Owner-designer Shirley Li of Flamingo Bridal is a self-professed art junkie And thank goodness for that - her designs and use of fabrics are thus interesting and distinctive. She works with classic fabrics such as tulle and lace to create a myriad of unexpected details.

        Lace is cut into applique shaped like flowers or leaves, half of which are sewn onto the dress, leaving the other half, dangling freely The effect gives the dress a slightly unfinished, yet artsy feel. "It's meant to mimic the effect of trailing. vines," says Shirley Combined with similarly done, flower-shaped applique, a gown ends up looking like something out of a storybook - whimsical, pretty. yet still totally wearable.

        Shirley also loves working with unconventional fabrics. She's fashioned modern halterneck gowns out of traditional sari fabrics and reworked vintage gowns with denim for a modern appeal. And believe it or not, her fashion forward designs go down well with her brides who love her gowns for their East-West or modern-vintage contrasts.

        Her latest collection has a number of wedding gowns with asymmetrical hems that brides wanting more movement will love. With Spanish-inspired, gypsy frills decorating the hem, or romantic ruffles around the neck, the gowns are flirty but not too funky, and their long trains also mean they're perfect for a semi-formal as well as an ROM ceremony "Short dresses don't have to be limited to ROM ceremonies. With the right detailing and cut, you can wear them for different party styles.

" says Shirley passionately. Indeed, why limit your options?