how do i choose a dress for my reception

How -- and Why -- to Choose a Reception Dress

• Keep It Practical. No long dress means no tripping on the dance floor. There are some practical considerations that may...
• Inject Some Style. This is the time to be formal. The reception is the time for fun. Your personal style can play a big...
• Plan Your Entrance. Your bridesmaids can help you get out of your wedding dress...

Full Answer

What to wear to a wedding reception?

These days nuptials can be casual, overtly formal or even themed (shudder) – ranging from the unusual: ‘dress Hawaii’, to the ultra-specific: ‘wear pink stripes’. Arguably even more confusing is figuring out what to wear to a wedding reception. If you’re only attending half the day, can you make half the effort? Of course not.

What should I look for when buying a wedding dress?

Before you start dress shopping, decide whether you want a casual garden-party-themed wedding or a formal, romantic affair. Always keep the venue and theme in mind as you browse gowns, because the last thing you want is for your dress to clash with your overall wedding style.

Should you change your wedding dress for the reception?

If you know that you want to change into a shorter number for the reception, but don't want to deviate from your first look entirely, consider choosing a second dress that references the first. Both of this bride's wedding dresses featured long sleeves (this one was by Jenny Kim Couture ), which eased the transition from service to party.

Can you wear a mini dress to a wedding reception?

You don't have to wear a long gown all night. This bride changed into a light and airy sparkly mini dress for the wedding reception, chosen specifically because it matched the venue's disco balls. Nothing makes dancing easier on your wedding day than changing from a big ballgown into a jumpsuit with a fitted bodice and wide-leg trousers.

Do you need a different dress for reception?

One outfit for the entire day for guests is the standard protocol, though the bride may change her dress depending on the nature of the ceremony and reception. However, guests sometimes change their ensembles as well.

Do people change dresses for reception?

A reception dress is often referred to as a "second look" and is an outfit some brides choose to change into after their ceremony.

What should I wear for reception party?

A simple mid-tone suit in a lightweight wool will suit most wedding receptions, year round. It's both formal enough for the occasion, and light enough to deal with the heat of the marquee or dance floor. If required, wear a tie, but consider a more interesting, bright or textured one – a knitted tie will always work.

Which Colour is best for reception?

If you're planning to infuse some color to your reception look and wondering what are some popular picks this year, read on and get inspired!Serenity Blue. ... Cerise Pink. ... Illusion Black. ... Royal Blue. ... Rose Gold. ... Plum Purple / Orchid. ... Emerald Green. ... Gold.

Do bridesmaids wear the same dress to the reception?

While this trend is popular and accepted for brides, there's a growing sense that bridesmaids, too, will follow suit. Why? If they're being honest, bridesmaids prefer to change out of their formal bridesmaids attire in favor of something more comfortable, or more suited to their personal style.

Does your reception dress have to be white?

While most wedding dresses are white, your reception dress doesn't have to be. Feel free to pick a color that matches your theme or the groom's tie. They also can be much shorter, like knee-length or tea-length.

What should a mature woman wear to a wedding?

A fit-and-flare dress, knee-length or longer, can be chic and flattering. If the wedding isn't super formal, you could buy shop for something that's re-wearable — more of a cocktail dress vs. a ball gown. Dress up this piece with a sparkly bracelet and your best heels.

What is the wedding color for 2022?

The buget-friendly greenery is ideal for weddings in any season, with any theme. In the past, greenery is only frequently used in the floral arrangements and bouquets, but now we are seeing more and more green hues becoming popular colors of 2022 weddings, such as sage and emerald green.

Which color is best for reception bride?

7 gorgeous color combination for Indian wedding outfitsBlue & Gold. A pop of metallic gold and hue of navy blue are ideal for an evening wedding or reception. ... Blush pink and powder. ... Traditional red. ... Shades of Pink with Gold. ... Maroon and gold. ... All gold. ... Mint green.

What is the most popular color for weddings?

The most popular individual wedding color in 2020 was dark blue. According to our study, 37% of couples who exchanged vows in 2020 chose deep blue for their day-of style.

Do you have to change out of your wedding dress?

Whilst many brides prefer to stay in their stunning bridal dresses for the whole day and night, others opt to change into an entirely new outfit for the evening's celebrations.

Does the groom change for the reception?

When Should a Groom Change? “There's definitely an expected shift in tone between ceremony and reception, so an outfit change feels most natural here,” DeLeon advises. “Cultural traditions notwithstanding, I think it's understood that once the vows are read, and the champagne is popped, the ties can be loosened.”

What should a guest wear to a wedding reception?

Evening wear is most appropriate here. For men, this typically means a dark tuxedo, a white dress shirt, a coordinating bow tie, a cummerbund, and suspenders (optional), says Corry. Dress shoes, like oxfords, are suitable. Women can wear either a long gown or a dressy cocktail dress.

What do guests do in between ceremony and reception?

Organize a group activity. One of the best ways to keep your guests busy during a gap between the ceremony and reception is to plan an activity, like a trolley tour of the city or a group visit to a local museum or garden.

What Does a Reception Dress Look Like?

A wedding reception dress is typically less formal and breezier than your ceremony gown. If you’re up for it, it can even be a little daring and sexy. And note that a “dress” isn’t even mandatory for the modern bride anymore—a reception romper, jumper, or pantsuit will turn heads all night long.

Wedding Dresses That Double as Reception Dresses

Can’t dream of changing out of your wedding dress immediately after the ceremony? That’s completely acceptable, too. After all, you spent a lot of time picking out the perfect wedding dress—and you only get to wear it once.

Wedding Dresses That Transform Into Reception Dresses

Some wedding dresses change or transform into reception dresses. Convertible wedding dresses may have a removable piece, like a wrap or sleeves that come off post-ceremony. You can also get a short or sheath convertible dress that comes with an overskirt that transforms it into a ball gown or A-line dress for the ceremony.

When Should You Change Into Your Reception Dress?

When you change into your reception dress is up to you—you may want to keep your ceremony dress on during cocktail hour and then change before your grand entrance into the reception.

How to look in a wedding dress?

For a true testament to how you’ll look in your wedding dress on the big day, have a friend or family member take pictures and videos of you while trying dresses on. Make sure that they capture all angles of each dress you're considering, from the back and sides to shots of you sitting down in the gown from the top up.

What to know before you start shopping for wedding dresses?

Before you start dress shopping, decide whether you want a casual garden-party-themed wedding or a formal, romantic affair. Always keep the venue and theme in mind as you browse gowns, because the last thing you want is for your dress to clash with your overall wedding style.

What to do if you are torn between two wedding dresses?

If you're torn between two gowns or are still on the fence about your dream wedding dress, snap a pic and share it with someone close to you. Nothing can help you make a definite dress decision quite like unbiased feedback from real, fellow brides.

What happens if you can't afford a dress?

If you can't afford it, there's no point in trying it on—you're just torturing yourself and making a standard that no dress you can actually have will live up to.

What to wear to a wedding in the Caribbean?

If your wedding is in the Caribbean in August, go for lightweight fabrics in breezy styles. But if you're getting hitched in the winter in Boston, it's all about snow-like sparkle and heavier, lush fabrics like satin or taffeta.

Why is it important to have a mirror on your wedding dress?

Every mirror can make you look different, so that’s why it’s even more important that you rely on photos and videos to get an authentic sneak peek of what you’ll look like in your wedding dress.

What to do if you're iffy on a dress?

If the dress arrives and you're iffy on it, you don't need to scrap it . Gather your trusted style advisers and "try it on with totally different accessories, like a new belt, or add a bolero," says Molly Guy, creative director at Stone Fox Bride. "If that doesn't help, a seamstress can really change the look by shortening it, changing the neckline, taking off sleeves, or adding sleeves."

What to wear to a wedding reception?

It allows her to wear a less formal gown and enjoy the reception without worrying about ripping or staining her wedding dress.

Why do people wear different dresses at receptions?

There are a few reasons why you may want to wear a different dress for your reception. It could be a personal choice or for cultural reasons. Keep in mind no one is forcing you to wear a different dress for the reception. The choice is entirely up to you! After all, it is your day.

What is the difference between a wedding dress and a reception dress?

What’s the Difference Between a Wedding and Reception Dress? Beyond the bride wearing both, a wedding dress and a reception dress likely won’t have much in common. In general, the main difference between the two is the formality. Ceremony dresses are more formal to match the tone of the location. Conversely, a reception is a party ...

What is a ceremony dress?

Ceremony dresses are more formal to match the tone of the location. Conversely, a reception is a party to celebrate your union. Ceremony dresses are typically more formal and go to the floor. They also usually have a long train and a fuller skirt. Many brides like to choose dresses with intricate detailing.

Do Japanese brides change their gowns?

Cultural Tradition. In some cultures, the bride always changes into another gown after the wedding. For example, Japanese brides will typically wear a simple kimono during the ceremony and a more intricate one for the reception. For multicultural weddings, it’s relatively common for the bride to change her gown for the reception.

Can a wedding dress be white?

On the other hand, reception dresses can be looser, allowing for more movement. While most wedding dresses are white, your reception dress doesn’t have to be. Feel free to pick a color that matches your theme or the groom’s tie. They also can be much shorter, like knee-length or tea-length.

Can a bride change her dress for a multicultural wedding?

For multicultural weddings, it’s relatively common for the bride to change her gown for the reception . The wedding gown may represent her culture, while a reception dress could celebrate her groom’s culture.

What to wear to a wedding if you are casual?

And besides, if the wedding is casual enough, you can do something individual by ditching the tie and wearing an open-collar or grandad collar shirt.

What is the best suit for a wedding reception?

The Suit. A simple mid-tone suit in a lightweight wool will suit most wedding receptions, year round. It’s both formal enough for the occasion, and light enough to deal with the heat of the marquee or dance floor.

What does it mean when the bride says a dress is optional?

“And if the invitation says a certain dress is ‘optional’, that usually means the bride and groom really want you to wear it ,” says Christopher Modoo, formalwear expert and creative director of British tailoring brand Kit Blake. So do it, in other words.

What to wear with a navy suit?

Give a staple navy suit some life with an open-collar shirt. Reiss

How to look smart at a wedding reception?

One way to look smart yet still effortless is to wear separates. That is, a suit jacket with a mis-matching pair of trousers. There is a trick to it of course but worn well, there’s no easier way to look cool at a wedding reception.

What color goes well with navy?

Classic combinations include navy worn with lighter blue, or neutrals – think beige and brown. And because it’s a more dressed down take on tailoring, separates wear well with tees and knits, if you want to go down the even-more relaxed route.

Can you wear cream linen for a wedding reception?

If you want to suit up, cream linen tailoring can make for solid wedding reception outfit. That is, if the wedding reception is being held on a beach. In the middle of the city? Not so much.

What do brides want to show off on the dance floor?

Some brides want to linger in their first dress and really show it off on the dance floor. Others feel restricted by their ceremony attire (especially those wearing tighter, more form-fitting silhouettes!) and want something easy and breezy to kick off the evening.

What did the bride wear to her rehearsal dinner?

This bride wore a gorgeous two-piece pant suit-inspired look for her rehearsal dinner that would make for a gorgeous wedding reception look. Floral embellishment and cigarette style pants make for stylish and easy fashion.

Is it right to wear a wedding dress for the first dance?

While your wedding dress might be the ultimate choice for your walk down the aisle, you may find it's not quite right for your first dance. It's often this conundrum that leads a bride to opt for an outfit change, either at the beginning of the party or mid-festivities.

How to know what to wear to a wedding?

Your first step on the way to a clear idea of what to wear to a wedding is discovering the wedding’s dress code. This sounds simple, but it’s not always as easy as just reading the invitation. Dress codes are often written using obscure language or are only mentioned on additional invitation cards or the wedding website. To find out more about the dress code for the wedding you’re attending, you may need to do a bit of sleuthing.

What to wear to a destination wedding?

While “beach” inherently indicates a casual vibe, the couple is likely still expecting guests to dress up a bit. You can make sure that you’re ready for anything by wearing a sundress, summer suit, or linen pants and a light shirt with flats or sandals. Unless swimming is expressly mentioned, leave the swimwear at home.

What is the best dress for an outdoor wedding?

Cocktail or semi-formal attire is common for outdoor weddings and is a bit more casual than formal attire. Good choices include a cocktail dress or formal summer dress, a suit and tie, or a sport coat and dress pants. Cocktail dresses typically have a hemline between mid-thigh and mid-calf — a floor-length gown would likely be inappropriate in this circumstance.

Why do weddings have dress codes?

Setting a dress code ensures that all of your guests are dressed the way you want and gives them a good idea of what to wear. But not all weddings have dress codes, and dress codes themselves are not without their critics.

What is the most formal dress code?

White tie is likely the most formal dress code that you’ll see on an invitation — even more formal than black tie. Attire options include formal floor-length ball gowns and evening dresses or long-tail tuxedos. However, white tie weddings are very rare, so you most likely won’t ever have to worry about this.

Why do we have dress codes?

Dress codes have historically been used to limit what guests wear and help everyone feel that they are dressed appropriately. But by determining what is included and appropriate, you’re also creating exclusions. Dress codes are considered by some to be old-fashioned, forcing conformity to gender and class norms that may make guests uncomfortable.

How to tell if a wedding venue is a good idea?

The wedding venue itself can be a great clue. By browsing pictures of past events, you may be able to get a good idea of the level of formality and additional things to be aware of. For instance, a venue with lots of grass may require flatter shoes, while an outdoor venue in a windy area may call for a bit more planning when it comes to hairstyles. Wedding Spot’s venue listings include inspirational pictures of past weddings at the venue, as well as contact information for each venue. Giving the venue a call is also a good option, as they can describe how wedding guests have dressed in the past.

How to get more wear out of wedding dress?

To get a little more wear out of your wedding dress and let your guests admire it up close, keep it on during cocktail hour (if you're planning to make an appearance at cocktail hour, that is). Sneak away to change as cocktail hour winds down, while guests are being called in to dinner and taking their seats. Your reception entrance will be the perfect time to debut a new party outfit.

What to do after reception?

Switch looks after your reception entrance, first dance and toasts. Alternatively, save your first dance for later in the evening instead of immediately following your entrance. That way you'll arrive at the party in your wedding dress and get to trot out a new ensemble for your first spin on the dance floor.

What to do between dinner and dancing?

Alternatively, save your first dance for later in the evening instead of immediately following your entrance. That way you'll arrive at the party in your wedding dress and get to trot out a new ensemble for your first spin on the dance floor.