Pictures courtesy of Designer Bridal Room.

This line is clearly for the elegant woman who knows how to have fun in the classiest way possible. It’s vintage and unique and perhaps just a little bit eccentric, yet so sensual and feminine.

Notice how the light fabric keeps it all flirty – totally unexpected with such demure designs. And how can you not like the layers and layers of alluring lace ;)

This one is definitely Editor’s Pick! I just can’t get over the intricate beading – that is truly a labour of love! Reminds me of the glamorous dresses of the 1920s… What do you think, ladies?

Find your dream gown at Designer Bridal Room. Just pop by their website or LWB page for more information xoxo

Give the celebrities a sexy-legged run for their money. Picture courtesy of http://www.fropki.com

No, we’re not talking about opera singers or violent TV shows. The Soprano XLi – the fabulous new creation of Soprano Laser Hair Removal – is now available at Face Factors Clinic!

The innovative laser hair removal technique is an effective and permanent solution that helps to get rid of facial and body hair with a quick, easy, and relatively painless procedure. Finally, you can say goodbye to your usual painful hair removal methods. The Soprano XLi also allows you to enjoy longer stretches between treatments compared to other alternatives such as waxing, shaving, or electrolysis – perfect for those living in the fast lane.

Picture courtesy of www.beautyonline.net.cn

The technology comprises of both SHR (Super Hair Removal) mode for “in-motion” hair removal and HR mode, a conventional diode laser mode. The SHR mode protects the epidermis by providing practically pain-free, no-fuss treatment. It is made suitable for all, and covers every aspect of skin and hair types, even hair colour!

Best of all, it’s super quick – which means you can even pop by for a lunchtime appointment. Talk about convenient ;)

The Face Factors Clinic offers a range of services ranging from advanced aesthetic and anti-aging solutions to unique body treatments as well as hand and nail therapies. All services offered are medically safe, effective and world recognized. For more information, visit their Facebook page or check them out in our LWB.

From L to R: Marchesa, Vivienne Westwood Gold Label , Lela Rose

If yesterday’s post on trends for 2012 got you excited about your gown shopping, then today’s post should have you literally snapping out your credit card! Now we all know that twice a year (July and December), the world goes on sale. And none more so than one of my favourite online stores, Net-A-Porter.com. I just so happened to have a peek at their wedding sale and it is amazing! I might not be getting married at the moment but even I feel like buying a couple (haha!). Here are my favourite picks from the lot and I’ve taken the liberty of roughly converting the prices to USD:

Marchesa
Simple, sleek and the ruffle gives it that classic Marchesa touch. If you’re not familiar with the brand Marchesa (my fave brand atm), it’s worn by many A-list celebs and known for their detailing and feminine designs. Click here to view.
Price: USD 2560

Vivienne Westwood Gold Label
Remember when SJP donned this in the first Sex and the City movie? I swear this is a similar version to the one she wore! Chic, glam and stylish – how can you not love this gown? And its price tag…
Price: USD 1768

Lela Rose
For the traditional bride, this Lela Rose gown is a great option. You can’t see it in the pic above but there is an embroidered floral pattern on the dress that is subtle but gives it an added shimmer up close.
Price: USD 3434

From L to R: Temperley London (two gowns) and Alberta Ferretti

Temperley London (1)
If you’ve been addicted watching Downton Abbey like me, then this number might just remind you of the hit show (plus Mathew and Mary). This ivory stretch-silk and tulle gown will ensure you’re the perfect vintage bride. And who could say no to Temperley!
Price: USD 2375

Temperley London (2)
Do me a favour and click on the link to check out this gown up close because it wins on the detailing. Embellished with crystals, this silk chiffon gown is said to flatter any silhouette.
Price: USD 1100

Alberta Ferretti
A little more pricey than the rest, to me this gown is not only flattering to the figure but I love the layers and raw edging used to give it that fashionista touch.
Price: USD 3200

From L to R: Antonio Berardi, Jason Wu, Halston Heritage

Antonio Berardi
This crepe and ruched chiffon gown is so simple yet so chic! For some reason I envision a bride who’s a career woman wearing this (don’t ask me why!). Add some jewelry to the mix and I think you have an extremely elegant gown. The price is also really reasonable if I may say…
Price: USD 1421

Jason Wu
A little bit of a bohemian, chilled-out vibe to this silk-chiffon skirt and top by the Wu man. Great if you’re having that destination wedding by the sea or in some beautiful castle in the South of France… ok, daydreaming!
Price: USD 1215

Halston Heritage
I love Halston full stop. Sexy, classic and feminine at the same time, this gown will add a touch of glamour to any bride. And it’s a steal (again, if you ask me!)
Price: USD 485

Hard to pick just one, right? x

Illusion Necklines

Lusan Mandongus, Lela Rose

No, we’re not referring to any magic tricks here! Finding the right balance between sexy and sophisticated can be a challenge—so here’s a tip from us to you: opt for an illusion neckline, which combines a skin-baring bodice with a sheer fabric overlay extending from the bust to the collar.

An illusion neckline can soften the shoulders and overall feel. Oozing femininity and sophistication, the use of a sheer fabric over the neckline draws the eye to your décolletage.

If you’re searching for a subtly sexy and fashion-forward alternative to strapless necklines, these are the dresses for you.

Sheath

Anne Bowen, Carolina Herrera

The 90s have come and gone but sheath is here to stay! It’s hard to go wrong with sheath, really. What I love about this fabric is the fact that even though it doesn’t scream bridal, you can’t help but be spellbound by its sheer simplicity and chicness.

Also, this versatile fabric can help create a defined, feminine silhouette, suitable where elegance and grace are the order of the day.  Oh and did I forget to mention that sheath can be tailored to look extremely flattering on every body type? That’s got to be a huge plus point!

Short

Marchesa

‘Tis the season to flaunt those toned pins, ladies! Some brides cringe at the notion of donning a short dress on their big day. But if you’re planning to go off to a tropical island or have a casual, low-key ceremony, why not opt for this fun and flirty look?

Short wedding dresses can be quite tricky to choose as one wrong move will end up making you look more like a bridesmaid. And that’s something we all should try to avoid.

The trick is to look for ornate fabrics like lace and brocade that are simple in cut, but luxurious texture-wise. Do this and you’ll still look like every bit the demure and elegant bride you ever dreamt of becoming.

Soft, Lace Sleeves

Alexander McQueen, Monique Lhuillier

Soft, lace sleeves were all the rage on the runways of NY Bridal Week and with good reason. Who can forget that magnificent Alexander McQueen Kate Middleton wore at her wedding last April? What especially caught my eye were the traditional but updated lace sleeves. They lent an elegant, vintage touch to the wedding dress. I don’t know about you but I can’t wait to see what else Sarah Burton (the dress’s designer) has up her sleeve in the coming year!

Safe to say, it’s only a matter of time before this regal look catches on in a big way.

Lines we especially love

Source: The Daily Mail UK

Carolina Herrera

Carolina’s dresses are always understated, elegant and instantly timeless. Her collection this time around has an overall soft, vintage feel and also some surprising elements such as black accents. If you’re one who’s aiming to sparkle down the aisle, then Carolina’s latest designs will really appeal to you.

Interesting to note, Bella Swan’s (played by Kristen Stewart) wedding dress in the latest Twilight episode, Breaking Dawn was designed by the Venezuelan. It reportedly costs a whopping $35, 000 (RM 110, 000)!

Marchesa

Not that there was ever doubt but Marchesa designers Georgina Chapman and Karen Craig certainly know how to fit a woman.

The Spring 2012 collection featured sculptural gowns made with sheer tulle, layers of chiffon, fringe, lace, and careful hand-embroidery, each more exquisitely fanciful than the next. Not only was their line-up on trend, it featured understated silhouettes which are not only super glamorous but playful at the same time.

Too much of a good thing is never good

Oscar de la Renta

Sorry, Oscar, but your Spring collection didn’t quite hit it out of the park for me. There was simply too much lace and too much volume around the hemlines.

Too much fabric and volume can be a little loud and distracting. This season is all about soft, elegant, romantic silhouettes and we should always strive to keep up with the trends, shouldn’t we? Hehe.

This Spring, show the love through your dress! We’re excited to see what other trends the year 2012 beckons in the always evolving world of bridal fashion. Happy New Year everyone!

*This article was featured in The Star Newspaper.

Picture courtesy of www.realetsyweddings.com

If you love the trend of photo booth props, then you’ll love this luxe take on the old moustache – get a load of the Goldilocks Moustache by WGA vendors More Than Diamonds.

Picture courtesy of More Than Diamonds

Created by guest designer Tiphaine Guillermou, this cute necklace is available in 18K rose, yellow or white gold – and is the perfect accessory for brides in search of something different. “A moustache looks very dandy, very French, very masculine and provocatively sexy,” Guillermou explains. We certainly think it’s a refreshing addition to the Doodles range.

Picture courtesy of More Than Diamonds

Curious to find out what else can be custom-doodled in gold for you? Get in touch with Goldilocks Jewellery via their website or LWB page xoxo

The good-looking duo even filmed a reality special titled "Nick & Vanessa's Dream Wedding". Will it be anything like "Newlyweds"? Let's hope not.

Vanessa Minnilo and Nick Lachey

When Nick Lachey proposed to former Miss Teen USA, Vanessa Minnilo in November 2010, the couple celebrated their engagement by flying to Mexico. So it was only fitting that their wedding be just as exotic. The former band member of 98 degrees and his fiancée didn’t even let their guests in on all the wedding secrets: The invitations were plane tickets but the location was a surprise! Nick and Vanessa were adamant on having an intimate affair so they married in front of just 35 friends and family members.

Source: Just Jared

Michael Bublé and Luisana Lopilato

The handsome crooner, Michael Bublé and Argentine actress, Luisana Lopilato just couldn’t settle on one wedding so they settled on three! Their first celebration was a civil ceremony in Buenos Aires, followed just a few days later by a 300-person affair at a private mansion, where Michael dedicated his song “Haven’t Met You Yet” to his new wife. Following the ceremony, cocktails were served by the grounds’ lake, illuminated by a thousand candles.

I secretly still like Emily Blunt better though :P

Source: The Official Royal Wedding 2011

Kate Middleton and Prince William

The classic story of Prince Charming marrying a commoner of unparalleled beauty was relived the day Catherine Middleton walked down the aisle with the future king of Britain, Prince William. Not only was it a day to remember for every fortunate person who witnessed the spectacular event, it was also possibly the most-viewed event in history, viewed by an estimated two billion people!

The icing on the cake would probably be the not one but two kisses (and that unforgettable image of their 3-year-old bridesmaid holding her hands over her ears) at the end of the ceremony :)

Excuse the rather unglamorous photo. It was exceedingly difficult to find a good photo of them together. Source: The Daily Mail

Rachel Weisz and Daniel Craig

Daniel Craig truly is a bona fide James Bond at heart. He saved his best 007 move yet by pulling off a top-secret wedding with actress Rachel Weisz.The couple, who dated for six months before making things official, invited only four attendees to the ceremony: Rachel’s five-year-old son, Daniel’s 18-year-old daughter and two friends who served as witnesses.

Til today, no one has seen their photos of their wedding day or Weisz’s wedding dress. Talk about taking the term ‘enigmatic’ to a whole new level!

Source: Instyle UK

Kate Moss and Jamie Hince

For the rock ‘n’ roll wedding, Kate went against the grain by opting a champagne sheer-paneled, sequin dress, custom-designed by John Galliano. And boy did she stun! After speeding away in a Rolls-Royce and blasting rock tunes, the couple celebrated their marriage with a three-day festival-inspired celebration complete with performances by Kanye West and Snoop Dogg.

You have to hand it to them, these two sure know how to show their guests a smashing good time!

Worst

Well, this was a no-brainer. Source: Us Magazine

Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries

Pictures courtesy of WGA vendor Sereni & Shentel.

Sereni & Shentel are making hairdressing that much simpler with their gift sets and we’re spoilt for choice! Take a look at what’s available online right now…

Blair Gift Set (RM288 for 3 Blair headbands)

Block Party Gift Set (RM108 for 3 Block Party headbands)

Mini Ice Gift Set (RM288 for 3 Mini Ice headbands)

Goodie Bag (RM228 for 1 Mini Ice, 1 Blair and 1 Block Party headband)

Party Gift Set (RM390 for 1 Mandy, 1 New Money and 1 Bow Down headband)

Stop by their website for the full kaleidoscope of colours to pick from. You can also design your own headband! Choose your ribbon and stone colours and get a custom Blair for just RM129.

Interested? Visit Sereni & Shentel’s website or LWB page for more information.

Pictures courtesy of WGA vendor Designer Bridal Room.

Lusan Mandongus’ 2012 collection is all about romance and femininity, highlighting the sophistication of vintage glamour. The designs hint at oriental elements, and are both prominent and unique. We especially love the fluidity of the materials – hello, curves – and how it all comes together so sensual and timeless.

Using the most sumptuous and ethereal fabrics of silk duchess satin, organza, tulles and silk chiffon, the dresses are interweaved with French lace and crystal appliqués and embroideries of exquisite craftsmanship. This is definitely a line that caters for women who appreciate high style and couture-like details.

We certainly see great things in 2012 if this is the direction wedding dresses are headed. Watch this space.

Lusan Mandongus is exclusively available in Malaysia at Designer Bridal Room. Please call 03 2141 6003 for an appointment. For more information, please visit www.lusanmandongus.com or check out Designer Bridal Room at their website or LWB page.

Reality star, Heidi Montag underwent 10 cosmetic procedures including enlarging her cup size to a G in one day!

Last year, in one of the most shocking reality TV ideas yet, E! ordered a new series, “Bridalplasty,” where brides-to-be compete in wedding-themed challenges to win extensive surgical procedures. Yes, you read it right, surgical procedures! Here’s the gist of it: each week, a group of women competes head-to-head in challenges such as writing wedding vows and planning honeymoons. The winner receives the chance to choose a plastic surgery procedure from her wishlist while the other 11 women walk away with nothing, losing their chance to be the ‘perfect’ bride. Emmm oookay…

While the show did not continue on for a second season (phew!), it did get us thinking – how many brides out there are willing to go under the knife just to look flawless on their wedding day?

Cindy Jackson, Scarlett Johansson and Joan Rivers - women who have confessed their love for cosmetic surgery

“Money can’t buy you happiness but it can pay for the plastic surgery,” Joan Rivers.

Surely all women who choose to put themselves through such pain and agony are superficial bimbos, right? Think again! Here’s one Mensa member who’s unapologetic of the 52 cosmetic surgeries she has undergone in order to achieve her dream of looking like a living doll. Ohio-born Cindy Jackson holds the world’s record for the most cosmetic surgeries ever performed on a single person.

And she has expressed no regret so far. Not only is she now a bestselling author and a private consultant, she also has a line of advanced skincare bearing her name.

But on the other end of the spectrum, sometimes it’s true what they say, money cannot buy you everything, read this article on the Bride of Wildenstein, a woman who embarked on a radical amount of cosmetic procedures after fearing her millionaire husband would leave her, to know what I mean.

If it took you less than an hour to differentiate the girls from SNSD, I salute you!

So what’s my opinion of all this?

It’s a well-known fact that plastic surgery has become all the rage in South Korea, especially among celebrities. But has it spiraled way out of control? Hyuna of  “Bubble Pop” fame became the subject of scrutiny in many k-pop forums because her cellulite was showing in the music video. Seriously? I have cellulite and it’s a fact I’m not embarrassed about. Granted, there are times when I find myself actually contemplating surgery to get rid of them but then I’d realise that in order to look good and feel good about it, I’d need to work my butt off (see what I did there? hehe). Even if it means a year of brutal workouts and sugar-free diets.

Last words

While we could never judge one’s choices in the pursuit of outer beauty, remember that your man fell in love with you because of you, cellulite, crow’s feet and all. I’m sure he would want the girl he’ll be marrying to look exactly like the girl he first fell in love with ;-)

So what say you? Would you dole out all that cash in order to look good or do you have a contrasting view on the issue? Leave a comment below or drop us a line at info@weddingguideasia.com. Happy Tuesday everyone! :)

Celest with her two daughters and Miss Malaysia Universe Deborah Henry

Just recently, Malaysia International Fashion week (MIFA) was held in Kuala Lumpur. This meant lots of models, champagne, fashionistas (fighting for the front row), designers and press clamouring to get in to the best shows.

Yours truly managed to get an invite to Celest Thoi’s debut with her amazing wedding line. As usual, I was a bit late and albeit hoping it was fashionable was initially not allowed in! Why so? Because unknown to me, a member of royalty was already inside and apparently no one was allowed to enter. Thanks to some nudging (and maybe WGA muscle?!), we managed to convince the bouncers to let us in and have a seat.

Was it worth it? Definitely. Here at WGA we think Celest will make her mark in the Malaysian bridal scene this coming year!

With many bridal boutiques out there, how do you distinguish yourself from the rest?

I guess the direction of my style remains pretty much the same after all these years as I work on the philosophy of timeless, simplicity and elegance for all of my designs. Every Celest Thoi gown is beautifully hand-crafted with luxurious fabrics, ethereal detailing and a modern interpretation of classic lines. I want brides who wear my designs to still love the dress many years down memory lane.

Many girls dream of being the bride, but only a few dream of working in the industry. What was your calling?

Well, it was definitely one of the many things I aspired to do when I was younger. Like all little girls, I loved doodling, making crafts and playing dress-up. I get attracted to pretty things from bugs to lights. I love going to shops that sell trimmings, ribbons, buttons etc. And I can spend hours looking around, hoping to buy them all! I love working with these pretty things coupled with gorgeous fabrics and also, the fact that I work with very happy and excited people…it makes me feel happy and fulfillled at the same time.

You’ve got two gorgeous daughters. How do you juggle both?

I am very blessed to have a very supportive husband and family who are there for my kids when I am busy with work. I would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you!

We’re loving all the pics from your MIFA show, what was it like to walk down the runway?

Amazing. All in all, I was so excited to have been able to launch my very own label, “Celest Thoi” at the recent MIFW 2011 show. “The Celestial Spark Collection” showcased ethereal gowns designed for different brides in mind. My dresses are practical and multi-functional so that they are suited for different occasions from ROM, a garden/beach wedding to a fairytale-themed wedding etc. It was named “The Celestial Spark Collection” as it was sparked by the encouragement and confidence of past clients through word of month, while some looked me up on Facebook. My gratitude and thanks to all of you!

Describe your most memorable masterpiece.

It would have to be transforming a dress from a bride’s mother’s vintage wedding dress into her new wedding dress as she wanted that element of “something old, something new”. It was such a challenge as the vintage lace was so delicate and some parts were kind of soiled, so I had to cut out the lace carefully and patch it on the new silhouette. Crystals and beading did a great job to conceal small spots on the lace. The final product was better than I expected and well worth the hard work :)

What do you predict for weddings in the coming year, in terms of bridal gowns and trends?

Lots of lace, layers and layers of tulle with a touch of horsehair braid and feathers to create that romantic and dreamy look. Illusion necklines, which is when you have a sheer, delicate, and often embellished layer of fabric which covers the skin that would have been otherwise exposed (as pictured above right), will be a big hit as it can be really sexy yet at the same time, modest and demure-looking.

And just for fun…

The no-no wedding trend of 2011 was… the “pick-up” dress as it can look like a pile of whipped cream if it’s not done properly.

A celebrity I’d love to design for would have to be… Lady Gaga as I know she’ll be open to any crazy ideas.

If I were a bridal gown, I’d… look like a piece of art made from the best fabrics – beautiful Chantilly lace and tulle overlay with 100% silk duchess satin that everyone will appreciate; something that is classic, timeless, simple and elegant. Just like Audrey Hepburn and Coco Chanel!