Lela Rose bridesmaid dress.

In honor of bridal fashion week, designer Lela Rose has been kind enough to answer your wedding day style questions.

Dear Lela,

I’m on a budget and I’m planning to have a DIY wedding, however I want to have a wedding dress that doesn’t go over $500! I also am seeking an off-white short (knee-length or above-the-knee) dress since I’m petite (5’3″). What do you suggest?

Lela says: I would suggest visiting the major department stores (Bloomingdales, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom) and online resources (Shopbop.com, Net-a-porter.com, etc) at the end of May/early June. All of the spring/summer 2011 merchandise will have just gone on sale and I am confident you will be able to find a short summer dress in white/off-white/ivory that could work perfectly for your wedding. Also, remember that most tailors only charge about $20 for a hem so if you find something too long, that’s a very economical way of making it the perfect length. I also think that you will easily find something for less than $500!! With sales as deep as 75% off, you can find something designer and spectacular for a great price.

Got a question for Lela? Email us on tips@fashionista.com or write them in the comments section. xo, F