One of the first things a bride should do, after setting a wedding date and confirming the location and officiant, is select her wedding gown. On average, brides try on 12 gowns before choosing their favorite, and 20% of brides cry when they find "The One."

More designers than ever are creating bridal collections, and BRIDE'S singles out the very best dresses from the latest New York runway shows. This season's fashions have something for every kind of bride-sweet, sexy, glamorous, girly, racy, refined. Slim and minimal silhouettes showcase dramatic skirts with sparkle, while the satin strapless ballgown is a perennial favorite for evening enchantment.

For the bride who wants to show some skin, low backs and thigh high slits turn up the sizzle factor. Greco-Roman silk sheaths worthy of an empress move with the body in soft, fluid waves. And for a vintage touch, with contemporary updates, the mini wedding dress makes a return for 2003.

With expanded coverage of style trends, BRIDE'S presents the most glorious gowns for every bride.