RTW Becomes the Choice to the Wedding Dais

Believe it, there are two things that always happen during wedding season. First, the couple will say, “I want something simple.” Second, after three weeks of scrolling through TikTok, Pinterest and Instagram, the definition of “simple” suddenly transforms into a gown full of beads, lace, a three-layer veil and a budget that almost matches the down payment of a car.

The truth is, not every bride-to-be wants to go through months of booking a custom outfit or spending a fortune just to wear it for one day. That’s why the ready-to-wear (RTW) concept is increasingly gaining ground. Easy, practical and most importantly, still looks exclusive without having to sacrifice the honeymoon fund.

One collection that has successfully caught my attention is the Adnaa x Seth & Luna collaboration. What I like is that they understand today’s couples want something elegant yet still affordable. Their designs are not too heavy, nor too empty. Balanced enough to make people look and say, “Oh, that’s beautiful.”

If I had to pick a favourite, the answer would definitely be the Inara Couple Set. This design is suitable for brides-to-be who like a little sparkle and detail, but in a more subtle way. It has that “wow” element, but not the type that screams for attention. Only when the light hits it does the detail come to life. Classy, but not overdone.

For couples who prefer a more modern and minimalist style, I would recommend the Mawar Couple Set. Sometimes, the simplest designs are actually the hardest to create because every cut needs to fall perfectly.

Mawar proves that minimalism doesn’t have to be boring. In fact, it gives off a sophisticated aura that will remain beautiful even when viewed years later.

Another question often asked by brides-to-be is, “Should I choose white or off-white?” My answer is simple.

First, look at your own skin tone. For most Malaysians with olive or warm skin tones, colours like off-white, ivory or soft champagne usually tend to brighten the complexion.

Bright white is indeed classic, but on some people it can make the skin look a little dull or too pale, especially under camera and hall lighting.

Before deciding, try wearing both colours under natural light and take a few photos using your phone.

Sometimes what looks beautiful in the mirror may not necessarily be the best choice when captured by camera.

Speaking of cameras, makeup also plays a big role.

I always advise brides-to-be, choose makeup that still makes you look like yourself. Don’t let your family take five seconds to recognise who the bride is on the big day.

Fresh makeup, healthy-looking skin and a focus on enhancing your natural features are usually more beautiful than makeup that is too heavy. Wedding photos will be kept for years, so choose a style that won’t quickly be outdated by trends.

As for accessories, don’t wear everything at once. If your outfit already has beautiful beaded or embroidered details like Inara, choose more minimal accessories.

Conversely, if you choose a clean design like Mawar, you can play with more standout earrings or soft textured headpieces to give a little dimension to the overall look. Remember, accessories should complement the outfit, not compete with it.

One piece of advice from me, if you’ve fallen in love with an RTW collection, don’t wait until everyone starts posting their photos on social media before making a decision.

Usually by then, your desired size is already sold out, leaving only sizes that make you start thinking about whether you need to go on a drastic diet within a week.

Finally, to all brides-to-be, don’t stress too much about chasing the “perfect” wedding. People might remember the flowers, the dais or your outfit for a few days. But your partner will remember your smile for a lifetime.

So choose an outfit that makes you feel comfortable, confident and able to smile from the solemnisation ceremony right through to the last photo of the night. Believe it, confidence is the most expensive and most beautiful accessory that is never sold in any boutique.

Utusan Malaysia