27 Best Second Wedding Dresses
We've rounded up 23 second wedding dresses that are perfect for a reception outfit change or for nearlyweds looking for a second marriage wedding dress
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Let’s be honest, shopping for your wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning. With so many different styles, designs and boutiques to choose from, it’s no wonder one dress just isn’t enough for many brides-to-be. Second wedding dresses are a rising trend - and with good reason.
It can be almost impossible to say yes to just one dress, especially when you have to consider the gown’s practicality for the entire day, as well as all of the dancing you plan to do in the evening. And if you’re getting married abroad you’ll probably need a completely different style of dress from your legal wedding back on home turf.
For those nearlyweds who may be about to walk down the aisle for the second time, perhaps later in life or for a second chance at love, you may be after something a little different to the traditional wedding dress.
Whatever the reason for your search for a second wedding dress, we’ve got you covered.
- Second Wedding Dresses for Evening Receptions & Beyond
- Classy Second Wedding Dresses for Older Brides
- Second Wedding Dresses: The Dos & Don’ts
Second Wedding Dresses to See You From Day to Night
Whether you’re looking to go glam for the evening, can’t commit to wearing just one dress all day (and we get it!) or you’re looking for the perfect 2nd marriage dress that’s perhaps not as traditional as the one you first chose, we’ve got them all here…
1. Beaded Column Dress - Martina Liana
Want to make a bold statement at your reception? This dazzling, figure-hugging gown by Martina Liana is a must have! Lavishly decorated with pearls and beads, this 2nd wedding gown is luminous from every angle.
Whether you're looking for a second marriage dress, or you want a sexy second bridal dress - that low back and sheer panels will add some va-va-voom to your wedding day look.
- Expert Take: This gown’s sheer side panels and angled corsetry create the perfect sultry and modern touch. It's ideal if you want something a little less traditional.
- Sizing: AU 7-22
2. Aurora - Gozde Karadana
We love an alternative 2nd wedding gown look! This beautifully beaded creation by Turkish designer Gozde Karadana is the perfect balance of contemporary glam and romantic elegance. The delicate tulle cape and sleeves perfectly balance out the heavier beaded fabric of the dress.
You can also turn this into a second wedding look by itself, by simply removing the cape and sleeves for your wedding reception.
- Expert Take: The delicate tulle sleeves and high necked cape give the look an intriguing celestial edge
- Sizing: Contact stockists for details
3. Satin Bandeau Overskirt Dress - Coast
More of a minimalist when it comes to your second wedding dress preferences? No problem, Coast have your evening ensemble covered with this unique duchess satin mini, complemented by its matching full overskirt with a daring high low hemline.
It's ideal for nearlyweds working to a tight budget as well, as it comes in a just over £100 - a bargain! The fabric looks a lot more expensive than it actually is.
- Expert Take: Why save this look just for the evening? Wear the overskirt for your ceremony look and whip it off after to reveal your second wedding dress!
- Sizing: 8 - 18
4. Grace - Ella Moda
Jump in on the short second dress trend with this romantic and playful gown, handcrafted by renowned Australian bridal designer Ella Moda.
Hand cut floral lace merges seamlessly into this gown’s lightweight organza crinoline skirt, making it the perfect dress to dance the night away in. Team the look with a killer pair of designer wedding shoes for the ultimate glam wedding party style, or dress it down with cute flats for a registry office wedding.
- Expert Take: Pair the glorious Grace gown with Ella Moda’s matching floral lace gloves for a super sophisticated wedding reception look
- Sizing: Contact stockists for details
5. Toni - Rixo
Classic meets extravagant in this chic second wedding gown by Rixo.
Its long sleeves, clean lines and empire waistline make it the ultimate classy gown, and the addition of the ostrich feather trim provides a subtle, playful edge. It's perfect for nearlyweds who absolutely adore vintage glamour - it's giving series 70s vibes.
- Expert Take: Rixo offers a try-at-home service, plus 10% off your first order, making them a dream when it comes to shopping for a wedding dress online! They’ve also got a really broad range of sizes available.
- Sizing: 6 - 24
6. Marianne - Rewritten London
This minimalist beauty will be sure to turn heads during your reception.
Made of a sustainable bamboo satin, the loose fit of this second wedding dress by sustainable bridal label Rewritten London makes it perfect for dancing! The halterneck style is so chic and timeless too - you’re guaranteed to always love your look with this dress.
- Expert Take: The fact this dress is sustainably produced removes any guilt you might have about buying a second dress. Sell it on or rent it out after your big day to continue the positive eco-impact!
- Sizing: 8 - 18
7. Bahati - Grace Loves Lace
Decided to have your second wedding abroad? We think this Grace Loves Lace bridal two-piece would help you put together a fabulously boho and elegantly carefree look for a beach celebration.
- Expert Take: This dress comes in Grace Loves Lace’s signature burnout silk and is embellished with a floral motif for a feminine and ethereal rake on boho. The ultimate second wedding dress for a beach wedding.
- Sizing: L - XL
8. Garance - Watters
Love the classic look but crave a modern twist? Garance by Watters is the solution: its polished satin draping and cowl neckline makes this gown demure and incredibly chic, however the exposed corseted back and pearl detailing add a contemporary feel.
- Expert Take: This glamorous beauty is also available as a strapless gown to emphasise the bold neckline, with optional delicate pearl straps, giving you another take on this look.
- Sizing: 00 - 24W
9. Rose Wedding Dress – Whistles
What we love about the Whistles bridal collection is that they take classic wedding dress features and give them a contemporary spin. Take this Rose dress: it's a popular off-the-shoulder style but with a high-low skirt and scalloped hem - the modern way to do pretty. It's got an undeniable bridal feel, but is low-key enough to be perfect as a second wedding dress.
- Expert Take: This dress is currently on sale - at the time of publication, it was down to £299, which is an amazing price for such a beautiful dress. It has 10 positive reviews from shoppers, with a couple just flagging that the zip is a little stiff. Practise using it ahead of the big day so it's not a stress on the morning of your wedding.
- Sizing: 04 - 14
10. Lottie - Nadine Merabi
Prepare to wow your guests in this eye-catching showstopper by Nadine Merabi.
This second wedding dress features crystal waterfall beading which intertwines seamlessly with its bold feather trimmed hem, making it the perfect post-ceremony look!
- Expert Take: This is a really reasonably priced second bridal gown. The movement of the white beaded fringing as you dance with your loved ones in the evening will capture beautifully in photos.
- Sizing: UK 6 - 18
11. Noce Two-Piece - Rembo Styling
Who said you have to wear a second wedding ‘dress’? This quirky two piece by Rembo Styling, with its embroidered floral lace and bateau neckline is a chic modern take on traditional wedding-wear.
- Expert Take: The versatility and interchangeability of this two piece means that it can be easily integrated into your post-wedding wardrobe too.
- Sizing: Contact stockists for details
12. Cassidy - Elbeth Gillis
Cassidy by Elbeth Gillis is perfect for nearlyweds who adore the Old Hollywood Glamour aesthetic.
Channel your inner Marilyn for your second wedding dress with this breath-taking sheath gown with an elegant square neckline adorned with lustrous beaded tulle.
- Expert Take: The unexpected open back adds an additional touch of sensuality to this opulent gown - it’s a great choice if you’ve gone more traditional for your ceremony look. If you love this, you'll also really love Eliza Jane Howell dresses.
- Sizing: Contact stockists for details
13. Lisette - Needle & Thread
The beautiful, ruffled Lisette dress comes in three different colours - cream for those who want a more traditional second wedding dress look, pink for a more feminine feel, or black for a dose of drama.
The swishy skirt is just made for twirling on a wedding dance floor.
- Expert Take: Just when you thought the dress couldn’t get any better, its fabric composition is 100% recycled.
- Sizing: UK 4 - 18
14. Poppy - Made With Love
If you’re searching for the perfect second wedding dress to party in, Made With Love’s Poppy could be the one for you.
Combining a lustrous mikado mini skirt with a delicately beaded corseted bodice, this classic feminine beauty is a dream for modern nearlyweds.
- Expert Take: This dress comes in a broad range of sizes, and is also perfect for pre-wedding celebrations, such as for your engagement party or as a hen do outfit.
- Sizing: 0 - 30
15. Grace - Grace Loves Lace
This dress is called Grace for a reason - it’s the epitome of the signature Grace Loves Lace style.
If you want a second wedding dress that embodies elegant, old-school Hollywood glamour, this is the one for you. It’s designed to be showstopper, whilst feeling comfortable and flattering on your body.
- Expert Take: Done the whole ball gown thing before and looking for something totally different for your second marriage dress? The Grace gown would be perfect for embracing your understated, sophisticated side!
- Sizing: XXS - XXXL
16. Kaylin - Madi Lane
Minis are proving to be an incredibly popular choice for second bridal dresses this season, and Madi Lane’s Kaylin gown is one of our favourites.
We adore its dramatic mini three-quarter circle skirt, adorned with glittering pearls and glitter tulle. This short but sweet dress is set to take the second wedding dress spotlight.
- Expert Take: Kaylin’s pearl embellished tulle off shoulder sleeves perfectly balance out the shorter length of the dress
- Sizing: 2 - 28
17. Chrissy - Rewritten London
Do you love the understated look? Rewritten London’s Chrissy gown could be ideal for your second wedding dress, especially for the simple satin lovers who desire an alternative, minimal look for the evening.
Combining a V-neck bodice and bias cut into its bamboo satin sheath silhouette, this second bridal dress option truly is elegant.
- Expert Take: Chrissy also features a captivating criss cross back and small train which will look just phenomenal in your photos.
- Sizing: UK 8 - 16
19. Emilia Silk Jumpsuit - Rixo
Who said your second wedding dress had to actually be a dress? Definitely not us! Rixo’s bridal collection is bursting with gorgeous (and very affordable) pieces for all elements of your big day and this jumpsuit has got late night dancing written all over it.
- Expert Take: With a plunging neckline and wide-leg trousers, this wedding jumpsuit channels iconic tailoring from the seventies. It’s a real show stopper for an evening wedding look.
- Sizing: UK 6 - UK 16
Classy Second Wedding Dresses for Older Brides
20. Jennifer - Monsoon
A wedding dress with sleeves doesn't have to feel heavy. This Monsoon dress has embroidered mesh sleeves that enhance the overall feel of delicate romance, and at under £500 it's a really reasonable price for a second marriage dress.
- Expert Take: This dress is so beautiful and an absolute steal for the price. It's been in stock at Monsoon for a while now, meaning there is limited stock in some sizes.
- Sizing: 6 - 22
21. Natasha - Karen Willis Holmes
Calling all maximalist nearlyweds searching for a second dress! The Natasha gown by Karen Willis Holmes may be just the bold beauty you are looking for.
Its fully beaded sheath silhouette makes a sparkling statement whilst simultaneously elongating the body, and its daring puff sleeves exude vintage glamour.
- Expert Take: One of our Editor’s favourite brands, Karen Willis Holmes is known for its clean, timeless designs. The V-neckline on this gown is especially flattering.
- Sizing: UK 4 - 16
22. Eve - Monsoon
This column wedding dress by Monsoon is a must have for all of the boho nearlyweds out there.
With floral lace and vine embroidery which cascades gently down its loose fitting skirt, ‘Eve’ epitomises modern romance.
- Expert Take: Accessorise this enchanting second wedding dress look with a whimsical flower crown to embody the free spirited aesthetic.
- Sizing: 6 - 18
23. Easton - Justin Alexander
A fit and flare silhouette is always incredibly flattering, and this sleek stretch mikado number by renowned American brand Justin Alexander is certainly no exception.
Featuring a sexy illusion bodice intricately decorated with the finest floral sequined lace that reappears on its cut-out cathedral length train, this is the perfect second wedding dress for the classic newlywed who still wants to make a dramatic entrance.
- Expert Take: Elevated seaming is used on this gown to create a flattering, curve-skimming silhouette.
- Sizing: US 2 - 20
24. Clementine - Rixo
This gorgeous silk Rixo gown is inspired by the 1930s, with romantic blouson sleeves and an empire waist line along the bust to give a sleek finish. This dress absolutely oozes sophistication making it a stunning choice for a second time bride looking to keep things classy.
Clementines's rose bud print and jacquard-woven print lends added elegance and a perfect sheen for wedding photos.
- Expert Take: This second wedding dress is fully lined, however the lightweight silk glides on your body for an expensive look but hassle-free fit.
- Sizing: UK 6 to UK 20
25. Delphine - Ghost
This gorgeous satin dress is a classic Ghost design - you've probably spotted a few bridesmaids sporting the soft blush and sage green versions this summer. And for good reason. With an empire waist and gentle petal sleeves, this shape flattering for all brides.
- Expert Take: If you're a second-time bride and want to step away from traditional ivory, this dress also comes in a navy and black - two shades we're loving for winter weddings.
- Sizing: UK 8 to UK 20
26. Mya Feathered Dress - Rixo
The Mya gown is a simple and sleek silhouette with just the right touch of fun for a second wedding dress for a classy older bride, thanks to the vintage-inspired feather trim. We absolutely love this dress and with its elegant bias cut and bracelet sleeves, we're sure you will too.
- Expert Take: If you love this feathered, vintage look but prefer a shorter second wedding dress, then you're in luck. Check out Toni, the mini dress version.
- Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
27. Daphne - Maids To Measure
The team at Maids To Measure are experts in their craft of creating gorgeous bridesmaid dress in an array of beautiful colours. But who says a blushing bride couldn't look just as fabulous in a sage green satin dress. Not us, that's for sure.
- Expert Take: The three-quarter sleeves, v-neck and tie-back detail create a beautifully balanced silhouette. It if you're unsure how this dress will feel on, you can order a fabric sample to test out.
- Sizing: UK 8 to UK 18
Can You Wear White for a Second Wedding?
Firstly, let's break down this whole brides-in-white business. It wasn't until Queen Victoria wore an ivory lace number in 1840 that white dresses became the fashion for British weddings. Before then, although some brides did opt for white, it was actually traditional for brides to wear red, and white was worn for mourning.
Only later did the symbolism of purity, innocence and virginity become associated with white. The point is that no bride has to wear white, but anyone can wear white.
If you want to follow this much-more-modern-than-you-think Western wedding tradition, then go for it! Sadly, you may encounter ignorant people who say wearing white again is "inappropriate" or a breach of etiquette. They are entirely wrong.
You can wear whatever you want for your wedding, whether it's your first, second, third, fourth, fifth – you are in love and it should be your opportunity to celebrate the occasion with the joy it deserves.
And plenty of celebrities have chosen non-white wedding dresses over the years, too.
What Colour Should a Bride Wear for Their Second Wedding?
White, as established, is fine, but any other colour will work, too. Be guided by colours that suit you and make you feel good. One thing to be aware of is that you may not be able to marry for the second time in a religious building, depending on your religion.
This means your second wedding could take place at a registry office or venue licensed for civil ceremonies, and these are generally much more relaxed. You might have dressed modestly in traditional white in a church, for example, but be happy in a stunning pink gown in a registry office.
To put a twist on tradition, you could also choose to stick with white but wear something ultra-chic like a bridal jumpsuit or wedding trouser suit instead of a dress.
What Should a Second-Time Bride Wear? Can They Wear a Veil?
Absolutely, if that's what you want! There really is no etiquette that says you shouldn't. All you need to consider is whether a wedding veil will suit your personal style, be comfortable to wear and go well with your outfit and hairstyle.
Of course, if you're planning on wearing a non-traditional bridal outfit, a veil might look a bit much. In that case, it's worth investigating other bridal hair accessories, from silk ribbons to headpieces.
Second Marriage Wedding Dresses: The Dos and Don’ts
Peta Hunt, a bridal fashion expert, has a simple tip for dressing for your second wedding: "If at first, you don't succeed – go dramatically different the second time!"
You want to avoid anything that resembles your first dress for obvious reasons and also because it's likely your tastes have developed. "Hopefully, you'll be older and a little wiser and have found your personal style," she says.
What's more, wedding fashion doesn't stand still. The types of dress you can get will have changed from your first marriage, so there will be plenty of options available that weren't on the market the first time around. Check out our round-up of the hottest wedding dress trends to see what's new.
Other than choosing a different wedding dress style, there are some simple expert tips that will help you find the look you deserve.
Do: Choose the Dress For You, Not Your Preconceptions
“Forget about your dress being age-relevant – you need to work out the right shape for you and look for a dress that suits your venue," says Peta. Think about what kind of day you're going to be having. "How about a chic suit and jacket in the style of Jackie O? It's perfect for a city wedding," says Peta. "For a countryside celebration, you could consider a boho dress if the aesthetic is laidback, or something more ballgown-inspired if it's super-formal. For an evening wedding, a beaded dress or jumpsuit can work well."
“Whatever style you choose, the key is to make sure to pick a fabric that flatters," says Peta. "Crepe is good, as well as classic lace or silk."
Don’t: Be Afraid of Patterns
If you're thinking along alternative lines, you don't have to go for a block colour. Explore polka dot, floral, geometric – whatever feels right.
Do: Pare it Back if That's Your Style
"If your bridal style this time around is all about elegance, a good rule is to try to take it all down a bit,” explains Peta. This is relevant whether your second marriage is in your 30s or your 60s. “It comes down to focusing on quality. Go for a simple, perfectly cut dress and splash out on a pair of shoes or great jewellery. Don’t forget good underwear, too!"
Or... Don't Pare it Back
Remember, this is your wedding - if you want to go for high-octane glamour, we say do your thing and look amazing.
Do Find a Muse
“Think about a style icon and look at what type of outfits they pick," says Peta. "There’s lots of dress inspiration to be found on the red carpet to suit to-be-weds of all ages. Think Sophia Loren, Lauren Hutton, Charlotte Rampling, Helen Mirren, Pat Cleveland, Jane Fonda and Ines de la Fressange.”
Now you need the final finishing touch: a pair of comfortable wedding shoes that look as amazing as they feel.
