-- How to Show off your Gorgeous Gams and still look Bridal.

Feisty Fashionista,

 I am always a fan of doing things as non-traditional as possible, so I'm sure it doesn't surprise you that I love the idea of short wedding gowns. The idea isn't really a crazy concept, Audrey Hepburn, the beacon of class and sophistication, wore short gowns to both her nuptials. That's always a good way to talk your mother/mother-in-law into accepting the idea. Albeit if you are having the most formal crazy black tie affair, a short gown may not be the best plan, but why not change into a really fancy one for the reception? I changed into a lacy mini for my reception and it was totally the right choice for me. I couldn't bust the proper moves in my ginormous wedding gown, besides no one would have been able to see my shoes. Short wedding gowns come in all varieties of silhouettes and lengths, from micro-minis to June Cleaver A-line mid-calf skirts. Wedding gown designers, such as Melissa Sweet and Reem Acra, always have a sprinkling of short gowns in their collections. Amsale even has a new collection aptly named Amsale Presents the Little White Dress. You see, I do something and people of the world just follow suit or dress in this case. I love puns...and sarcasm. Short wedding gowns have the ability to make us look taller and thinner than a traditional wedding gown and considering that most of us hate our midsection and/or thighs, a short gown can show off your pretty décolletage and your pretty legs, which are generally our thinnest parts. Plus, I think short gowns really have a sense of whimsy and playfulness that are often missing from floor length gowns. I am a true believer that your gown should reflect your personality and who doesn't want a gown that screams fun?

Shopping for a short gown is an interesting process because it isn't totally necessarily to go to a wedding boutique. I have found great options by Catherine Malandrino, Shoshanna, BCBG Max Azria, Alexander Wang, Laundry by Shelli Segal, and believe it or not, Black House White Market. These are amazing and inexpensive options, ranging from 170 to 600 dollars, a great price for beautiful, fashionable gowns. Also, don't be afraid to check out beautiful well-made bridesmaid's dresses, most of them come in a white or ivory for a fraction of the cost of the same designers gowns, yet made with the same fabrics at the same warehouse. For you ladies on a budget, it is imperative that you have at least one real trip to a bridal salon, it is an experience that you should have. Okay, now for some of you money isn't an issue and I love that, spending others money has become a lifelong hobby of mine. Basically, your mission is the same as if you were searching for a long wedding gown. As I mentioned, Amsale and Melissa Sweet have an above average amount of short gowns in their collections, so if you are close to a showroom I highly suggest that. Also, head to stores that carry many designers, like Saks Fifth Ave , Blue Belle Bridal in Savannah, Hannelore's of Olde Town in Alexandria, VA, or Hitched in Georgetown, Washington DC. You will have a better chance of seeing more gowns in your desired style. The consultants know their inventory and can pick out all of the short gowns before you even arrive. Be creative when selecting a gown, one of the main reasons it can cost so much is because it is custom made for you. Take advantage of this. You have the right to change many details, such as length. Some gowns actually come in a short style, but because they don't sell as often boutiques usually don't make samples of them. Don't be afraid to ask if a gown you like is available in a shorter style. Tell me, what do you think of short gowns? Are you tempted to try a short style or does the thought of it make you cringe?

Until we meet again, stay bridal and avoid all short gowns that conjure up images of a Britney Spears video.

Lauren