The wedding industry took one of the hardest hits by the COVID-19 pandemic, and with the world slowly returning to normal, wedding celebrations are set to be taking over the summer. "I fully expect to see some brides embrace this idea of a post-pandemic 'Roaring '20s' resurgence and really go all out, and then others will feel more confident than ever before in doing something more pared back and practical," says Alexandra Macon, founder of online bridal destination Over The Moon, in an interview with Coveteur.

With a wedding season fast approaching like never before, the rapidly changing expectations on what a wedding is have allowed for each couple to define their own nuptials. "This freedom to do what makes the most sense individually and not feel as pressured to do whatever the norm is considered to be is one small positive to come out of everything that's happened in this industry over the past year," continues Macon.

Regardless of the size of the event, one thing for sure is that every bride-to-be is searching for the perfect dress. Here are some new, pandemic-proof styles to watch out for this wedding season:

*Short Dresses

From tea-length dresses, hitting right above the ankle, to above-the-knee styles, shorter hemlines are making waves in bridal showrooms. And they're not just for civil ceremonies; short dresses can be big on personality, especially when paired with a statement shoe. Add a unique veil and they are perfect for the ceremony, and with the shorter hemline, short dresses can transition to be used for the ceremony, second look and beyond.

Stephanie White, founder and creative director of Odylyne the Ceremony, told Brides Magazine the inspiration for her wildly popular design "Mini Caspian" was "offering something different with a twist" she says. "It's bridal, but it's not bridal." The dress, with its '80s undertones, Victorian-era neckline and flirty skirt, was a hit over the past year, along with countless other little white dresses.

Popular with brides looking for a modern approach to matrimony, short dresses are perfect for a world dealing with the aftereffects of COVID-19. As weddings became smaller, hemlines became shorter. Brides planning to elope or planning a smaller, more intimate ceremony gravitate toward these spunky looks. As couples shift wedding plans to include a small ceremony or elopement and a later, larger celebration, short dresses are a practical investment that can be used for both events. For brides looking to celebrate with a different look for every moment, the increase in short-dress designs allows for more options when looking for outfits for other wedding engagements.

*Transitional Pieces

Like short dresses, transitional pieces are forecasted to be all the rage for the upcoming wedding season. Removeable capes, overskirts and sleeves allow for every timeless look to have two-in-one potential.

Bridal designs such as White One by Pronovias Group, Justin Alexander Signature and Alexandra Grecco are all leaders in the industry for this style. If splurging on a designer dress with multiple pieces is not an option, there are many ways to add elements to enhance a simpler dress.

"Detachable sleeves, like jeweled arm cuffs, hemlines and trains can all transform a dress in surprising ways," says Jalona Marie Falkner, owner of Jalona Marie Bridal, in an interview with The Knot. Adding small details can create a two-in-one look under the constraints of a tighter budget. Capes are a favorite of Falkner's as well. "They are fun to wear, always stylish and can add as much glam or elegance as you want," she continues.

*Not-So-White Wedding Gowns

One of the more surprising trends making way is the incorporation of color. While colored dresses have always been around, the unique styles have not had as much traction as they do now. Pale tones such as blush, mint and champagne are popular for brides wanting a more unique style, and designers are incorporating colors through floral and lace motifs, allowing for a more subtle pop.

Celebrity and bridal stylist Micaela Erlanger noted that color and print are on her mind in an interview with Fashion Week Daily. "I've always been a big proponent of thinking outside the box, imagining a more modern but still timeless approach," says Erlanger. "I think this idea that you have to be in white is a bit archaic. There's something really nice about the tradition, but I think it's kind of exciting and new to reimagine the way you will look."