Part of our Bridal Events guide.
A reception dress for the bride should be easy to move in, so she can dance, sit, and hug guests without fighting her outfit. Some brides switch to a lighter white midi with built-in support, and others want a second gown with more sparkle or drama for the party. The five dresses below come in sizes 00 to 34.
Should the bride change into a second dress for the reception?
You do not have to, but many brides do. A second look makes sense if your gown has a heavy skirt, a train, or a bodice you would not want to dance in for four hours. It also gives you a fresh set of photos. If you love your gown and can move in it, keep it on.
What should a bride look for in a reception dress?
- Length you can dance in: midi or knee length keeps the hem off the floor. If you choose a second full gown, practice moving in it first.
- Built-in support: a built-in bra or bust cups means one less thing to adjust.
- Pockets: for lip color, a phone, or tissues during toasts.
- An easy closure: a zipper someone can do up quickly in the bridal suite.
- A plan for color: white keeps you looking like the bride; a bold color reads as party mode.
Which reception dresses work best for the bride?
Bria Dress
Color: White. Sizes 00 to 34.
- Built-in bra and bodice boning
- Sweetheart neckline with adjustable spaghetti straps
- A-line skirt with pockets
- Invisible zipper
Why it fits: the product page says it was built with support "so you can dance all day," which is exactly the job of a reception dress.
Pearl Dress
Color: White. Sizes 00 to 34.
- Sparkling sequins and pearl-like embellishments
- Soft tulle layers with draping
- Strapless and sleeveless with a fitted waistline
- Corset back, true to size
Why it fits: it is a full gown, not a shorter dress, so choose it for sparkle rather than a lighter hem. Sequins and pearl details catch the light on the dance floor and in your reception photos.
Harlow Dress
Color: White. Sizes 00 to 34.
- Floral lace fabric in a midi-length A-line
- Halter V-neckline with hook closure
- Built-in bust cups
- Dropped waist with shirring and vintage-inspired buttons
Why it fits: lace keeps the look bridal, and the halter neckline shows off your shoulders after a more covered ceremony gown.
Victoria Wedding Dress
Color: White. Sizes 00 to 34.
- Subtle jacquard fabric
- Strapless, sculpted corset bodice with cups
- Voluminous pleated A-line skirt with a train
- Back zipper, true to size
Why it fits: it is the most bridal of the five, a princess ball gown for the bride who wants a second gown instead of a shorter dress. The full skirt and train make it the least dance-friendly pick here (final sale, so check the size chart before ordering).
Phiona Dress
Color: Snowdrop. Sizes 00 to 34.
- Graceful, feminine design
- Made for formal events and evening celebrations
Why it fits: the product page pitches it for evening celebrations, which is what a reception is. Check the product page for length and fit details before ordering.
Size availability varies by style, so check your size on each product page.
Should my reception dress be white or a color?
| If you want | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| To stay clearly the bride | Victoria or Bria | White with a fuller skirt |
| White, but light and easy to dance in | Harlow | Lace midi, easy movement |
| Sparkle for the party | Pearl | Sequins and pearl-like details |
| Soft and understated | Phiona | Snowdrop shade, made for evening events |
Every pick in this guide stays in white or a soft bridal shade. If you want a real color change, look for a bright print in the same easy-to-dance-in shape.
When should the bride change for the reception?
Many brides change after dinner and before the dancing starts, or right after the first dance. Pick a time with your photographer so they can get a few shots of the second look. Ask someone in your wedding party to hold the reception dress, your shoes, and a garment bag for the gown.
Shop more white and bridal styles in our Bridal Event Dresses collection.
FAQ
What is a second look wedding dress?
It is a second outfit the bride changes into during the wedding, usually for the reception. It is often shorter and lighter than the ceremony gown.
Can a reception dress have pockets?
Yes. The Bria Dress has pockets.
Which reception dress has built-in support?
The Bria Dress has a built-in bra and boning, the Harlow Dress has built-in bust cups, and the Victoria Wedding Dress has a corset bodice with cups.
Is it okay to wear a color at my own reception?
Yes. It is your wedding. A bright color marks the shift from ceremony to party, even though the picks in this guide stay in white and soft shades.
Bridal Events series: Previous: The Wedding Dress | Next: Wedding Getaway Dresses | Back to the Bridal Events guide