Badgley Mischka stayed true to form Wednesday night by bringing classic Hollywood glamour back to the runway. The show’s landscape, reminiscent of a moonlit walk on a remote island, set the mood for a romantic collection. The duo’s form-fitting gowns were elegant and fresh, while their use of materials like lace and silk brought us back to a 1930s-era Jean Harlow.

The line was, in a word, sexy. Simple numbers like a black, strapless, mermaid-cut gown with a pleated back seemed both demure and brash, while lace evening dresses in grays and off-whites exuded femininity. Perhaps the prize for best in show went to a stunning silver jacket with a tie waist, adorned with terra-cotta flowers and silver sequins on the neck and sleeves. Second place was a black-and-bronze chiffon-and-tulle dress with lace paneling. Throughout the show, there were sequins, braided belts, collarless jackets, and mix-and-match fabrics. We’ll certainly be seeing some of these designs again on Oscar night.

In contrast to the dramatic nuances of the Badgley Mischka collection, Vivi enne Tam’s new line had undertones that were fun and flirty. Cruising was the premise for her Wednesday night show at Bryant Park. The show kicked off with simple pieces such as a red-and-white striped cropped blazer and miniskirt but quickly veered toward colorful and bold. Long, fluid dresses adorned with orchids and lilies and knee-length crochet numbers added to the tropical chic mood. While many of her pieces were heavily patterned, solids seemed to be Ms. Tam’s strong point. The highlight was a gorgeous mid-length black coat sans collar with a eyelets and a tie waist. By and large, the collection was picturesque but packed with just a few too many ideas.