The strapless gown may be here to stay, but white is sharing the spotlight these days. Brides shopping for the perfect wedding attire can find a hint of color and embroidery in the mix.

Opulence and embellishments are the latest trends, according to Kimberly Minor, vice president of merchandise managers of bridal for Philadelphia-based David's Bridal. Minor also describes this year's bridal fashion as ladylike, sophisticated, vintage and retro with all the glamour of Hollywood. The modern look of brooches and the fitted bodices of everyday fashion also are walking down the aisle.

BARRY WILLIAMS /Special (ENLARGE)
Alicia Williams models this Anne Barge classic V-neck princess gown. It features pearl silk satin with low inverted pleats and midriff accented in Alencon lace appliques. A bias silk satin empire band extends to the back drop waist with flat bow and chapel train, $3,730. Matching Alencon lace chapel length mantilla, $1,800.
(ENLARGE)
Make A Match pieces at David's Bridal are popular for the wedding party. All pieces are sold separately. Tops range from $59 to $89, and skirts from $59 to $99. Popular colors this fall include apple, right, and mystic purple.
Special (ENLARGE)
Exquisitely glamorous, this gown is cut of softest ivory satin. The low back laces up, exposing a soft pink inset. Tied with floor-length ribbons, the 'apron' skirt curves gently from waist to hem. Catching the light from every angle is metallic beading in an all-over floral pattern. (Oleg Cassini 2004 Collection at David's Bridal; $850)
Special (ENLARGE)
A flattering floral creation, this dramatic organza gown was inspired by a lush country garden in full bloom. The bodice and skirt are uniquely embroidered with exquisite, richly colored bead work, providing a lush, romantic feel, ideal for the eye-catching centerpiece of a formal wedding. (Oleg Cassini 2004 Collection at David's Bridal; $1.200)
EMAIL THIS PRINT THIS MOST POPULAR

"It's the whole importance of the ball gown," Minor said. "It's the princess bride and she's looking for a full skirt. Strapless will always be important and the halter is really important in bridal. More brides also are doing optional wraps and coverup

pieces."

The traditional white gown is not the only choice for the big day. Colors, including ivory, pearl and pink, with accents of taupe and platinum, are showing up on the racks. A bridesmaid's dress is not the only color at the altar.

"A girl wants to be as stylish as a bridesmaid — not everything is traditional [white]," Minor said. "We are seeing a more contemporary girl."

The stylish bridesmaids are wearing mix-and-match separates in bold, rich tones and colors. Wine and green are strong on the color palette and emerge in equally beautiful fabrics from taffeta to velvet. Even bridal gowns are getting in on the trend of using a variety of fabrics, including some of the more popular stretch materials.

While the princess bride can try on her fantasy dress in a number of shops when she's seeking the perfect gown, Atlanta bridal designer Anne Barge's salon in the Four Seasons is truly a dream come true. Her classic gowns are inspired by history and youthful daydreams of European royalty like Princess Grace and Princess Margaret, who set the bar for her creative imagination.

"It is some of those things that make it more special than a white gown. It's the whole picture — refined and tasteful," Barge said. "I take elements from history, such as a basque waist, an open square neckline, the Edwardian period. I like to take pieces from history and put it in with the modern girl's style. Blend a 1930s bouquet and the 2000 bride."

Barge's designs continue to incorporate the strapless trend, and add color in hand-sewn metallic embroidery and beads. Pure silk and lace are sometimes incorporated in the custom gowns. She said simple and elegant is the way to go.

"Part of my job is making someone's dream come true," Barge said.

Bridal gowns range in price to fit any bride's budget. Most retail chains and boutiques offer gowns priced from a few hundred dollars, climbing to the thousands of dollars for a custom design.

"There is a new generation of brides," Barge said. "Bridal has evolved to a sophistication — a statement of who that girl is and how she is unique. Keep in mind brides from ages 25 to 45, with an average in the 30s, are looking for a dress. For a good silk dress you may pay $2,500 to $3,000; add embroidery and it goes higher.

"Everybody has a different level of comfort. You don't have to spend $50,000, but if custom means that much to you, you can't get that for $200."