Costume change: second (or third) wedding reception outfit choices
It used to be about the main star of the show: your wedding dress! But more and more brides are choosing second or third options after a serious case of decision paralysis! We explore some wedding reception outfit choices.
Who says you only get one dress? Second (or third!) wedding reception looks are having a major moment, and brides are using the chance to show off their personality, make a statement, or just finally dance without tripping over a train. From chic short dresses and pearl-studded minis to flirty fringe and dramatic hats, these wedding reception outfit choices prove that the afterparty is where the fashion fun really begins.
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The second look? Well, that’s all for partying!
Short and structured
Sleek sophistication yet a little playful. That’s what this look is all about. A white structured mini dress can be dressed up or down, however you like. It also pops against any colour scheme so you don’t have to figure out your theme before saying “Yes” to the dress. This look is the perfect partner to a formal and structured wedding dress, the playful little sister!
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Short, structured, with some accents
Much like the previous dress, this wedding reception outfit is short, structured, but with a little more accent to it. The pearl accents bring this dress from day to night, and the sheer wedding gloves with it? Well, colour us impressed! Now this is how you pull off a trend and make it all yours.
We explore bridal accessories here.
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Short, structured, all the accents
Wham, bam, now this is glam! For the bride who does a lot, you’ve finally found a look to suit your personality. It’s sexy, sleek and ultra modern. Not for the faint of heart, the short dress will still inspire grandmas as the intricate detailing is enough to floor anyone.
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Relaxed linen
Got married in a tux but it’s a sweltering day? Never fear, isn’t that why linen was invented? Bring your Santorini wedding dreams to life by creating an easy, breezy, coastal look with your reception outfit. An open shirt, a singlet underneath, it’s one of those ‘doesn’t have to try too hard to be sexy’ looks that we are all about!
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Relaxed linen is a contrast to black tie in this wedding reception outfit. Source: Instagram.
No hat, no play!
If you wanted to have your fashion moment, the reception might just be the place to do it. For the brides keeping it very traditional on the altar, let your second look and wedding reception outfit really be you! A hat with a veil attached just screams ‘party!’ and it gives a classic second look a bit of a modern spin.
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Backless silk
Some brides want to be a little more covered up when they say ‘I do’, but that doesn’t mean they want to keep that the whole way through the evening. A sexy, silky low-back dress is perfect for brides who might have been breathing their way through a tight bodice. This look is so night-time coded. It gives the energy of a smoky jazz cocktail bar.
What shouldn’t be worn to a wedding? We explore.
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Backless silk
Some brides want to be a little more covered up when they say ‘I do’, but that doesn’t mean they want to keep that the whole way through the evening. A sexy, silky low-back dress is perfect for brides who might have been breathing their way through a tight bodice. This look is so night-time coded. It gives the energy of a smoky jazz cocktail bar.
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Big bows
A structured bodice but this time complemented by a big playful bow on the back, this second wedding look is effortlessly chic with a touch of retro glamour. Paired with statement earrings and a champagne flute in hand, this outfit captures the joy and glamour of the night, proving that a shorter hemline can still bring major impact.
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Bubble skirt
A nod to the early 2000s, my millennials will understand the impact of a bubble skirt. This time, it’s wedding chic! Perfect for twirling on the dancefloor or making a bold reception entrance, the bubble hem adds a sense of nostalgia. Pair it with sleek accessories or a statement shoe and you’ll be making a standout choice for your second look (guaranteed to be as unforgettable as your first).
Don’t want to wear a dress? We’ve got some killer alternatives!
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Off-the-shoulder draping
Draping is definitely the theme of the season, but did you know you can incorporate that trend into your dress as well? This off-the-shoulder draped neckline with a lustrous satin fabric is equal parts timeless and daring. Paired with pointed heels and minimal accessories, this look balances elegance with a touch of red-carpet energy, which makes it ideal for that BAM second entrance.
Find out more about wedding draping.
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Floor length fringe
Straddling the line between festival and wedding, this second wedding reception outfit choice is playful and ready to party. If you’re doing your hair up and formal for your aisle look, make this one a more relaxed style, and party the night away!
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