Wedding concerns solved

CEBU, Philippines - Even though Ralph Lauren has a closet of wedding dresses exclusive for his employees, one of them still has a few concerns about finding the right fit.

And so Vera Wang, who used to design for the clothing line after leaving her post as fashion editor at Vogue magazine, was inspired to launch her self-titled wedding atelier to address women's needs.

"I was frustrated because I couldn't find the perfect dress for my own wedding," she shares later on. "Years back; we did not have much of an option."

From being the seeker to becoming the solution, Vera has won the approval of many, celebrities included: recently wed Kim Kardashian, our very own Asia's Songbird Regine Velasquez, and Vogue's director of special events Danielle Sotto-Ward.

In The Little Black Book of Style written by Marie Claire fashion director Nina Garcia, Vera tips the brides on how to choose the dress, the guests on what to wear to a wedding, and just about what she considers truly stylish. Here's the excerpt:

Nina Garcia (NG): What is the most common style mistake a bride makes?

Vera Wang (VW): I think the worst mistake a bride can make is not to be recognizable. The essence of who she is sometimes gets lost after everyone gets hold of her. Be true to your own style. If you normally dress conservatively, your wedding is not the time to try something risqué. The most important is to wear something that makes you feel beautiful.

NG: How can bridesmaids be stylish?

VW: The same rules that apply to the bride apply to her attendants, as well. Do not make any extreme or unusual beauty statements. Jewelry should always be minimal and natural makeup looks best. A pale color can be subtle and more romantic for a summer wedding, while dark colors look great in winter or in the evening. Low backs or slightly décolleté necklines can be sexy and highly appropriate during summer months; obvious cleavage, however, is never tasteful.

NG: What is your advice for guests when dressing for a wedding?

VW: Regarding issues of wedding attire, everyone must defer without exception to the bride. The hour, the season, and venue should dictate the choice.

NG: What do you find incredibly stylish in a woman?

VW: Women have to be true to themselves. You should adhere to your personal style, no matter what the situation. A woman is never sexier than when she is comfortable in her clothes. (FREEMAN)