Philippine bridal trends for 2011 revealed

MANILA, Philippines - There are bridal trends that will never go away, such as the classic white gown and the big balloon skirt.

Still, we should always be open to new wedding ideas and concepts so "brides don't look the same," said Georgia Schulze, contributing writer for Metro Weddings magazine.

"I hope that changes and brides can be a little more unique," she said in an interview at Mornings@ANC on Friday.

Schulze said this year is a good time for brides to try adding a splash of color to their wedding gowns.

She said nudes and grays, instead of the usual white, are expected to be a hit this 2011.

Accents, such as a black sash, will be in as well, she added.

Wedding planner Rita Neri agreed with Schulze, saying that Filipino brides are highly unlikely to wear gowns in bold colors such as red and black.

An exception may be singer Regine Velasquez, who matched a bright red dress with high-heeled leather boots as she tied the knot with Ogie Alcasid last year.

"More of accent colors, not really the whole thing. It's more like dusting of a color," said Neri, who runs her own events planning company.

Here are some of the bridal trends in the Philippines for 2011, as featured in Mornings@ANC:

A touch of nature. Add flowers to play up a classic strapless gown. Instead of the traditional roses and calla lilies, use beautiful wildflowers in shades of green, lime and white.

Stunning simple. Pair a tapered formal tux with a flowing chiffon gown for understated glamour. Use unconventional cuts, wrapped bodices and interesting patterns. Highlight a strapless neckline with a hint of embellishment and textured layers in soft silk chiffon.

Water goddess. Take your inspiration from water and choose a lightweight material which flatters your figure. Add texture and movement with a wrapped bodice and a shirred skirt.

Summer palette. Don't be ruled by whites and blacks. Opt for bright outdoor shades like light blue and pink.

Crazy for cream. Cream is fast becoming a color of choice for most bridal gowns. Look stunning in a beach celebration with a perfectly cut cream-colored dress with deconstructed layers.