SAY It's that one special day that millions dream about — their wedding day. And Americans spend millions dressing for the occasion that will be remembered in photographs for a life- time. This year the formalwear and bridal in- dustry are celebrating, too. "Optimism is prevailing," says Harvey We- instein, chairman and CEO of Lord West For- mals, a leading apparel producer in the black-tie business. Mr. Weinstein credits much of this height- ened sense of style in wedding apparel to the handsome, new executive couple in the White House. He also believes that young people are much more interested in having a traditional ceremony, but updating it by wearing more fashionable attire. THE BRIDE Choosing a wedding dress can be one of the hardest decisions any bride faces. Most brides don't wait until the day before; instead they spend hours and hours shopping for the one perfect gown. Fulfilling the desire of every woman for the perfect dress is an ongoing challenge to Michelle Piccione, designer for Alfred Ange- lo DreamMaker, one of the world's largest manufacturers of bridal gowns. BRIDE As one of Michigan's most exclusive shops, we'll have plenty to show in the coming weeks: exciting Trunk Shows by the world's leading bridal designers! IlISSa January 26-30 Sara's Custom Headpieces - February 7-13 Priscilla - Mardi 3-6 Bianchi - Mardi 17-20 Wafters & Watters-march Dramatic full length sheaths are popular. 17-20 BRIDE 249 Pierce Street, Birmingham • 644-7492, 644-7200 CAPTURING YOUR FINEST MOMENTS FOR 38 YEARS A 7 , LEO -11- IK%1G1 MASTER OF I 0 352-7030 26571 W. TWELVE MILE RD. AT NORTHWESTERN HWY. Alfred Angelo gowns retail from $300 to $1,000. Ms. Piccione highlights several silhouettes in her bridal collection. Simple, princess styles in soft white crepe feature a bodice and cap sleeves accented with hand beaded re-em- broidered lace. Off-the-shoulder ball gowns are also pop- ular, trimmed with satin roses and petals. For the sophisticated bride, Ms. Piccione suggests a dramatic full length sheath of metallic brocade topped off with a shoulder skimming collar and a back peplum that ends in a semicathedral train of sparkle tulle, eas- ily detachable for dancing. Brides have also been asking for soft, clingy dresses in crepe, beaded chiffon or charmeuse. THE BRIDAL PARTY Black and white are still strong for brides- maid's dresses, but garden-fresh florals in linen and chintz are blossoming at Alfred An- gelo. (continued on page 22) 20 • JAN t JARY/ FE FS Ft JARY 1 94)4 • ..(-711(1_1-2 Do'