TO THE untrained eye, things like embellishments and intricate detailing that go into the designing of an elaborate evening gown, is irrelevant. All that matters is the finished product, as long as the crystals, lace and whatnot look good on it. However, to the designer, media and fashion buyers, details like these make a world of difference.

Eric Choong’s creations which were displayed last February at the Sydney Bridal Fashion Week – An International Haute Couture and Bridal Fashion Show, showed the others how it’s done.

His efforts to break away from conventional usage of decorative elements were not in vain. The media and fashion buyers appreciated his unique application techniques and Choong received much praise throughout the three days he was there.

“They go right down to the nitty-gritty because that’s what makes the gown different. They notice how each piece of crystal and bead is applied,” said Choong, in an interview after returning from Sydney.

“And they really liked what I did with my handmade rosettes and the (designs) I created with the beads and crystals. No two pieces are alike. Each and every gown has my personal touch in it,” he added.

Choong explained that while most designers used a strip of crystal as a border or strap, he turned it into loops or floral motifs stitched onto the gown to create the illusion of volume.

He gets his ideas from his travels. “I love to travel. I walk around the city, and take note of window displays and architecture as well as what the locals wear.”

For this season’s collection, Choong draws inspiration from the ocean. Themed Rhythm of the Ocean, his haute couture and bridal wear collections evoke the wonderful shapes found on the seabed.

The couture collection features hourglass columns that strategically combine transparent tulle with sequinned fabrics and lace in hues of blue, purple, green and red, scattered with handcrafted rosettes and ruffles symbolising fish fins, sea shells and corals.

Elements of Swarovski can be found cascading down the body to shed light on the mix of fabrics and bare skin.

The bridal collection features a more casual side to weddings. The special invitation from the organisers allowed Choong, the only representative from South-East Asia, to present 10 evening wear dresses and 10 bridal gowns on the runway alongside other designers from the Netherlands, Hong Kong, Sydney and Melbourne.

This was not his first international showcase but Choong said it was normally more satisfying when his clothes were exhibited alongside foreign designers.

“The cultural differences can be seen (in the gowns). The technique, style and silhouette is different for each designer,” Choong explained.

From observation, he noticed that colour choices varied rather significantly. Many opt for more vibrancy whereas he kept it cooler with pastel colours. Others preferred to design princess bridal gowns with the customary veil, which is not Choong’s style. He prefers headbands and his gowns are more minimalistic and versatile.

“The bridal gowns are empire cut with A-line skirts ... very flowy. Lots of layers, tulle, handmade roses, crystals and embellishment,” said Choong, who was the 2007 winner of Designer of the Year at the MIFA Awards.

Either way, Choong said that all his outfits were well received and just being there, he added, was already a good platform and experience for all.

More than 100 exhibitors participated in the event and apart from designers, hotels and holiday resorts tried outdo each another with various honeymoon packages; florists boasted the best bridal floral arrangements; wedding specialists gave their plans; and photography studios provided the frames to capture the memories.

Ultimately, Choong said it was great to have been a part of it all and aspires to have his own boutique in Australia.

“One day,” he said with a smile.