Newsday.com: Designers go short, sassy for bridal looks

Designers go short, sassy for bridal looks

BY BARBARA SCHULER
Newsday Staff Writer

September 14, 2007, 3:57 PM EDT

Not every woman wants to walk down the aisle trailing yards of tulle or lace. And not every women has to.

Bridal gown designers have taken to throwing a few short dresses into their collections -- good options for second weddings, low-key, informal ceremonies, or for brides who want a different dress for the reception.

Oscar de la Renta offered several shorties in his most recent collection -- a flirty satin with feathers peeking from a full skirt, a more sophisticated sheath, also with feathers at the hem, and a lovely shimmery dress with a shawl collar that falls gracefully over one shoulder.

The Amsale collection had a dress for those who like things both ways -- the spare gown finished just above the knees in front but dipped to a full-length train in the back.

At Vera Wang, a fluttery dress was perfect for a garden wedding, while Caro.lina Herrera did a sleek embroidered organza, a dress we suspect might appeal to a slightly older bride. And from Priscilla of Boston's Platinum collection, a strapless lace mini with double-ruffle hem and a big flower at the hip. You might just see that one at some super sweet 16 parties.