Designers from around the world come together to create largest fashion event in Middle East

Kick-starting the fashion fiesta on Wednesday 8 April, the opening day of The Bride Show Dubai, is Ines Di Santo, one of Canada's most renowned designers and creator of original haute couture wedding dresses and evening gowns.

Born in Italy, raised in Argentina and now living in Toronto, Di Santo brings a truly international spirit to The Bride Show Dubai for the very first time.

Visitors to the catwalk show can expect to see hyper-feminine, intricately embellished gowns using the highest grade crystals and embroideries.

The opportunity to purchase Ines Di Santo gowns will only be available in the Middle East during The Bride Show Dubai event at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre, running until 11 April 2009.

There will be 17 fashion shows spread over the four day bridal extravaganza, with models from Dubai's Modena Model Management walking down the runway in jaw dropping wedding dresses, haute couture evening wear and beautifully embellished abayas.

The stunning girls, who have now all been cast for the show, have modelled for some of the biggest names in fashion and beauty, including Valentino, John Galliano, Cartier and Swarovski.

The runway looks will be created by a team of backstage artists. Make up will be provided by M.A.C. Cosmetics, a long standing partner of The Bride Show, and this year Dubai-based salon Carla K will create perfect hair styles which will help brides-to-be create their own 'big day' look.

"This year's bride is fresher and more romantic than we've ever seen," said Carla Khoury, owner of Carla K salon, who will take charge backstage.

"We will be creating many different looks on the catwalk so that visitors can seek inspiration. Softly curled and wavy hair, pinned half up and with texture around the face and neck gives a soft and dreamy bridal look which is very popular this season," she added.

The Bride Show Dubai fashion shows are always incredibly popular features of the event. Fashionistas who want to see this season's designs up close and personal know that The Bride Show offers them the only opportunity to bag a front row seat at the runway as no other event of this kind is open to the public.

A number of new fashion design houses will be taking to the catwalk this year. Visitors can expect to see fresh ideas in wedding dresses and haute couture evening wear from 3DEEZ, Design Corner, Al Thani Couture, Sposa, Sharqiyat and Kanzi Boutique.

Returning to the exhibition by popular demand will be wedding dress and evening wear crowd favourites Demetrios, Julea Domani, Meena Rose and First Mode, while abayas from Arabesque, Crystallized Swarovski Elements, Dar Al Shamook, Oshia Design and Mauzan will grace this year's catwalk.

The Bride Show Dubai takes place from 8 to 11 April 2009 at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre.