All eyes on the bride

By SHEELA CHANDRAN

sheelac@thestar.com.my

Rizalman’s latest bridal collection is a twist on the modern and traditional.

WEDDINGS are glamorous affairs. Most brides go to great lengths to ensure their big day is memorable. While some prefer gowns with elaborate beading and embroidery, others opt for simple and timeless bridal pieces.

Designer Rizalman Ibrahim’s 2007 Ijab Kabul (marriage solemnisation) collection offers simple yet alluring gowns.

Modern: Kurung-style top with tuxedo pleats and beadwork, worn over matching A-line sarong.

He has kept the designs uncomplicated with minimal embellishment. There are a few edgy outfits which, the designer says, “befit the new age of Malay wedding dresses”.

“The focus is on the bride so the designs are kept basic. The designs are inspired by traditional silhouettes based on multi-body statistics,” Rizalman says.

Sweet: Lace kebaya over matching bustier paired with songket sarong.

To support his theme, Rizalman uses mostly chiffon crepe, chiffon silk and cotton linen because these lightweight materials give a “floating appearance” to the gowns. The designer uses flowery French needle lace to give his outfits a feminine and romantic flair.

Most of his gowns look stylish with embroidered bell sleeves for that regal feel. The designer, who is known for his sophisticated gowns, has added finer details on the hem for a touch of elegance. Pearls, a symbol of unblemished purity and innocence, are used alongside beads, sequins and Swarovski crystals.

Rizalman’s baju kurung and kebaya range have also been kept simple for that graceful look. One of the most outstanding outfits is a plain white kurung top with beadwork at the cuffs, hemline and the sarong in chiffon.

Lavish: Embroidered songket baju kebaya.

For those who want a stately look, there’s the long kurung-style top with tuxedo pleats and beadwork with matching A-line sarong.

The low cut V-neck empire gown in white-layered chiffon and matching long skirt beckons the daring. The long kurung-style top comes with delicate embroidery below the bodice, which gives the illusion of a smaller waistline. One of the trendier outfits in the collection is a tiered chiffon ruffled gown with lacy collar and beadwork

Apart from white, the designer also toys with lavender, pink and peach. Most of Rizalman’s baju Melayu outfits are made from songket material, normally the preferred choice for most Malay weddings.

Weaved in gold and silver threads with geometrical and floral designs, the songket gives a shimmering effect which reflects the splendour of the matrimonial ceremony. The designer has also incorporated sequins, gemstones and pearl embellishments on the hem, collar and yoke. Some of his sarongs come with running line pleats.

Sleek: Nyonya-style kebaya top in cotton linen with matching bustier and long mermaid skirt in chiffon.

The collection includes a Nyonya-style kebaya top in cotton linen embroidered with pearls and beads, with matching bustier. For that classic touch, Rizalman has added an ethnic inspired belt similar to those used in traditional Malay theatrical dances. The outfit comes with a flowing white mermaid skirt in chiffon.

“The combination of the belt and modern design symbolises a twist of what’s current and old. It also emphasises new silhouettes with authentic accessories,” he says.

Most wedding gowns come with a matching shawl but for modern couples, Rizalman offers headgears made from chiffon and tulle.

The collection is available at Rizalman Ibrahim Couture boutique, 110-G, Jalan Imbi, Kuala Lumpur.