I think we can all tell from the weather outside that summer is well and truly over. Those sexy strapless dresses may look gorgeous, but who really wants goosebumps in their wedding photos? It may be cold outside, but that doesn’t mean you can’t look hot. Many designers incorporate shrugs, boleros or sleeves into their dresses specifically for the chillier weather. If you do have your heart set on that impractical spring/ summer collection gown, there are masses of capes and shawls on the high street to keep you snuggly as the temperature drops.

Benjamin Roberts has a whole collection of jackets to be worn with his designs. This Desiree style is just stunning. Simple and elegant, it is perfect for the bride who wants to channel Audrey Hepburn’s chic style. The sheer fabric is suitable for all dresses as it’s not too fussy and it doesn’t distract from the dress you are wearing. The high collar keeps those crisp winds off your neck and the bow is an adorable touch. A beautiful, sophisticated way to look sensational whilst staying warm.

If you fancy something a little more dramatic, try this Harmony shrug from Charlotte Balbier. It is made up of layers of white ruffles which, as all fashion conscious brides will know, is a huge trend in bridal fashion right now. The satin bow at the front is lovely and keeps the shrug tied tight around your shoulders to keep you warm. This style is great for adding drama to your outfit whilst keeping warm. Your guests, and your groom, won’t be able to keep his eyes off of you!

This Johanna Hehir gown in ideal for brides who don’t fancy a separate jacket. Whether it’s the hassle of taking it on and off, having nowhere to store it or being worried that you would lose it, sometimes jackets just don’t do the trick. If this sounds like you, try a dress that has been designed with attached sleeves. This Rosalind dress has gorgeous full, floaty sleeves of elbow length to keep you snug but without the potential stifling of full length sleeves. No worries about where you left that shrug either.

Don’t forget your bridesmaids! When children are cold, they don’t bite their tongue about it- they want everybody to know! How do you keep them warm and still looking like little princesses? Debenhams sell an adorable little shrug made from ivory marabou feathers with a cute rhinestoned fastening. The perfect choice for your flowergirls and in three sizes, there is a shrug to fit all of your little angels.

Even though it’s cold outside, you don’t need to sacrifice on your style. There are so many amazing jackets, shrugs, shawls, capes and all other forms of cover ups out there that you can keep toasty whilst looking beautiful. There is a cover out there for everyone, regardless of size, shape, age and style. Plus, they are so versatile that you can wear them after the big day too. You just need to worry about the rain now. Where can we get some bridal wellies?

Ok, so I know yesterday I was ranting about Ian Stuart’s short dress but this is different. These are the dresses that have a short hem the whole way round, rather than a random train attached to the back. These short dresses are stylish, youthful and fun: Perfect for the bride who wants an informal wedding. Then there’s the huge bonus of not having a dirty hem to worry about. So long as you’re careful, and don’t spill any gravy down the front, you could get away without it needing that expensive, troublesome dry clean. No worries about tripping over the hem or feeling stuffy in a full length dress either- with these short dresses, you have complete freedom of movement. You won’t even need to change for the reception.

The adorable dress above is called Marilyn after the Blonde Bombshell herself. A beautifully pretty lace effect covers the whole Charlotte Balbier dress with dainty straps and a ribbon sash with sparkling detail. I love the scalloped hem- such a delicate touch. This dress is simply made for hourglass figures like Ms Monroe with a fitted bust, nipped in waist and full skirt to skim past those curvy hips. The perfect dress for a vintage princess, this 1950s feel is hugely fashionable right now and looks great on everyone.

For brides who prefer a look that is bang up to date, have a look at this dress from Alfred Sung’s Paradise collection. A youthful, carefree style perfect for younger brides. The strapless style is ideal for summer and the bubble skirt is massive right now from the top designers to the high street shops. Best suited for slender brides, the sash and corsage at the waist creates the illusion of a waspish waist. The appliqued detail is pretty and adds to the summery mood.

If you fancy something a little more simple, this lightweight shift dress from Monsoon is great for brides of all ages, proving short dresses aren’t just for the twenty- somethings. Made for destination weddings on a sandy, sunny beach this dress will keep you cool whilst you stand under the sun. The elegant simplicity of it means you can dress it up however you like; the perfect blank canvas. What’s more, this classic style will never date so you can proudly display your wedding photos for decades to come.

Great for showing off shapely legs at a summer wedding, short dresses are something fun and unique. What could be better for the bride who likes to stand out from the crowd?

Designers are starting to unveil previews of their next collections and if there is one thing that is standing out it’s ruffles. Bold details like these are fantastic for addding some drama to an otherwise simple dress- perfect for that bride who wants all eyes on her! Better yet, statement dresses need little accessorising- the ruffles are accessories enough. Ideal for the bride on a budget or those who do not want fussy, cluttered jewellery in their look.

I have investigated this trend to bring you my three favourite ruffle detailed dresses. There’s one to suit every bridal budget so let’s take a look.

Charlotte Balbier’s gorgeous “Carrie” dress (above) is perfect for those fashionista brides. At just £600, it’s The short length is stylish and unique for a wedding dress so will look great on those brides who like to stand out in the crowd. The ruffled skirt is just adorable and creates a lovely silhouette. The waistband nips in the waist for that hourglass effect and adds a lovely little touch with the matching corsage rose. Teamed with a pair of dainty heels to elongate the legs, this dress would look absolutely stunning. It’s also a great choice for a lively reception- no worries about tripping over your train or getting the hem dusty!

Ruffles do not have to be super cute and girly. Those brides who fancy something more simple should take a look at the Pronuptia range. This “Naia” dress is a classic A-line shape with ruffle detailing around the neckline. It’s bold but not fussy, dramatic but sophisticated. Made of creased taffetta, this is a beautifully elegant dress for brides who like to keep it simple. The neckline is a unique detail that needs no dressing up and the oversized bow at the waist has a striking edge to it. This dress, around £900, is ideal for a chic city wedding.

“Princess Alexia” from Jonathan James’ Fairytale Collection is a true princess gown. The fishtail shape is flattering for all figures, hugging and accentuating those curves before flicking out into a ruffled taffeta skirt. The ruched crystal and pearl bodice adds a sense of luxury to the gown and the oversized ruffles at the thigh form an interesting flower shape. This dress can also be made with a dramatic ruffled bolero to add
to the decadent effect. At around £1300, this dress is the perfect choice for big-budget brides who want princess glamour and fairtytale drama as they walk down the aisle.

Ruffles can be worked in a way to suit every bride- whether you’re floaty feminine or classic chic; baby budget or blow the budget; full length glamour or funky short hem. Ruffle detailing is the perfect way to add bold drama to your wedding day style and make sure all eyes are on you!