( Ft. Washington , PA – January, 2006) He pops the question. She says yes. And in just a split second… her life has changed. Now the focus is all about the wedding; the breathtaking nuptial site, the ‘picture perfect’ dress.

“Brides are enchanting. They are animated, energized and charmingly determined,” comments Michael Shettel, lead designer for Alfred Angelo. “We’ve been in this business for over 75 years and the one thing that hasn’t changed is a bride’s passion for finding her storybook dress. After all, it’s her biggest moment. This is the dress she will remember forever.”

This season brides step out in romantic goddess dresses, fairy-tale poofy ball gowns or elegant lace and tulle silhouettes. There’s no end to today’s offerings in bridal land. The fabrics are sumptuous, the beading is divine, and the colors are fantastic.

Wait…color? Do brides wear color?

Yes, bridal gown shoppers. There’s a big change in standard bridal white.

The latest trend – a splash of color! Victorian lilac, pink sorbet or striking navy; pure tradition is out. Adventure is in for brides who dream in color!

“It’s a new twist with a traditional flair. White or ivory gowns are now color accented

in sashes, waist band ribbons, or extravagantly embroidered trains with colored panel insets. We offer a palette of 46 colors,” commented Shettel. “Color is an exciting way to accent the finest details. This is becoming a very popular choice.”

Additionally, a few more trends emerging are:

-Draping and billowing ‘pick-up skirts’ fashioned after french ruching couture design

-Sexy charmeuse sheaths in body-loving styles

-Destination gowns; romantic gowns with underskirts that can be removed for the more casual ‘after ceremony’ celebration. This is a great way to go for resort beach weddings.

-Customized trains. The option to pick your style. Pick your length.

-Vintage influences merged with contemporary flair

-Silk strapless beaded bodices with extravagantly fashioned ball gown skirting

-Color accented gowns can be designed to match mother’s gowns, bridesmaids and flower girl dresses

Alfred Angelo is unveiling their 2006 collection during their grand opening of the 17 new bridal shops at the 17 former BridesMart locations in Texas and Oklahoma . Brides can also view styles at the Bridal Extravaganza in Houston , January 7, 8 and the Dallas Bridal Show, January 14,15. On their runway will be Miss Texas modeling their newest creations featuring exciting skirt treatments, great fabrics, color accents and exquisite details designed by Michael Shettel. Alfred Angelo is also showing at the Palmer Events Center in Austin, January 7, 8; the San Antonio Center on January 8 and the Oklahoma City Doubletree Hotel on January 7.

“As trends continue to give brides a stunning array of assortments, we are finding the

orders for customization increasing. Brides are clamoring for individuality; the desire to be different and unique. Whatever her fantasy, there’s a fabulous gown to flatter her,” commented Shettel.

Alfred Angelo gowns are available in over 1,000 bridal shops nationwide and at 34 Alfred Angelo designer-owned stores. Every style is available in sizes 2-28W in short, tall and regular length, and shades of white and ivory. Trains can be extended on most styles and many designs are available. Prices start at just $299. For more information and store locations, visit

alfredangelo.com. Call 877.7ANGELO for exclusive Alfred Angelo designer stores, or call

866.8ANGLEO for stores selling Alfred Angelo dresses anywhere in the US .