Brides in modern times continue to find ways to skirt the line between tradition and contemporary trends. From digital wedding invitations to unorthodox wedding locals, everyone seeks uniqueness and that one of a kind feel for their wedding day. Wearing two dresses on your big day is one such way to have your cake and eat it too, as the saying goes. 

The perfect wedding dress is something every bride looks forward to. Being able to pick out two dresses is an exciting idea that more and more brides are taking into consideration for their nuptials. Let’s go over all of the benefits and the challenges of choosing two dresses instead of one and see where you land on the debate of one dress or two.

Benefits of Having Two Wedding Dresses

Comfort

While extraordinarily beautiful, wedding gowns aren’t known for their comfort and mobility. Tight bodices, heavy beading, and long veils or trains can render a bride restricted when it comes to being able to dance, mingle and party the night away after the ceremony. 

Having the chance to do a wardrobe change into a second, more comfortable dress for the reception and party could really help the bride be much more at ease and comfortable while she celebrates her new life as a Mrs. 

Sub out the wedding gown for a gorgeous party dress and the high heels for flats that match and dance the night away with your family and friends on the happiest day of your life.

Everyone Loves an Outfit Change

Being able to choose another dress for your wedding is an exciting endeavor and one that can help show off your personal style and creativity even after the wedding. Take the outfit change as an opportunity to let your flair for fashion shine and choose a bright or printed dress that allows for you to cut a rug while still being the center of attention. Don’t forget to have fun picking out a pair of shoes to match your reception dress as well.

Weather

Depending on your wedding location, two dresses may be more of a necessity than a nicety. Day to night, indoors to outdoors, weather can change at the drop of a hat and you don’t want to either freeze or burn up in your expensive wedding dress. Reception parties can get quite heated with all the dancing and drinking, so changing into something more weather appropriate will make sure you are comfortable and not running for the nearest fan to stand in front of. 

Preserve Wedding Dress

As careful as you may be, many factors after the wedding and during the reception threaten to turn that gorgeous ivory into a stained mess, and we don’t just mean your dancing uncle with the very full beer. Wearing two dresses eliminates the issue of having to watch out for every hand, drink or speck of dirt while you try and enjoy your reception. Instead, opt for a second dress and dance the night away without having to worry about getting your dress dirty.

Challenges of Having Two Wedding Dresses

Expense

The average wedding dress in the US costs around $1600 with alterations. And with dresses ranging from $500 to over $6000, it might be daunting to have to find a way to afford another dress for your reception. If you can find a way to increase your budget for your dress, then make sure you are getting a second dress that is worth every penny.

Won’t Look Like the Bride Anymore

Some may worry changing out of the wedding dress will take the focus off of them for the rest of the night as they won’t look like the traditional bride anymore. This fear is largely unfounded, as there are countless reception-friendly dresses that convey the same elegance and prestige as your ceremony gown. Some brides simply find a second dress that works with their wedding accessories or even by adding a wedding tiara. 

Too Much for the Bride to Worry About

With all of the things you have to deal with on your wedding day, keeping track of an entirely separate look could be too much added stress for some brides. Wedding planners can handle some of this for you, but if you cannot afford one, you have to get creative with how you will store or keep the dress ready for a quick change after the wedding. 

That said, if you know what you’re getting yourself into and plan ahead, having a second dress for the reception can be the perfect way to look gorgeous and stay comfortable on your feet all day (and night).

Gorgeous and Unique Looks for Every Bride

At Sposa Mia Bridal, we pride ourselves in providing you with award-winning service as you search for your perfect dress (or dresses.) We offer a selection of over 500+ wedding gowns that range from elegant to ethereal to summer chic. Our site has some of the most sought-after designers in the industry and we are continuously growing and updating our selection as the seasons change.

To schedule your visit, please give us a call at the boutique or take a moment to complete our appointment request form. We will get back to you as quickly as possible to confirm the details!