Should You Have a Separate Reception Dress?
Should you have a separate wedding dress for your reception, and why? A reception dress offers the perfect opportunity to show another side of your personality and wear something a little more fun post-ceremony.Â
Selecting a wedding dress can be an overwhelming task, especially when endless options make it hard to know where to begin. Which is why many modern brides are now embracing the trend of multiple wedding day looks, finding it easier to wear different styles rather than committing to just one gown.Â
Additional dresses can provide brides with an opportunity to highlight their personality, seize different photo opportunities, or cater to practical needs, such as selecting long sleeves to combat cooler temperatures. For brides seeking versatility, switching up the look for the wedding reception could be the way to go.
Grace Bride Chelsey in Ravella by @chanellewhitacre
Crafting Your Bridal LooksÂ
While it’s common for brides to choose two wedding looks, the ultimate decision of how many dresses to wear is entirely up to you. Whether you keep things cohesive or switch it up completely, there are no rules. Â
If you’re drawn to both timeless elegance and modern styles, a classic gown for the ceremony followed by a fashion-forward change for the reception allows you to explore both. A second look offers space to express a new side of your style, whether it’s playful, bold or made to move with you on the dance floor. Â
Starting with our Nathalia gown, for a more traditional ceremony look with her intricate detailing and lace panelling. As the night progresses, seamlessly transition into our Clo Crepe gown, sure to captivate the room with her low back and flattering crepe silhouette.Â
Short wedding dresses are also quickly becoming a favourite for the reception: flirty, fun and made to move in. From sleek satin minis, like Sateen, to romantic lace numbers like Camille, they're perfect for dancing the night away.Â
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Effortlessly Transition From Ceremony to Reception
Adding a second look to your day brings a little extra planning, but with the right timing, the transition can feel completely seamless. It’s worth thinking about when the change will happen, so you can make the most of your photos, lighting, and key moments.
Talk to your photographer, planner, or venue coordinator to find out what works best within your run sheet. For some, a quick change during cocktail hour feels natural; for others, it’s all about making a statement just before the first dance. A little planning ahead goes a long way toward keeping things stress-free and giving you that exciting entrance.
Grace Bride Jaiden in Zsa Zsa by @tiffanyarendphotography
Grace Bride Amiraliela in Sateen, Chantilly Skirt & Shimmy Gloves by @shilohleath_
Grace Bride in Jagger Robe by @alissarosephotography
A Cost-Effective Way to Personalise Your Wedding Look 
If you're working with a tighter wedding budget, investing in multiple dresses might not be realistic, but that doesn’t mean you can't switch up your look. One of the simplest ways to transform your style from ceremony to reception is through thoughtful accessories.
Start with a timeless gown as your base, then build your style around it. Think detachable sleeves or gloves for the ceremony paired with a cathedral length veil. Later, change the layers and add a statement bolero or detachable bow to bring new energy to your wedding reception look.
Explore our unique wedding dresses and embrace the concept of multiple bridal looks. Whether you choose to achieve this through more than one gown, veils, and accessories, or by experimenting with various hair and makeup styles, the possibilities are endless for transforming your look from ceremony to reception.
