluring. Through artistically rippled jersey with a floral design and photon sequined tops and skirts, nothing was short of fabulous, even the more moderately priced line is more polished this season.

"We've never been about office clothes. Gowns are what our customer comes to us for," said Badgley. And the company's new advertising face Rumer Willis along with Kelly Osbourne would agree as they shared their favorite red carpet worthy gowns after the show.

"We find that the woman wants a lot of look and a lot of quality no matter what price point she's shopping at. And that's what we tried to do," said the duo. With all outerwear, accessories, bags, shoes and even timepieces designed in-house, Badgley Mischka bring classic glamour for fall from head to toe.