How to Choose Your Perfect Wedding Reception Gown

Why do some brides want a second gown for the reception? Simple, really. Ceremony wedding dresses, like ball gowns, can be a bit bulky and awkward to move freely in for several hours. If you love to dance, this could be a problem, right? Enter the reception wedding dress! Keep the below tips in mind when you start shopping for your perfect second gown.

Comfort is Key

What is the point of buying a reception gown if it’s not comfortable? But, the idea of “comfortable” differs from bride to bride. Some brides will want a loose gown so that they may move around freely and not feel restricted. Other brides feel super comfy in a tighter, less formal gown. That’s totally up to you. When you try the dress on, picture yourself at your reception dancing the night away, if it feels right, you may have found your gown!

Mind Your Budget

By the time you start dress shopping your gown budget should be in place. Remember to include the reception gown in this equation! Some brides make the mistake of buying a ceremony gown, then months later realize they want a reception gown as well. This may put a strain on your budget and cause unnecessary stress. Nobody wants that!

Express Yourself

No matter what bridal style you are… traditional bride, romantic bride, bohemian bride, sophisicate bride, or modern bride, you need to find a second dress that compliments your ceremony wedding gown, your venue and your personality. It’s also the perfect chance to be a little daring! Love lots of sparkle (see Mila below)? Go for it! Want to show some leg? Do it! Love color? Pick one! There are no real rules with the reception dress. Have fun with it!

Be Picky

Just because a second wedding gown is not as formal as the ceremony gown doesn’t mean you should settle. After all, you’ll be wearing the reception gown much longer, so you want to feel just as gorgeous as you did coming down the aisle. Take your time and choose a wedding gown that flatters you in every way and that you love just as much as the first dress. Don’t forget photos will be taken in this gown as well!

Below is a slideshow of some of our top picks for reception wedding gowns. Enjoy!