So you finally said “I do”! After the whirlwind of planning that follows, all eyes will be on you on your big day. The pressure is on to look your absolute best in front of friends and family present at your once-in-a-lifetime occasion!
Just like the red carpet at the Oscars, your wedding gown will dominate the conversation. But with the huge variety of gowns out there, how do you choose the right one? Let’s take a look at some popular gown designs in Malaysia.
Choosing a gown design is not an easy decision, as local designer Carven Ong explains. In a recent interview, he explains that the theme of the wedding, venue, personal taste on style cut as well as material used are the main concerns in screening for wedding gowns.
Local designer Keith Kee also advises brides-to-be to pay attention on cutting, shape, silhouette and concept details. He said that shape is the most important aspect as well as getting comfortable in it.
Once you decide on your gown style, the only decision left is whether to buy, rent or create a design of your own. Here are a few wedding gown styles that serve as your reference:
1. Ballgown
The traditional “fairy tale” dress! A fitted bodice with flares at the waist and full skirt. Suited for most body types, and works especially well for pear-shaped body types, considering that the skirt hides the lower body. However, a ballgown is not good for petites because you might drown in the gown.
Ballgown wedding dress worn by Ella Chen, a member of the Taiwanese Girl Group S.H.E. Source
2. A-Line & Modified A-Line
This gown has a fitted bodice through the waist and flows out to the ground, resembling the outline of an uppercase “A”. The modified A-line is similar, but the fitted bodice goes right up to the hips and gradually flares to the hem. The skirt fits closer to the body than the traditional A-line. The good news is that these styles are ideal for all body types!
Worn by Vivian Hsu, a Taiwanese singer, actress, model. Source
3. Mermaid & Trumpet
The gown is fitted on the body from the chest to the knee then flares out. The difference between mermaid and trumpet is that the trumpet gown flares mid-thigh. The cut is between a modified A-line and a mermaid cut. This style is ideal for small waists such as hourglass and petites. Plus sizes might not opt for this option as this cut accentuates the stomach and hip area.
Worn by Belinda Chee, a Malaysian TV Host, Model, Actress and Voice Over Talent. Source
4. Sheath
This style uses a narrow shape that flows straight down from the neckline to the hem, forming a deep “V”. This style is ideal for lean frames. Hourglass body types should consider the sheath if you want to show off your curves. Pears are not recommended as it will accentuate extra inches and can be unflattering.
Worn by actress and film maker, Angelina Jolie. Source
5. Tea-length and Mini
Tea-length skirts fall in between the ankle and the knee which is ideal for all body types. The skirt end above knee length for the mini, so may not be ideal for plus sizes.
Worn by Penny Jiang, wife to Taiwanese singer and song-writer, David Tao. Source
6. Hijab
For a Muslim wedding, the ballgown and mermaid styles form the main inspiration for Hijab designs, with the addition of a headscarf.
Worn by Dato Siti Nurhaliza, a Malaysian singer, songwriter, record producer, television presenter and businesswoman. Source
The list above is by no means definitive. After all, gown designers are always trying out new variations, so plenty of scouting and testing will be required before you finally make your decision.
“Always try on as many gowns as possible. The envisaged gown from your childhood dreams may not be the one that will flatter you most. Only bring those whose opinions you value and trust the most for fittings to avoid getting more confused in the end,” said bridalwear designer, Celest Thoi in a 2012 interview.
“Always try on as many gowns as possible. The envisaged gown from your childhood dreams may not be the one that will flatter you most. Only bring those whose opinions you value and trust the most for fittings to avoid getting more confused in the end.” – Celest Thoi
What people are saying about local gown designers
The Recommend.my community reviews their favourite gown designers:
Pretty-in–White
“I got my wedding dress designed and customized in Pretty in White – Louisa did a wonderful, wonderful job. The dress turned out exactly what I had in mind, a wonderful mixture of lace and beads. I felt like a real bride that day!” – Jes Min Lua
Edmund Goh – Designer Gowns
“Great designer of gowns, he works with you to design that unique and special gown. His clientele consist of some well-known names in the Tattler crowd. Besides, gowns, he also designs well cut suits, jackets, dresses and even outfits for the office. He designed my wedding and evening gowns. I was extremely happy with all the gowns which were exquisite. He even turned up early in the morning of my wedding and just before the wedding dinner to ensure my gowns fit perfectly before I stepped out for my big day – now that is what I call excellent service!” – Sharon Ko
Yes I Do
“Got my made-to-measure wedding gown from Yes I Do, it was value for money, delivered on time, good quality and also got advice and recommendations based on my body and preferences. Professional service and highly recommended.” – yenmeileng
