Mark Badgley and James Mischka have been hailed by Vogue as one of the "Top 10 American Designers" and as the darlings of the Hollywood set.
Mark Badgley and James Mischka have been hailed by Vogue as one of the "Top 10 American Designers" and as the darlings of the Hollywood set.
The design duo has made their mark over the past two decades with glamorous, stylish and wearable evening wear and accessories.
Mark and James joined forces in 1988 and have captivated the fashion press and prominent retailers around the world with their sophisticated style that caters to a younger, more modern couture customer, without forsaking women of any age.
Timeless designs
They have remained true to their design philosophy and the consistent integrity of their collections has pushed them to the forefront of fashion. Their designs appeal to a range of fashionable women, including celebrities like Madonna, Catherine Zeta Jones, Jennifer Lopez, Sharon Stone, Jennifer Garner and Julia Roberts.
"Our style harks back to the glamorous Hollywood of the Forties" say Mischka. “The Badgley Mischka signature style is simple, streamlined and thoroughly elegant. Our designs are constructed of the finest fabrics and superior craftsmanship.”
Says Badgley: "We like to keep things effortless. It's fabulous if you can spend hours getting ready, but a woman should also be able to bring a dress to work and change there for an evening out."
Design duo
There is a unique synergy between the talented pair, who met while studying at Parsons School of Design in New York. They share a similar aesthetic about clothes and the way people dress. Both men spent time designing for leading names - Badgley for Donna Karan; Mischka, the men's collection for WilliWear WilliSmith- before starting their own line.
In 1993, after a quick rise to fashion fame, Badgley Mischka sought financial support to elevate their company to the next level. Escada joined forces with the then up-and-coming design team. With solid financial backing, Badgley Mischka built a successful global business and expanded into new areas.
In October 2004, Candies, Inc., now, Iconix Brand Group, Inc., acquired the Badgley Mischka brand from its parent company, Escada. With Iconix’s financial and marketing support, the Badgley Mischka label has flourished to the next level and become a true lifestyle brand.
Badgley Mischka is sold in the most prestigious stores in the world including Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue.