Wedding Reception Dresses: Why You Might Want to Consider One
As a Hudson Valley wedding planner and designer, I’ve seen a growing trend in brides choosing to wear a wedding reception dress—a second outfit change after the ceremony. While this isn’t a new concept, more and more brides are opting for a second dress for comfort, practicality, or personal style.
Whether you’re planning a New England wedding, a Hudson Valley celebration, or a destination wedding, here’s what you need to know about reception dresses and why you might want to consider one.
Why Change Into a Wedding Reception Dress?
There are several reasons why a bride might want a second dress for the reception:
1. Comfort & Practicality
Wedding dresses, especially ballgowns or those with intricate beading or lace, can be heavy and restrictive. If you’re having an outdoor wedding in the middle of August, wearing a full-length, layered gown all night might not be ideal. A lighter, more breathable dress can make it easier to move around, dance, and enjoy your reception without feeling weighed down.
2. Confidence & Style
Some brides choose a sleek, fitted ceremony dress but want something more flowy and comfortable for the reception. Even if you love the way your dress looks, you might not feel comfortable wearing it for hours, especially if it’s form-fitting, delicate, or heavy.
A second dress allows you to embrace a different style—maybe something with a fun slit, fringe, or sequins—that lets you move freely and feel more like yourself.
3. The Shoe Dilemma & Bustle Issues
If you want to change your shoes at any point, one of the biggest, most overlooked issues to consider is when you get your wedding dress altered, the hem is tailored to the height of your wedding shoes (typically heels). But after hours on your feet, you may want to switch to flats or sneakers.
Here’s the problem:
If you take off your heels, your dress will be too long.
A dress then drags on the floor and becomes a tripping hazard, not just for you but for your guests.
If someone steps on your dress, it could tear your bustle, leading to a cascade of fabric that needs to be fixed mid-reception.
After planning hundreds of weddings, I can confidently say that more than 50% of bustles break at some point during the reception. I’ve personally sewn more wedding dresses than I ever expected, and I always recommend reinforcing bustles with fishing line or embroidery thread to help prevent breakage.
If you’re worried about your bustle tearing or guests stepping on your gown, a reception dress eliminates the issue entirely.
What to Consider When Choosing a Reception Dress
If you decide to have a second dress, here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Fabric & Fit
Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton, chiffon, silk, or crepe.
Consider a shorter hemline or a high slit for easier movement.
2. Ease of Changing
Make sure the dress is easy to slip into—especially if you plan on a quick change.
Avoid anything with too many buttons or a complicated corset.
A wedding reception dress isn’t a necessity, but it’s something to consider if you want comfort, ease, and a fresh look for the party. Whether you’re planning a New England wedding, a Hudson Valley event, or a destination wedding, a second dress can be a stylish and practical addition to your day.
And if you decide to keep your wedding dress on all night? Just be mindful of your shoes, bustle, and potential dress mishaps!