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Below: This gown mixes soft tulle with a vibrant skirt of ostrich feathers, silk flowers, and crystals. (Ines di Santo via Martha Stewart Weddings)

Below: The skirt of this ball gown is made up of a mixture of frayed organza and feather embroidery. (Legend, Monique Lhuillier via Martha Stewart Weddings)

Below: Italian tulle and silk organza gown with feathered tulle skirt. (Style 4888)  Strapless gown with hand-beaded drop torso with full skirt in tulle and silk organza. (Style 4879) Liancarlo.com via Weddingish

Below: Dimensional flower petals and fanciful feathers bloom from the waistline of this romantic tulle gown. (Going to the Chapel, Matthew Christopher via Martha Stewart Weddings)

Below: V-neck dress with full feathery skirt by Reem Acra

Below: (L) Douglas Hannant gown. (R) Feathered one-shoulder gown by Ines Di Santo (via firstVIEW via weddingish).

I do understand that not everyone agrees with me. Obviously not everyone agrees with me, because there are quite a lot of short dresses making it onto the runways today! And some, I admit, are pretty darling.  So if you’re got a beach wedding planned or just want to slip into something easier to dance in (after you’ve had your fun in the ball gown!), here are some delightful little dresses to consider!

All photos from Martha Stewart Wedding.

Matthew Christopher

Modern Trousseau

Matthew Christopher

Monique Lhuillier

Simone Carvalli

Ines di Santo

Aria

Matthew Christopher

Simone Carvalli

See more short dresses at Martha Stewart Wedding!

Here’s the recap, from Kate’s glittering tiara down to her hand-embroidered lacey pumps!

Get the Dress

There was much excited speculation over what The Dress would look like, with many big designers getting in on the fun and creating their perfect princess gown. Ramona Keveza almost got it perfect when she created this romantic A-line gown with a lace illusion neckline and sleeves decorated with delicate Chantilly lace.

Another look-alike is the Andrea gown, by Priscilla of Boston. This silk organza ball gown has embellished lace details on the skirt, much like Kate’s. The fully beaded lace jacket with scalloped edges adds royal charm.

Another Priscilla of Boston gown (this is Style 4615) is equally beautiful, with a twist. This A-line gown with hand-appliqued crystal-encrusted Alencon Lace sleeves also features a a lovely silver sash for added dimension.

Get the Tiara

Of course, a princess has to wear a tiara! If you want a royal headpiece too, but don’t have access to the Queen’s extensive collection of tiaras (Kate chose a  1936 Cartier “halo” tiara), check out these lovely options. Brides.come recommends, from top to bottom: Erica Koesler, David’s Bridal, Bel Aire Bridal, Ann Leslie Designs. For more headpiece ideas, visit Brides.com’s accessories gallery.

Kate’s veil is made of layers of soft, ivory silk tulle with a trim of hand-embroidered flowers, which were embroidered by the Royal School of Needlework, where the lace appliqué for the bodice and skirt were hand-made as well.

Get the Jewels

The lovely drop earrings Kate wore were commissioned by her parents, Carole and Michael Middleton, as a wedding present.  London Jeweler Robinson Pelham created the diamond oak leaf and acorn earrings for the bride – a motif which echoes the coat of arms of the Middleton family.

Brides.com showcases a similar style from their most recent Brides Local Magazines cover shoot. They’re by the L.A.-based designer Simon G., who always finds beautiful, interesting ways to showcase diamonds. Like Kate’s earrings, these delicate danglers would perfectly complement any regal wedding gown.

Get the Shoes

So when it comes to your wedding gown, taking a look back in time is a good place to start. Are you a fun-loving flapper from the 20′s or an elegant lady of the 50′s? Take a look at these gowns, each one reminiscent of one of America’s iconic fashion eras (thank you, Martha Stewart) and be ready to be blown away!

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Rococo 1700′s: Big hoops. Big drama.

Victorian 1800′s: Aristocratic. Ladylike. Fascinating.

Roaring 20′s: Audacious. Glitzy. Glamorous.

Art Deco 20′s & 30′s: Simple. Elegant. Functional.

1950′s: Crisp. Tailored. Polished.

Swinging 60′s: Relaxed. Revolutionary. Real.

Disco 70′s:  Captivating. Groovy. Dance til you drop.

Punk 80′s: Audacious. Flirty. Sexy.

21st Century: Dramatic. Unique. Contemporary.

More gown inspiration: Martha Stewart: From the Runway

A gown with sleeves is another cold-weather option. Sleeves are in, and a perfect way to protect yourself against the chill. More winter fashion perks include heavier fabrics such as luxurious silk satins and richer hues.

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Gown by Alfred Angelo, via Brides.com

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Here are some more lovely winter cover-up options!

Gown by Ann Frances via Brides.com

Gown by Cosmobella via the knot

Silk taffeta cream ruffle stole via the knot

Gown by Jim Hjelm via Brides.com

Monique Lhuillier by Kleinfeld via the knot

A sheath is anything but simple! These amazing gowns come strapless and with sleeves, in silk and lace, embellished, embroidered, beaded and ruched, in styles both modern and classic… it’s all here! Take a look at some of these beauties, and let us know what your favorite is!

All photos from Martha Stewart Wedding

Nicole Miller, Fall 2011 Collection, nicolemiller.com.

Valena Valentina, Fall 2011 Collection, valenavalentina.com. Photograph by firstVIEW.

Monique Lhuillier, Fall 2011 Collection, moniquelhuillier.com. Photograph by firstVIEW.

Lela Rose, Fall 2011, lelarose.com. Photograph by firstVIEW.

Modern Trousseau, Fall 2011 Collection; moderntrousseau.com. Photograph by firstVIEW.

Anne Bowen, Fall 2011, annebowen.com. Photograph by firstVIEW.

Randi Rahm, Fall 2011 Collection; randirahm.com. Photograph by firstVIEW.

Kevan Hall, Fall 2011 Collection, kevanhalldesigns.com. Photograph by firstVIEW.

Nicole Miller, Fall 2011 Collection, nicolemiller.com

Reem Acra, Fall 2011, reemacra.com. Photograph by firstVIEW.

Nicole Miller, Fall 2011 Collection, nicolemiller.com

Monique Lhuillier, Fall 2011 Collection, moniquelhuillier.com. Photograph by firstVIEW.

Nicole Miller, Fall 2011 Collection, nicolemiller.com

Reem Acra, Fall 2011, reemacra.com. Photograph by firstVIEW.

Jenny Lee, Fall 2011, jennyleebridal.com. Photograph by firstVIEW.

Modern Trousseau,Fall 2011, moderntrousseau.com. Photograph by firstVIEW.

Kevan Hall, Fall 2011 Collection; kevanhalldesigns.com. Photograph by firstVIEW.

Johnna Ho, Fall 2011 Collection; johnnaho.com. Photograph by firstVIEW.

Randi Rahm, Fall 2011 Collection, randirahm.com. Photograph by firstVIEW.

For more photos, styles, and designers visit Martha Stewart Wedding Fall 2011: From the Runway

’50s Flair

Bridal designers are loving belted gowns, high necklines, tulle skirts, and tea-length dresses. Dress by Anne Barge via the Knot.

Tulle

Tulle can be tricky to get right– you want to look ethereal without feeling like a little girl in a party dress.  Artful draping combined with stunning bead-work make tulle the perfect combination in this Vera Wang dress, via AllWomensTalk

Black is Back

Bits of black make wedding dress details pop, from bows and sashes to bolder embellishments and patterns.  Dress by Jenny Packham via the Knot.
See more black-accented wedding dresses

Asymmetrical Necklines

The one-shoulder style is gaining popularity. But this season, over-the-top details are what really makes them stand out. Dress by Anne Bowen via the Knot.  See more one-shoulder wedding dresses.

Bows

These knots are hot, from droopy satin bows to more structured ones! Bows give your dress a feminine look that’s not too girly. Dress by Amsale via the Knot. See more wedding dresses with bows

Flower Power

We love the burst of springtime blooms, whether it’s cherry-blossom details or embroidered, eye-catching rosettes. Dress by Claire Pettibone via the Knot.  See more dresses with flowers.

Illusion Necklines

Sheer straps are the perfect coverage if you want something subtle and sexy. Whether it’s bateau, V-neck, or even one-shoulder, this look is dreamy! Dress by Melissa Sweet via the Knot.

Metallic Prints

If black details are not your thing, consider this hot, new style glittering in gold and silver details.  Dress by Christos via the Knot.

Top it off

To finish the look, designers are adding a hat! Whether it’s something dainty and demure with a birdcage veil, or a large, droopy picture hat, this is one trend we take our hats off to! Carolina Herrera via AllWomensTalk

Save on Alcohol

• Instead of providing a full bar, serve a signature drink, such as punch or a favorite cocktail, instead of providing a full bar.  Another option is to limit alcoholic beverages to wine and beer, choices that will satisfy most of your guests.

• Rather than pouring Champagne all night long, serve just a single glass to each guest at the appropriate time to toast the bride and groom.

• Technically, Champagne is sparkling wine that’s from the Champagne region of France. But you can find plenty of substitutions that don’t come with the high price tag.  For example, Cava, the Spanish take on Champagne, or Prosecco, from Italy, which is smoother, sweeter, and a better fit for a small budget. Even French sparkling wine is cheaper; it’s made the same way but isn’t actually from Champagne.

• Buy your own wine wholesale. You may pay your caterer a corkage fee to pour it, but wine purchased through him can cost twice as much.

• Most merchants offer a 10 percent discount for buying wine by the case, and they’ll often increase that if you purchase several cases at once.

Save on your Wedding Cake

• Hire an outside baker to provide the wedding cake, if your caterer’s contract permits. You may have to pay a cake-cutting charge, but you will likely pay less overall.

• Want a tall cake but don’t want to pay full price? Have your baker make just enough to serve each guest one slice.  Additional tiers can be made of Styrofoam and iced to match the others.  No one will know!

• Alternatively, you can order two cakes for the reception: a small fancy one to be used for display, and a large sheet cake, which does not need to be elaborately decorated.   The bigger cake gets sliced and dished up in the kitchen.

• Or, order a very plain (and moderately priced) cake, and make the focal point the cake topper. Vintage toppers and classic symbols can make a cake memorable.

• You don’t need a whole separate dessert course. Just present the wedding cake as dessert, with coffee and tea, to end the meal.

Save on Ingredients

• Have your caterer use local fruits and vegetables that are in season. They’re tastier, fresher, and more economical!

• Use expensive ingredients, such as lobster, in hors d’oeuvres rather than in a main course.

• How you serve dinner affects the price. Regular plate service and French service, in which guests are served by waiters from a platter at the table, are the most expensive. Family style, where diners help themselves from serving dishes brought to the table, is more economical.

Save on Flowers

• Many popular bridal flowers are available year-round, but some traditional ones — peonies and lilies of the valley, for example — can be expensive out of season. Consult with your florist about what flowers are in season and easy to obtain.

• Mix berries, pine cones (for winter), and other economical non-floral embellishments  to fill out bouquets and displays.

• You don’t need to deck every pew with flowers. Get the most bloom for your buck by asking your florist to design two lush altarpieces, which will direct everyone’s eyes exactly where you want them to be: on you and your groom.

• Make floral arrangements do double duty: If designed properly, your ceremony flowers can serve as centerpieces at the reception, or decorate the guest-book, seating-card, and favor tables. Place bridesmaids’ bouquets on the cake table.

Saving on Centerpieces

• Floating flowers: Instead of decorating tables with large arrangements, float a few flowers in shallow bowls or glass cylinders filled halfway with water.

• Economical flowers: Floral standbys like daisies and carnations are available year-round, are quite affordable, and when arranged en masse make delightful centerpieces and bouquets.

• Flowering bulbs: Flowers like amaryllis, narcissus, and hyacinth often cost less than regular flowers and are dramatic rising from a layer of stones set in clear containers.

• Fruits: Bowls or compotes filled with seasonal fruits from a farmer’s market can take the place of expensive floral presentations.

• Candles: A single pillar candle in a hurricane lantern is a wonderful centerpiece, as is a casual display of votive candles in the middle of a table.

• Vases: You’ll save money if your florist doesn’t have to supply vases for your centerpieces. if you have a collection of containers, such as jelly jars or milk jugs. Filled with flowers, just about any type of vessel will make pretty displays.

Save on Favors

• Use favors as place cards to save a bit on stationery costs. For seating cards, write guests’ names and table numbers on strips of paper, affix them to the favors, and set in order on a table near the entrance. For place cards, put favors with names attached at guests’ places.

• Handmade favors (especially edible ones like cookies or candies) and decorations are appealing and usually cost less than store-bought.

Save on the Season

• A winter date may come with lower fees, rather than scheduling in the summer, when rates are at their highest.

• Weddings scheduled during holidays or vacation times are more popular and therefor more expensive. To cut costs, plan your wedding during an uneventful season.

• Fridays and Sundays are generally less expensive than Saturdays for renting a venue.

• For a destination wedding, book a date that is not as popular for travel in the region.

Downsize

• Wedding Party: Try to keep the number of attendants as small as possible.  The larger the bridal party, the more you’ll spend on gifts and flowers.

• Transportation:  Use a personal car rather than a limousine to get to and from the reception.

• Wedding Highlights:  Hire a videographer to work just from the ceremony through the first dance rather than for the entire wedding.

• Photographer: There are many talented photographers who haven’t made a name for themselves yet, and their lack of fame can save you a fortune. If you fall hard for a photographer who’s in high demand, ask if she’ll refer you to a lower-priced colleague (just make sure you like his work before you commit).

• Location: If you are considering two locations, small towns are more economical than big cities! One bride moved her wedding from Brooklyn, New York to a beach town in Michigan, and watched catering quotes drop from $140 per head to $40 — a savings of $15,000!

• Guest List: To minimize the guest list, refrain from inviting children and coworkers. Include your friends’ significant others but not casual dates.

• Extras: A venue that comes with extras built in, like a wedding coordinator or an on-site ceremony location, means significant savings.

• Negotiate: Before signing a contract with your caterer, photographer, or florist, try to negotiate a lower yet still reasonable price.

• Celebrate in Public: The nicest wedding sites — parks, museums, public gardens — may be the most affordable.

• Music: For your reception, remember that a deejay can be less costly than a live band.  To avoid hiring two bands and paying two separate fees, ask if just a few pieces of the band can play during the ceremony and cocktail hour, as well as at the reception.

Save on Your Wedding Dress

• Look for a dress at sample sales, trunk shows, and outlets; you can sign up for some designers’ sample-sale listings online. Most wedding-dress designers allow you to sign up for news and updates.  Even if you dislike this type of spam, getting on their e-mail lists will keep you informed on time-sensitive info such as sample sales and trunk shows.

• Consider wearing your mother’s gown. The costs of cleaning and alterations will likely be far less than the cost of buying a new wedding dress.

Use your Friends

• Borrow accessories from family and friends instead of buying them.

• Ask talented friends or relatives to help with your wedding. An artistic friend, for instance, might design your stationery, or a baking enthusiast could make cupcakes or cookie favors.

Hope these tips are helpful! For the complete list, visit Martha Stewart Weddings: 65 Ways to Trim Your Budget.

Not only is black an elegant and unique choice for a bridal gown, in these difficult times it’s an economical choice, too. Women are more likely to re-wear their wedding gown if it’s black, rather than white or ivory.  For the same reason, tailored outfits are more popular than puffy, meringue-shaped gowns.

Does this trend sound bizarre? Maybe it shouldn’t. Brides wore different colours until the 19th century, since many women simply chose their best dress, rather than buy a new one. It wasn’t until 1840, when Queen Victoria wore rich white silk to wed in, the colour associated with purity became the norm for British brides, which spread to other Western countries.

While black may be associated with funerals in traditional American attitude, many cultures associate while with death and grieving. It’s also interesting to realize that in Spain, a black dress signifies the bride will remain faithful until she dies.

The bottom line is, modern brides are not squeamish about expressing their individuality, even if it means going against tradition.  Whether your dress is white, red, blue or black, wear something on your wedding day that makes you feel beautiful, and reflects your uniqueness!

Would you wear a black wedding dress?

Pear Shaped: An A-line dress like this one, by Jim Hjelm, has a V-neckline, spaghetti straps, and a natural waist, so it highlights the tiniest part of your figure and disguises your more voluptuous hips.

Petite: A shorter bride, looking for something sassy, should opt for a knee length dress, like this ruffle collar dress by Thread. Something longer, or tea length, may make you look even shorter.

Athletic: If you’ve got a boyish frame and broad shoulders, Then this style by Peter Langner, could look great on you. The V-shape will draw the eye downward and create the illusion of a more petite frame while a cinched waistline will help you fake an hourglass shape.

Short torso: A bold, vertical embellishment, like the floral applique on this Carolina Herrera design, paired with a halter neckline is an elegant way to elongate your figure.

Problem areas: This sparkles on this dress by Platinum for Priscilla of Boston serve as a great distraction for any areas you want to hide. It also has a pretty sweetheart neckline and corseted bodice that will flatter any figure.

Tummy Tuck: A draped skirt and a center-knotted waistline will create a cinching effect. Add some heels and that tummy bulge is all gone!

Skinny-minny: This Amsale gown illustrates how there’s nothing like all-over ruching and slim tiers to give you an hourglass figure.

Arm-conscious: For a design with a bit more upper-arm coverage, will love the flutter sleeves on this gown by Nicole Miller.