On the evening of October 31, Singapore's best-dressed brides-to-be found themselves bowled over by the charming confections churned out for the Bridal Veil by Michelle Huimin Haute Couture Collection 2009/2010.
Held at Sentosa's Amara Sanctuary Resort, the eagerly anticipated event attracted a crowd of nearly 500, many of whom had turned up as early as an hour before it was scheduled to begin. In between champagne and canapés, the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement, especially with most visitors being first-timers at the newly open hotel.
By 7.30pm, it took little to cajole everyone into the ballroom. Local celebrity couple Randall Tan and Melody Chen, decked out in Michelle Huimin’s glamorous outfits, kept the crowd entertained with their light-hearted bantering.
The first to stroll down the rose-lined runway were real-life bridal couples, all garbed in the designer’s exquisite haute couture creations. Michelle ensured her latest collection sparkled and dazzled with her signature touch – all the elegant silhouettes were adorned with gorgeous Swarovski crystal handiwork, whether along the seams, across the bodice, on the back or even in spurts of starbursts splashed in the front.
For the next hour, the audience was treated to a sumptuous showcase of nearly 100 pieces of bridal gowns, evening dresses and even flower girl outfits, along with 36 men’s suits. Correspondingly, the themes went from classic elegance to super-swanky couture to even fairytales and fantasy (complete with tiaras and butterfly wings!). Apart from white, ivory and cream, the palette was littered with tones of black, pink, yellow and red.
For traditional types, there were stylish cuts with long trains, clever draping techniques and pretty bow embellishments. For sporty ones, Michelle offered up two-piece ensembles that bared the midriff. For the fashion-forward, bubble sleeves and oversized hats added a jaunty twist.
Several grooms-to-be, meanwhile, were also caught casting appreciative glances at Bridal Veil’s Men’s Club offerings. Michelle sent out handsome tuxedoes and three-piece suits in unconventional shades of gray and silver. Many also came with eye-catching details such as a dramatic shirt collar, among others.
All too soon, the show came to an end. But proving that the best had been saved for the last, a lucky draw was held; a couple won the top prize of a one-night’s stay at the Amara Sanctuary Resort while a bride brought home a lovely Bridal Veil gown worth $5,000. |
