Established in 2004 by British designers Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig, Marchesa has injected traditional glamour and modern femininity into elegant eveningwear dresses. After meeting at London’s Chelsea College of Art and Design, their combined expertise in costume and embroidery design helped cultivate their renowned sultry silhouettes. With the label named after the designers’ muse, Marchesa Luisa Casati, a 19th century European heiress and progressive style icon, the brand represents classic beauty and original flair. Devoted Marchesa followers include celebrity fans such as pop princess Rihanna, Academy Award-winning actress Sandra Bullock and Nichole Richie, who requested a custom-made wedding gown in 2010. In 2006, the diffusion line, Notte by Marchesa, was launched. This unique second-line offering of affordable glamour ranges from Far East-inspired ruffled silk skirts to playful strapless lace dresses with dramatic bows.