Table of Contents
As a bride planning a second wedding, deciding what to wear can be quite a challenge. You want to look your best, feel beautiful, and celebrate your special day with the same enthusiasm and joy as your first.
With so many bridal outfit styles and options available, it can be difficult to decide which one is best for you. When it comes to finding the right dress for your second wedding, the most important thing is to make sure that you feel comfortable and confident in it.
In this article, we’ve put together a selection of dresses from classic and timeless gowns, to modern and edgy designs to help you stand out and feel your best on your special day. We’ll also give you tips on how to shop for a second wedding dress and find one that will flatter your figure to make you feel beautiful and confident all day long.
Fashion Rules and Etiquette for a Second Wedding
Second weddings are just as special as the first, but there can be certain fashion rules and etiquette to keep in mind. With second weddings often being more intimate affairs, it’s important to consider the attire that’s appropriate and respectful to the occasion.
Whether you’re the bride, groom, or guest, understanding the basic fashion etiquette for a second wedding can help ensure that everyone looks their best and that the day goes smoothly.
For the Bride:
1. Dress Color
Traditionally, wearing a white wedding dress is associated with being a symbol of purity and has been reserved for first-time brides. However, in recent years, many brides have chosen to wear white for their second wedding as well. There are no hard and fast rules regarding the color of the dress for a second wedding, and the most important thing is to choose an outfit that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
Some brides choose to wear a different color or opt for a less formal gown, while others prefer to wear white for their second wedding as a sign of renewed love and commitment. Ultimately, the decision on what color to wear is a personal one, and there’s no right or wrong answer.
2. Dress Style
The style of wedding dress you should wear for your second wedding depends on a number of factors, including the formality of the wedding, your personal taste, and the venue. Some brides choose to wear a traditional, formal wedding dress, while others opt for a more relaxed, bohemian style. Here are a few popular styles to consider:
- A-line or Ballgown: A-line or ballgown styles are perfect for a formal, traditional wedding. They’re elegant and timeless and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
- Sheath or Column Dress: A sheath or column dress is a more understated and sophisticated option that’s ideal for a second wedding. It’s a simple, yet chic style that flatters the figure and can be dressed up with the right accessories.
- Short Dress: If you’re having a more casual, outdoor wedding, a short dress may be a perfect choice. Whether it’s a tea-length dress or a mini-dress, a short wedding dress can be a fun and flirty option.
- Non-Traditional Dress: For a second wedding, some brides choose to go against tradition and wear a non-traditional dress. This could be a jumpsuit, a pantsuit, or even a separates set.
It’s important to remember that the style of your dress should reflect your personal taste and the feel of your wedding. So, choose what makes you feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful.
For the Groom
For a second wedding, the groom’s attire should be chosen with the same level of consideration and attention to detail as the bride’s dress. Here are a few popular styles for grooms to consider:
- Classic Suit: A classic black or navy suit is a timeless and sophisticated option for a second wedding. It’s versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the formality of the occasion.
- Tuxedo: A tuxedo is a more formal option for a second wedding and is perfect for a black-tie or formal event. Choose a classic black or white tuxedo to ensure a timeless and elegant look.
- Separates: If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, consider wearing separates. For example, a linen blazer paired with dress pants or a vest and dress shirt can create a stylish and modern look.
- Casual Attire: For a more casual wedding, consider wearing a sport coat or a light-colored suit. You can also opt for a button-up shirt and dress pants or chinos, or even wear a nice pair of khaki pants and a collared shirt.
Regardless of the style you choose, it’s important to consider the venue, the weather, and the formality of the wedding when selecting your attire. It’s also important to coordinate with the bride to ensure that your attire complements her dress.
Choosing the Perfect Dress for Your Second Wedding
Choosing a dress for a second wedding can be a bit more challenging than choosing one for your first wedding, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right approach, you can find a dress that is both beautiful and appropriate for the occasion. Whether you’re looking for something traditional and elegant or something more relaxed and informal, there are many options to choose from.
Remember, the most important thing is to choose a dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and designs until you find the one that’s just right for you.
1. A Fun Bridal Jumpsuit
A bridal jumpsuit is a great option for your second wedding, as it’s comfortable, stylish, and fun! This Galina Signature embellished bridal jumpsuit from David’s Bridal is the perfect statement piece with its intricate beaded lace appliques. It offers all the elegance of a bridal gown, while also being comfortable and stylish.
The overskirt, with its elaborately beaded waistband, is a beautiful addition to this outfit, creating a sleek silhouette and allowing you to adjust the look to fit your mood throughout the night. According to the designer, the beading and craftsmanship of this jumpsuit have required nearly ten hours of work, making it truly unique and special. Not only will you look stunning, but you will also feel empowered and confident, making it a perfect choice for your second wedding.
2. A Bohemian Style Dress
This soft blue dress we found on Etsy is a great option for a second wedding. It’s light, stylish, and modern. The dress is handmade to order, so it will be unique and special just for you. The combination of blue and gray is a classic one, and the boho style makes it comfortable all day long.
The off-white lace, tulle, and train of the dress will add a lovely romantic touch. The buttons on the back and the transparent fabric further add to the feminine charm of the outfit.
The bodice of the dress is adorned with off-white lace. The long train that hangs from the waist and has layers of tulle in blue and off-white colors gives it its Bohemian look. The back of the dress is decorated with buttons, and the entire gown is transparent to tastefully show off the figure of the bride.
3. Stylish Sheath Wedding Gown
This classic and timeless lace sheath wedding gown with an overskirt is another great choice for a bride’s second wedding. The corset-like bodice with the sweetheart neckline creates an elegant and romantic silhouette that’s sure to make heads turn and catch everyone’s attention as you walk down the aisle.
To give the dress more of a dramatic and sophisticated look, a detachable embellished tulle overskirt is included. The lace hemline and chapel train create an alluring and classic effect without being too dramatic. You’ll be sure to leave a lasting impression on your groom and the guests who see you for the first time in this timelessly beautiful wedding dress.
4. Sultry and Charming Crepe Gown
Sultry and modern, this ivory bow-neck crepe gown is a great choice for the second wedding of a fashion-forward bride. The sleek crepe fabric is lightweight, airy, and comfortable. The ivory color is traditional and timeless and the bow at the mock neck has a modern, feminine look.
The artful cut-out back creates a lovely silhouette, and the fitted design is perfect for showing off the bride’s curves while still providing a sense of elegance and sophistication. The overall look is timeless and perfect for a second wedding.
5. Romantic and Radiant Full Length Dress
Another great find from Amazon, this stylish and elegant dress is a great option for your second wedding. The bodice is encrusted with intricate lace and beads, while the illusion straps add a touch of modern romance.
The full-length skirt is gathered at the waist, creating a flattering silhouette and the two layers of tulle with the cascading train brings a touch of elegance to the look. For a bride who wants to turn heads, this dress is sure to do the trick.
6. Luxurious Vintage Gown
This Persephone Calliste Bride wedding dress from Etsy is the perfect choice for the bride who wants to make a unique and stunning statement. With its eye-catching backless design, luxurious fabric, and romantic silhouette, it’s surely a head-turner. Its figure-hugging bodice and flowing chiffon skirt are made from a luxurious lace fabric and feature a beautiful backless design.
The bodice of this dress is adorned with delicate lace detailing that cascades to the skirt for a truly enchanting look. The soft and feminine silhouette of the dress allows for plenty of movement and comfort, while the mesh insert at the back of the bodice provides a unique touch. With its angelic design, this dress is an absolute showstopper that’ll make a statement on your special day.
7. Off-Shoulder Crepe Dress
A David’s Bridal favorite, this short off-shoulder crepe dress is the perfect mix of style and comfort for any bride looking for a casual yet stunning second wedding look. The stretch crepe fabric and boned bodice provide a stunning fit and the hand-pleated skirt creates a flattering shape. The short length of the dress makes it a great choice for a second wedding, allowing the bride to look her best without feeling overly dressed up.
The short length also allows for a variety of shoe choices, so the bride can show off her style with her favorite pair of heels or a dressy pair of flats to be extra comfortable.
8. A Boho Style A-Line Dress
For a free-spirited bride who wants a relaxed outdoor second wedding, this lovely boho-chic style dress from Amazon is a great option. The adjustable spaghetti straps and drawstring lace bodice will accentuate your figure while also keeping things comfortably casual. The dress is made of soft lace, offering a lightweight feel and effortless look that is effortlessly elegant.
The A-line silhouette of this gown is figure-flattering, and the intricate lace detailing elevates the design to another level. The dress is a great option for destination weddings, as the light fabric and uncomplicated design will not weigh you down.
9. Enchanting Mermaid Gown
A vibrantly lilac absolute stunner, with its beaded feather trim off-the-shoulder mermaid gown, is perfect for a bride’s second wedding. The off-the-shoulder neckline with beaded straps plays off the beading along the waistline and feather-trimmed skirt while the fitted bodice, adorned with feathers, hugs you in all the right places.
The lilac color of the dress is a great choice for a second wedding as it’s a unique, non-traditional color that still radiates femininity and romance. This exquisite dress is perfect for a bride who wants to make a statement while still looking graceful and elegant.
10. Modern Bridal Separates
These elegant satin wedding separates from David’s Bridal featuring a full skirt with pockets give the bride the perfect opportunity to create a unique and personal look for her second wedding. (Did we mention pockets? Because as well all know there’s really nothing better than a stunning wedding dress with pockets!) The beautiful shimmery satin fabric is so versatile that it can be used to create a variety of looks and styles.
A great feature of this skirt is that it allows the bride to keep her look classic during the ceremony but switch it up for the after-party if she wishes. She can opt for a sophisticated top for the ceremony, such as a beaded bodice or a lace halter, and then switch it up for the after-party with a sparkly crop top for a sultry touch. The skirt also features a voluminous silhouette that flatters all body types, making it a great option for any bride on her second wedding.
11. Princess Ball Gown
As we mentioned above, there are no rules against a bride who wants to look like a Disney princess on her second wedding day. This beautiful ball gown from Amazon will do just that! The dress comes in a variety of colors including white, red, blue, and even black for the bold bride!
This gown is made in tulle and satin and the beaded details add a touch of sparkle and shine, making it perfect for a glamorous affair. The sweetheart neckline is designed to flatter and emphasize the bride’s curves, while the lace-up back ensures a perfect fit. The dress is ideal for a second wedding because it’s both classic and timeless, while also having a touch of modernity.
12. Elegant Bridal Pant Suit
A bridal pantsuit is a good option for a second wedding because it offers a non-traditional alternative to the traditional wedding dress. By choosing a bridal pantsuit, you can express your personal style in a unique and unconventional way. Additionally, pantsuits are often more comfortable and practical than a traditional dress, making them an ideal choice for a second wedding, especially if the wedding is more casual or outdoor.
Bridal pantsuits also provide a level of versatility and can be dressed up or down, depending on the formality of the wedding. Whether you opt for a tailored blazer and pants or a more relaxed jumpsuit, a bridal pantsuit can be a beautiful and practical choice for a second wedding.
Crafted from a blend of polyester and spandex, this fitted suit jacket is designed to flatter any figure. The flap pockets provide the finishing touch to this stunning piece. It’s classic, stylish, and modern at the same time.
Tips for Shopping for Your Second Wedding Dress
Shopping for a second wedding dress can be a thrilling and meaningful experience for a bride. With the knowledge and experience gained from your first wedding, you can approach this process with more clarity and confidence. However, there are still many factors to consider, such as the formality of the wedding, your personal style, and your budget.
The good news is that there are many options available to help you find the perfect dress for your second wedding. Here are some tips for shopping for your second wedding dress:
1. Consider the formality of the wedding:
The formality of your second wedding will impact the type of dress you should choose. For a formal wedding, you may want to consider a traditional gown, while for a more casual wedding, a shorter dress or even a bridal pantsuit might be a better option.
2. Think about your personal style:
Your personal style is important when shopping for a second wedding dress. Choose a dress that reflects your personality and makes you feel confident and beautiful.
3. Set a budget:
Wedding dresses can be expensive, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping. This will help you narrow down your options and avoid overspending.
4. Consider the venue and time of year:
The venue and time of year of your wedding will also impact your dress choice. If your wedding is outdoors and in the summer, for example, you may want to consider a lighter, more breathable fabric.
5. Shop at a variety of bridal boutiques:
Try shopping at different bridal boutiques to get a better sense of the styles and designers available. Don’t be afraid to try on different styles and designs until you find the one that is just right for you.
6. Seek advice from trusted friends and family:
Friends and family members who have been married before can provide valuable insights and advice on what to look for in a wedding dress.
7. Take your time:
Don’t feel pressured to find your dress right away. Take your time and enjoy the process. You want to find the perfect dress, so don’t rush the decision.
Remember, the most important thing is to choose a dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Follow these tips and enjoy the process of shopping for your second wedding dress!
Budget Considerations:
- Establish a reasonable budget for your second wedding dress that fits within your overall wedding budget.
- Research dress designers and retailers in your area to find reasonable prices.
- Look through second wedding dress recommendations online to get an idea about the cost and styles.
- Consider purchasing a pre-owned dress or renting a gown to keep your costs low.
Finding the Right Look:
- Research dress styles that may suit the body type and look you want to achieve.
- Keep an open mind when you browse through possible dress options online.
- Take photos or save images of dresses you like to help narrow your options. (Pinterest is a highly convenient and user-friendly platform to do this)
- Request appointments with various bridal boutiques and try on multiple dresses to find the right one.
Alterations:
- Ensure that the alterations necessary for the dress to fit you correctly are within your budget.
- Ask the bridal store, online vendor, or tailor that you choose for an estimate of the alterations costs upfront.
- Make sure to leave enough time for the alterations to be completed before the wedding.
What to Avoid:
- Avoid rush orders or alterations as these can increase the cost significantly and can also be extremely stressful to deal with.
- Try to avoid buying a dress that requires extensive alterations as this can be costly and time-consuming.
- Avoid buying a dress that’s more than you can afford – stick to your budget.
Wrapping Up
When it comes to finding a perfect wedding dress for your second wedding, the number of options available, from classic silhouettes to modern styles, can be quite overwhelming. However, choosing the right outfit for a second wedding can also be quite a fun and exciting experience if you plan in advance.
With a little research and an open mind, you can find the perfect dress in terms of style, fit, and budget. You deserve to look and feel beautiful on your special day, and with the right dress, you can do just that.
