Should You Choose a Second Wedding Dress?

In the whirlwind of planning, the all-important wedding wardrobe takes center stage. The dichotomy of choosing between one exquisite statement wedding dress or slipping into a second gown for the reception allures. Weighing up the beauty of tradition with ease and creative expression, we explore the pros and cons of a wedding wardrobe and curate an edit of looks to inspire.

One Statement Dress

For brides romanced by tradition, a single gown becomes the sartorial star of the celebration. Selecting one piece suits the simplicity of a more effortless, understated wedding or elopement. Conversely, for those drawn to the artful drama of a statement gown, investing in a single look allows experimentation with exquisite fabrications, unexpected silhouettes and couture-like finishes – wearable art that is usually only indulged in on a wedding day. And given the energy and budget poured into crafting this masterpiece or finding the one, hanging it right back up after a fleeting ceremony reveal, can feel like a bit of a crime.

If you’ve chosen a voluminous gown, bear in mind you might feel a little restricted as the night unfolds. Otherwise, hitch it up or bustle the train, pour some more champagne and revel in the dramatic beauty of it all. A nice in between we’d suggest is to find a gown with a detachable skirt (Vivienne Westwood does this masterfully!).

“Investing in a single look allows experimentation with exquisite fabrications, unexpected silhouettes and couture-like finishes – wearable art that is usually only indulged in on a wedding day.”

The Second Dress or Wedding Wardrobe

As bridal is embraced by so many ready-to-wear designers, traditional wedding gowns have dissolved into sea of sartorial choices for modern couples. Perfect for those romanced by the tradition of a ceremonial gown, but allured by experimental pieces infused with personal style, a second look or wedding wardrobe brings playful diversity. 

Slipping into a second gown obviously comes at a higher price tag, and means that show-stopping ceremony gown will be worn for just a fleeting moment. However, curating multiple looks to transition from ceremony to reception dinner and beyond certainly offer plenty of positives. As day segues to dusk, a second look creates beautiful drama for a night of revelry. An invitation to make bolder choices, a decadent dinner and dance floor calls for avant-garde styles, ornate embellishments, or luminous silks in fluid fabrications that move with ease.

As you curate a wedding wardrobe, do so with intention – consider the space, aesthetic, the mood and feeling you want to evoke and, most importantly, what you feel best in. While reveling in the options, let your instinct and individuality guide you.

Find inspiration in these real brides who have opted for a second dress, as well as an edit of looks you can shop online.

“An invitation to make bolder choices, a decadent dinner and dance floor calls for avant-garde styles, ornate embellishments, or luminous silks in fluid fabrications that move with ease.”

Georgia Fowler

Nora Attal

Francesca Hung

Danielle Copperman

See a handpicked edit of bridal designers on our Directory.