Even if you don't want to go goth, you can still have a themed dress.

• "Period" dresses (medieval gowns and the like) can provide a "fairy tale" feeling while still being elegant.

• Retro or fantasy designs are good choices, and can seem more "costume-y" than a traditional gown.

• Instead of a dress, you can wear a costume that reflects your interests. A pilot, scuba diver, mountain climber, or even a rodeo star make for entertaining weddings.

• A harvest-theme wedding could accent more traditional clothing with autumn- or jewel- toned accessories. A ribbon tied at the bride's waist, a shawl, or even a hat will be a beautiful accent in deep green, wine, gold, or blue.

• Dress in a traditional gown decorated with red beads to look like blood.

• If you're dead set on a white dress, look for one with gothic style and detailing, such as a corseted ball gown or an empire waist.

• Jan writes: Not only was I born on Halloween, but I was married on it as well. My dress was dark green with a black lace overlay. It was a great wedding!

• Dress your bridesmaids in traditional-style dresses, but have each one in a different fall color.

• Many traditional bridesmaid gowns are available in luxurious fabrics such as velvet, and in black or dark jewel tones (especially in the winter).

• Designer Jeannie Nitro does goth bridal gowns.

• Dress your bridesmaids as witches--either all in the standard black-pointy-hat look, or have each be a different wtich from books or movies (the Wicked Witch of the West, Baba Yaga, etc.) Pair them with groomsmen dressed as ghouls.

• Gothic Martha Stewart suggests: If your etiquette conscience won't allow you to dress your bridesmaids in black, they could wear sienna with black velvet cameo chokers, or black lace shawls, or some other spooky accessory.