MARCHESA resort 2009

Latest collection from

Marchesa

, destined for resort 2009, evokes a luxury trip down the Nile alongside Cleopatra. Antique Egyptian style is the main inspiration with golden embroideries adorning stunning gowns and dresses, all skillfully pleated and draped. The color palette is kept simple (ivory, blush and black) to let the embellishments shine.

Vintage and Asian influenced elegant eveningwear define

Marchesa style

that combines high fashion with an eclectic aesthetic. The label, co-founded by

Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig

, was named after company's muse Marchesa Luisa Casati, a well-known eccentric European style icon.

The two designers met at

Chelsea College of Art and Design in London

and established the Marchesa label in 2004, by pairing their expertise in draping, design, print and embroidery.

The

Marchesa collections

(based in London and New York) are currently available in Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman stores in the United States, Selfridges in London, and special boutiques around the world.