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Famous for sleek silhouettes and classic cuts, Mark Badgley and James Mischka dress today's brides in high Hollywood style.

Q: When you founded your company, Badgley Mischka, in 1988, you focused on glamorous looks for day and evening. What inspired your transition into bridal?
A: As we worked with clients on trunk shows for our couture collection, we fielded constant requests for evening gowns in various shades of white that would be suitable for weddings. At the time, the wedding world was overrun with full, princess pouf dresses so it seemed like a natural step to create bridal designs that were more in step with eveningwear trends.

Q: Your sophisticated, retro Hollywood styles have had a huge impact on the bridal industry. How is this look reflected in your line this season?
A: We have always been inspired by the elegance of the 1930s and 1940s, when women really dressed to the nines and glamour ruled the day. To convey this feeling, we’ve concentrated on both the materials and the subtle details. For example, most of our beading is inspired by vintage jewelry. It’s lightly distressed so it doesn’t look brand-new; juxtaposed against modern yet timeless fabrics, like satin chiffon and gazar, the overall effect has tremendous appeal for sophisticated brides.

Q: Your successful bridesmaid collection debuted on the runway in October 2006. How does a bride help her maids find the most flattering styles?
A: Our goal is to create designs for bridesmaids that they would truly want to wear again. The inspiration for our gowns comes directly from our eveningwear collection, in fabrics such as satin, taffeta and chiffon and tulle over charmeuse, with a wide selection of necklines, skirts and colors. We are delighted when a bride chooses a theme or color but allows each bridesmaid to select a dress that best flatters her body type and personal style. For her nuptials to Tony Parker last summer, Eva Longoria chose a gorgeous rose-red palette of satin and silk chiffon and we designed a different dress for each girl. Unified by the color, fabric and vintage silver beading, the impact was beautiful—while at the same time, each bridesmaid was wearing something that suited her body and look.

Q: Any advice for brides embarking on their search for the perfect gown?
A: It is imperative to go into the process with an open mind, take your time and try on as many styles of dresses as possible: strapless, sleeves and sleeveless, full skirt or sleek. A petite bride should avoid overly full skirts, which tend to swallow her frame. She should choose a gentle A-line that provides volume in a more flattering way. If you are on the taller end of the spectrum, make sure the hemline is long enough, especially as you walk and the gown moves. Never judge a dress by how it looks on the hanger. Try it on; it may be the gown of your dreams.

From left:

TULLE LOVE Strapless silk satin gown with a tulle-edged neckline, full tulle skirt and beaded bustle detail, about $3,950. All gowns by Badgley Mischka Bride; for store listings, go to badgleymischkabride.com.

GLAMOUR GIRL Ivory silk crepe gown with jeweled straps and beaded accents on bodice, about $5,930.

FAB FLAIR Pearl-colored silk organza trumpet gown with pleated skirt and jeweled accents, about $5,710.

The Duo Divulges

• Go for glamour, but strike a balance. If your dress is beaded, opt for understated jewelry. A simple dress may cry out for a beaded veil with dramatic eye makeup.
• Pre-wedding stress may make a bride’s weight fluctuate. So have fittings up until the week of the wedding; to look amazing, the right fit is crucial.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with subtle color for your gown. White is classic but superpale butters and complexion pinks are flattering on most women and offer a nice, modern touch.

Visit our Wedding Dress Gallery to find more Badgley Mischka gowns.