From The Straits Times    |

Vera Wang Manuela Gown. A hot favorite among many brides! Come view (and try) on this gown. It may be just what you are looking for. Available at our upcoming Spring 2016 trunk show from 20 November to 22 November 2015. All brides who make a gown purchase during these 3 days will enjoy a discount! Don't miss this opportunity as it doesn't happen often! To make an appointment, please call +65 66887580 or email Singapore@verawang.com #verawang #verawangbridal #verawangbride #singaporeweddings #singaporewedding #trunkshow #weddingsg #singaporebrides #bridetobe #bridalstore #bridalfashion #vwsingapore #bridaltrend #weddingindonesia #jakarta #thaiwedding #thailandweddingexpert #weddingphilippines #thebridestory #theweddingscoop #brideandbreakfast #asiaweddingnetwork #femalebrides #spring2016 #exclusive #newcollection #malaysiaweddings

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What is a trunkshow?
It’s an event where the designer showcases a sample selection from his or her latest collections for brides to have a look at and try. It’s usually by-appointment-only, and happens mostly on weekends. Brides who order the gowns at the show will enjoy a discount, usually 10 to 15 per cent off.

“A trunk show is a great way to have an exclusive, first-hand look and feel of the latest collection, which will not be available in the boutique until four to six months later. If you’ve got a favourite designer and would like to check out his or her gowns in person, trunkshows usually give brides the opportunity to view and try a wider range of gowns from the collection, as boutiques usually only carry a select number of styles per season,” says founder Tann-Ling of The Prelude Bridal, who stocks gowns such as Marchesa, Kelly Faetanini, Christos and Amsale.

What are the sizes offered?
Sample sizes usually come small. “These are made to fit catwalk models, so please don’t be alarmed if they may not fit you. Instead, your wedding dress consultant will be on hand to offer advice and wisdom about the cut and size of your own gown,” says Joanna Jones, Executive Manager, Bridal Sales and Marketing at Trinity Gallery, who stocks brands like Monique Lhuillier, Reem Acra, Jenny Packham and Oscar de la Renta.

Why come to our #galialahav trunk show, 20-22 November? 1. The latest and newest, Fall/Winter 2016 collection, fresh off the October NY bridal week. 2. The GALA line is really affordable. 3. Potential huge savings. Discount offered on every GALA dress. Further discounts on #bridal shoes and accessories, valid only during the trunk show, thanks to our partners @celestthoibridal and @gioiellisg. Ask us for an appointment, info@theproposal.com.sg | +65 6835 7077 | +65 9106 1286. See you at our store! #theproposalbridal #singaporeweddings #sgweddings #weddingdress #bridalfashion #weddinggown #brides #bridalgowns #wedding #weddings #love #fashion #singapore #jakarta #indonesia #bridalcouture #결혼식 #부케 #웨딩 #드레스 #신부 #婚紗 #婚禮

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Can I rent a dress or buy off-the-rack from a trunkshow?
Nope. These gowns are to order only. There will be no gown rentals, all-inclusive bridal packages, off-the-rack purchases, or clearance sales, say Tann-Ling and Melissa Tan of Vera Wang Singapore. Tann-Ling, Melissa, Joanna and Chern San Lee of The Proposal Bridal, who stocks Peter Langner, Ines di Santo and Galia Lahav, add that there may be discounts offered by the salon’s selected vendor partners (depending on tie-ups) when you order a gown, but the main purpose of the show is to showcase the collection.

Why should I attend a trunkshow?
You get to have a preview of what the latest collections are like from your favourite designer. “At times, a representative from the brand may be present to offer their expert tips on custom changes should you wish to make any on the gown of your choice,” says Melissa.

You will also enjoy perks in terms of discounts if you order your dress on the day itself. “Apart from the attractive discounts offered for gowns ordered during the show, we also usually offer complimentary custom services (e.g. adding of lace or buttons) and accessories (such as the veil). Depending on the show, there may also be some promotions from the salon’s partners in terms of photography, floral services, makeup and so on,” says Tann-Ling.

However, don’t expect major changes to be made. “Unless specified or if the designer is in the house, brides should not expect a brand new design to be made,” says Chern San.

Plus, if there are any exclusive gowns available in a particular collection, you will get a chance to try them on. “This is a rare opportunity, as exclusive gowns are usually only available in limited stores worldwide, or during trunk shows. For example,our Fall 2015 collection had an exclusive range of made-to-order gowns which are only available in five Vera Wang flagship stores worldwide but they were made available to brides to try during our show,” says Melissa

How do I find out when a trunkshow’s in town?
Look out for the salon’s website, or wedding sites like ours for updates.

Top tips on surviving one?

  • Come prepared. As these shows offer rare discounts on (mostly) designer dresses, come with the intent to buy (i.e. order, as these gowns have to be returned. You will only be able to get your gown a few months later), although, don’t feel you have to rush into buying a dress if your heart’s not fully with it. “The dresses will be in the store for a few days only, so come ready to buy, as it won’t be there should you change your mind the following week. It’s also useful if you have either tried on gowns before or you have a strong idea on what styles you like as this means you are ready to make the decision and get the benefits that are being offered!” says Joanna.
  • You will not be the only bride there. “Don’t expect to receive much advice from the consultants, like you would at a one-on-one appointment. With the number of brides per show, there is simply no time to pay attention to every bride. Instead, do your research, and don’t hesitate or wait for after the event to realise you want to try the gown a second time. There is no second chance after the show,” says Melissa.
  • Come with an open mind. Don’t get too fixated on one type of dress – you never know – the silhouette you’ve never considered may just flatter your figure best.
  • Don’t expect other designer gowns present. “Brides should avoid making an appointment to try other designers’ dresses when a particular trunk show is ongoing, as the store will usually dedicate to showcasing all gowns from the featured designer for that particular period of time,” says Chern San.
  • Don’t travel with a large entourage. You don’t want too many opinions confusing you (you may end up wasting your time trying to keep everyone’s suggestions into consideration, and end up without a dress). Instead, bring a select few (think one or two) trusted family and/or friends along.