Work of Art - featuring Ted Wu
by Melissa Chin, 1 May 2007

It was through sheer chance that Ted Wu started designing bridal gowns since 1995.

His boss at the made-to-measure boutique – Ted had been working there as a designer since post-National Service – had decided to migrate, so he considered taking over the business.

His big break came when a customer came by and asked him to design a bridal gown for her daughter. “I got such a huge kick out of the experience,” says Ted. “I am now a full-fledged designer.” In that instant, the Ted Wu label was born.

Ted knew he had something different to offer as a bridal designer. Apparently, another customer had requested for a dress with Peranakan influences. Although his original proposal, which incorporated details created with the Peranakan needlework technique known as the Sulam stitch, was rejected, Ted hung it in his window display. The dress caught a fashion stylist’s attention, who loaned it for a photo shoot. And the rest, like they always say, is history.

Since then, he’s dressed some of Singapore’s most recognisable women, including actress Evelyn Tan, MediaCorp artiste May Phua and news anchor Tung Soo Hua. Ted particularly relished working with Evelyn, whose wedding was broadcast live on national TV. He also created outfits for her entourage, including six bridesmaids and bestmen.

“Evelyn was a typical Ted Wu bride,” he says. “She’s a down-to-earth girl-next-door who loved romance and beautiful things. Her brief was very simple; she wanted to look like a princess on her wedding day.”

Ted claims he is a firm believer in happy-ever-after, because “it’s important to be able to relate to the romance in these stories to create beautiful gowns, to be able to make every bride’s fantasy of becoming a princess a reality,” he smiles.

When Ted first started out in the business, his bridal gowns were very clean-cut – just A-line plain duchess satin dresses without much embroidery. Even some bride’s mother commented how they looked like bridesmaid dresses.

These days, however, Ted’s gowns are sought after for their exquisite embroidery, as well as his knack at weaving in seasonal trends to his designs. “I’m more than just a bridal designer. I’m a fashion designer in the bridal business,” he offers. “Incorporating fashion into bridal designs is my way of having fun with what I’m doing and keeping the passion alive.”

Already, he is on his way to going global. In 2005, he set up a branch in Bangkok. “I think Bangkok is such an exciting and fashionable city,” he reveals. “The best part is, the Thais and Singaporeans have similar taste in style, so I feel my designs would be appreciated there too.”

Meanwhile, back in Singapore, he’s launched TWU, a youthful and snazzy range of party and cocktail dresses. “TWU complements the main line, which offers classic designs,” says Ted. “This constant movement keeps me on my toes. Who knows, I might just do a maternity collection next!”

Ted Wu is at 77 Tras Street. For appointments, call 6327-1241. For more information, log on to www.ted-wu.com or e-mail tedwu@singnet.com.sg