White off the rack

Bridal shops aren't the only places to look for your dream gown

BY BARBARA SCHULER
barbara.schuler@newsday.com

January 20, 2008

Not every bride wants to look so, well, bridal. For them, great dresses can be found

everywhere, from department store racks to designer boutiques. At spring Fashion Week last fall, white dresses appeared in many a collection, and plenty of them would make stunning wedding gowns.

For sheer elegance, there's Oscar de la Renta's chiffon goddess dress or Badgley Mischka's column gown with just a touch of beading. Ralph Lauren's "My Fair Lady" collection had a gorgeous ruffled number with a high collar and little satin jacket, and Donna Karan had a lovely halter gown perfect for a garden wedding.

Funkier brides might choose Betsey Johnson's lace mini (also a great dress if you're looking for something to change into for the reception). And if you're thinking City Hall or Vegas, perhaps Charles Nolan's white pantsuit (which he showed complete with a flower girl).

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