Fashions come and go for walking down the aisle as well as the catwalk. Yet often it is practicality that drives the decision. It's unlikely that a meringue dress could be worn again and it's hard to keep going through doors sideways on! We've been chatting with designer Tobi Hannah about raising the hemline stakes ...

So many brides spend a fortune on an elaborate long gown with an equally long train for the church ceremony then realize it will be almost impossible to dance the night away in it at the post-wedding party. With a short wedding dress, it’s easy! A shorter style also suits the petite bride who may feel overwhelmed by layers of fabric in a long gown.

Short gowns are perfect for weddings abroad or in hot climates and won’t get covered in sand if saying “I do” on the beach. They can be teamed with a calf-length coat jacket, fur hat and mitts for an ultra cool winter wedding look. It’s also far more practical than trying to put a long winter coat over a multi-layered long bridal gown when the temperature drops.

If you’ve ever wondered why women looked so feminine and elegant in the 1950’s, it’s because the tailoring was perfect. With high waist detailing and tea length A-line skirts, the ‘Golden Age of Couture’ has returned.

The A/W 2011 collection for Brode by Tobi Hannah favours 50’s-style dresses with delicate layers of tulle and lace, sheer chiffons and luxurious silks is the perfect starting point if you are inspired by the 1950’s or you are looking for a non-conventional short or tea length dress.

The collection which be showing at Harrogate Bridal Exhibition between14th- 17th of March 2010. For more information about Tobi Hannah’s Brode Collection, please visit www.tobihannah.co.uk For your local stockist enquiries please call 01322 316 084