25 Second Marriage & Second Dress Wedding Dresses to Shop Now
Our stylish edit includes wedding dresses that are perfect for a reception outfit change, as well as looks for nearlyweds shopping for second marriage wedding dresses.
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For those of you who may be about to walk down the aisle for a second time, you may well be shopping for second marriage wedding dresses that are a little different from the (perhaps more traditional) outfit you wore first time around.
Otherwise you may be here to browse second wedding dresses because you’re either planning an outfit change for your reception or after-party, or you’ve got a second ceremony lined up, perhaps as the precursor to a destination wedding or to honour different cultural traditions.
Whatever the reason for your search for second wedding dresses, we’ve got you covered with our edit of stylish outfit choices below.
From chic midi dresses and tailored two-pieces to statement-making minis perfect for partying in, let our selection inspire your moment to shine.
Second Marriage Wedding Dresses
Maybe your personal style has evolved, or you just want to eschew tradition the second time around… either way, let this chic selection of wedding gowns for second marriages inspire your big-day look
1. Hayley Dress – RIXO
For effortless elegance, turn heads in this beautiful silk-velvet number from RIXO. The Hayley dress reimagined in cream features the brand’s subtle devoré bouquet print and a detachable scarf that trails down the open back.
It’s a gorgeous and glamorous choice for a ceremony but has a slight iridescence that means it will look stunning under the lights of the dancefloor, too.
- Sizing: UK 6-16
2. Bow Midi Dress – Odd Muse
With its selection of cute minis and form-fitting midi dresses, Odd Muse’s understated styles are classic, delicate and perfect for the modern bride.
We love the sweeping, off-the-shoulder satin neckline of this midi dress, as well as the vintage style of the mock buttons embellished onto the label’s signature luxury fabric. And if you find you can’t get enough of the brand’s expert fit, this style also comes in black.
- Sizing: UK 4-18
3. Rosie Top & Skirt – Monsoon
If you opted for a dress the first time around, don’t discount the idea of separates for your second marriage wedding dress.
The Rosie skirt and matching top from Monsoon features winding embroidered florals on a gauzy mesh fabric for a vintage-style finish. We love the flirty A-line silhouette of the skirt, and the top has the cute cami included.
- Sizing: UK 6-22
4. Alie Street Gia Dress – John Lewis
For a formal look, this satin halter neck gown from Alie Street couldn’t be more perfect.
The ivory coloured style has just the right amount of stretch for a comfortable fit and a skirt that's beautifully fluid thanks to the centre pleat. There's no need to worry about forgoing a bra either – it’s fully lined and features soft boning in the bodice for extra support.
- Sizing: UK 6-18
5. Boucle Collared Midi Dress – Self Portrait
Delivering the effect of a two-piece, this effortlessly elegant dress from Self Portrait offers a softer take on a classic suit.
The structured bouclé bodice features sparkling diamanté buttons and a chic high neck while, for balance and contrast, the flowing pleated chiffon skirt gives the whole look a lighter-than-air feel. A great option if you’re in search of second marriage wedding dresses for a registry office do.
- Sizing: UK 4-18
6. Cassie Dress – Truvelle
Timeless and romantic but with a modern twist, the Cassie dress from Truvelle is one of our all-time favourites for a second wedding.
The strapless style is crafted in an embossed jacquard fabric – which makes it feel like the more modern sister to a traditional tulle ballgown – with a straight folded neckline and lace-up back. Oh, and did we mention she has pockets?
- Sizing: UK 2-44
7. Kitty Dress – Maids to Measure
The team at Maids to Measure are experts in their craft of creating gorgeous bridesmaid dresses in an array of beautiful colours, but there’s absolutely no reason why a bride couldn’t look just as fabulous in one of the brand's designs.
Choose from one of the label’s gorgeous styles in the likes of soft sage green, pale blue or lilac – or opt for this dress in a champagne-ivory hue for something more typically bridal. The medium-weight satin style is chic, formal and incredibly flattering.
- Sizing: UK 8-24
8. Zadie Bodysuit & Spencer Skirt – Halfpenny London
It’s a rare skill to be able to create collection after collection that not only nails the prevailing bridal trends but also produces gowns and separates to swoon over, but designer Kate Halfpenny continues to do just that.
The Zadie bodysuit – with its statement box-pleat shoulders and high neck – styled with the fit-and-flare floral Spencer skirt is technically brilliant and totally beautiful for a stylish and elegant second marriage look.
- Sizing: Made to order
9. The New Arrivals By Ilkyaz Ozel Noele Dress – Net-a-Porter
Net-a-Porter’s collection of bridalwear is hotter than ever, thanks to an array of brilliant designers like Alex Perry, Halfpenny London and The New Arrivals By Ilkyaz Ozel.
The Noele dress is a head-turning strapless maxi offering just the right amount of glamour for a second wedding – the white satin style features crystal-embellished cups along the neckline and an elegant column skirt with slit in the back.
- Sizing: UK 6-16
10. Poppy Dress – Phase Eight
A long-standing favourite that’s proved popular season after season, the Poppy dress at high-street favourite Phase Eight is second marriage wedding dress perfection.
The short sheer sleeves, hand-beaded belt and delicately embroidered florals give this modern gown a romantic and boho-inspired twist – but with added polish.
- Sizing: UK 6-20
11. Embellished Mesh Dress with Capelet – Mac Duggal
Choosing to forgo a white dress doesn’t mean having to dial down the glamour, as this heavily embellished dress from Mac Duggal proves.
The fitted maxi style has short sleeves with a capelet for those who prefer a bit of extra coverage, while that silver beading is nothing short of exquisite. Be prepared to walk down the aisle to a series of excited gasps!
- Sizing: UK 8-26
12. Isabel Dress – Rembo Atelier
Planning a lowkey city celebration for your second marriage? Rembo Atelier has the perfect collection – and this dress from the bridal label is one of our top picks.
The boho, knee-length style is made from recycled crepe and features a low back cut to the waist, while the voluminous sleeves are pretty and flattering in equal measure. Wear with gold jewellery for a touch of luxe.
- Sizing: Made to order
13. Ordinia Dress – RIXO
For some nearlyweds who are getting married for a second time, the priority is finding a dress they will wear again and again, long after the big day. Cue this stunning 1930s-inspired RIXO dress crafted in a gorgeous silk-velvet fabric with a (bra-friendly!) open back and frothy ruffles on the skirt.
It’ll look divine on your wedding day when styled with a pretty headpiece and country-garden bouquet – and then at every black-tie event thereafter.
- Sizing: UK 6-16
14. Julietta Dress – Rat & Boa
If white or ivory is out of the question for your second marriage wedding dress, you can’t go wrong with a style in an instantly flattering soft pastel palette.
With its halter neckline, open back and asymmetric train, this gorgeous baby blue satin dress from Rat & Boa would look equally great on your honeymoon as it would for your wedding day. It comes with a matching scarf which could also be styled as a headscarf or wrist tie. The perfect beach wedding dress.
- Sizing: UK 4-16
15. Ghost Winslet Dress – John Lewis
Another one for the boho brides, the Winslet dress from Ghost is a simple satin slip that’s effortless to wear and easy to style.
Complement the spaghetti straps and tie-back detail with some delicate jewellery and a sheer elbow-length veil.
- Sizing: UK 8-20
16. Florine Jumpsuit – Azazie
If trousers are more your style, a jumpsuit can have just as much wow factor as a wedding dress.
This style from Azazie features a lace and chiffon bodice with the prettiest semi-sheer straps that give it a traditional ‘bridal’ feel, but it’s the box-pleat wide-leg palazzo pants that make it feel modern, glam and totally carefree.
- Sizing: UK 4-34
17. Taffeta Bandeau Midi Dress – Self Portrait
Channel your inner starlet in this chic offering from Self Portrait. The crisp-white taffeta dress features a flattering bandeau neckline and removable belt, which gives the illusion of a two-piece, while those oversized mottled gold and pearl buttons are the cherry on top. It's movie-star elegance without the A-list price tag.
- Sizing: UK 4-16
18. Colette Dress – Monsoon
With its flared midi silhouette (and pockets!) and wide-strapped bodice, this 1950s-inspired dress from Monsoon embodies retro elegance for your second wedding.
Keep the look classic with ivory accessories, a short veil and delicate jewellery, or give the look a daring pop of colour in a pair of statement shoes. Either way, she’s fun to wear and perfect for twirling.
- Sizing: UK 6-18
19. Zoe Corset & Fatima Trousers – Meshki
Calling all glam brides – this pairing from Meshki is a modern and polished alternative to a second marriage wedding dress.
The trousers are made from a luxurious satin fabric, which means they move beautifully as you do and look striking styled solo or as part of the set, while the boned and lined corset looks equally great with a satin maxi skirt if that’s more your style.
- Sizing: UK 4-18
Second Dresses For Wedding Receptions
From ruffles and fringing to micro minis, our curation of second dresses for wedding receptions has something for everyone.
For even more inspiration, we’ve also got additional options for after-party dresses and reception dresses, whether you want a more glamorous look for the evening festivities or you just can’t commit to wearing one outfit all day (we get it!)
20. Lottie Dress – Nadine Merabi
The most playful way to dress for your evening reception is in a scene-stealing mini – and the addition of the white beaded fringing and feather trim on this style from Nadine Merabi only amps up the glam.
The dress is fully lined in chiffon for easy movement and extra coverage while you’re shaking your thing on the dancefloor.
- Sizing: UK 6-16
21. Dulce Dress – RIXO
The Dulce dress from RIXO’s latest wedding collection has ‘bride second dress’ written all over it.
The fun and opulent mini has the most exquisite pearl-bead embellishment and a scalloped hem and cuffs for a 1920s vintage-inspired look. In fact, we’re pretty sure if Gatsby did second wedding dresses, it would look exactly like this.
- Sizing: UK 6-16
22. Kiera Dress – Reiss Atelier
Who says a wedding second dress can’t have drama? With its delicious silk organza ruffles layered like a fine pastry, this delicate, low-back confection from Reiss will bring out the romantic in you.
The cascading frills are perfect for swishing on the dancefloor, and we love this look styled with a chic oversized blazer for when the evening chill hits.
- Sizing: UK 6-14
23. Poppy Dress – Made With Love
If you’re keen to keep it short and sweet for the after-party, the bold Poppy style from Made With Love is a fun and modern reception dress with a corset-like pearlescent beaded bodice and structured Mikado fabric mini skirt.
There are illusion tulle cut-outs either side too; she’s not a dress made for wallflowers!
- Sizing: Made to order
24. Alex Perry Sequin Midi Dress – Net-a-Porter
Keen to give your disco ball a run for its money? Allow us to point you in the direction of this enchanting Alex Perry midi for your second wedding dress – a crepe style saturated in shimmering sequins but still very much bridal white.
The figure-hugging style still allows for plenty of movement on the dancefloor, too, and you’ll catch the light from almost every angle.
- Sizing: UK 4-14
25. Oona Dress – Grace Loves Lace
If a sexy shift silhouette is more your thing, then you’ll love the Oona dress from Aussie bridal label Grace Loves Lace.
The satin style features a structured mock neck and cute cap sleeves, but the back is really where the party’s at, with a low scoop and dramatically oversized bow. We love the idea of combining it with a sheer lace skirt for contrast – or dare to bare with a pair of statement heels.
- Sizing: UK 8-20
Second Wedding Dresses FAQ
Can I wear a white dress for my second wedding?
Yes, you can wear white for your second, third or even fourth wedding if you wish!
To start, let’s break down this whole brides-in-white business. It wasn’t until Queen Victoria wore an ivory lace dress in 1840 that white dresses became the fashion for British weddings. Before then, although some brides did opt for white, it was actually more traditional for brides to wear red, and white was more commonly worn for mourning.
It was later that the symbolism of purity became associated with a white dress. The point we’re making here is that no bride has to wear white, and anyone can wear white.
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.
What styles suit a second marriage wedding dress?
Similar to the idea of whether you can or can’t wear white, the style of outfit you choose to wear for your wedding should be whatever makes you feel like the best version of yourself. You are in love and it’s your opportunity to celebrate the occasion with the joy it deserves!
For lots of nearlyweds, getting married for a second time is their chance to do things exactly how they want them – and that includes embracing their personal style and wearing what they want.
In fact, bridal fashion expert Peta Hunt has a simple tip when it comes to dressing for your second wedding: “If at first you don’t succeed – go dramatically different the second time!” she laughs.
Popular options include shorter and sleeker dresses, particularly if you did the whole ballgown thing first time around, otherwise some choose to forgo a dress altogether and opt for a stylish suit or jumpsuit.
Below, Peta shares her tips for second marriage wedding dresses:
- Choose the dress for you, not your preconceptions: “Forget about the dress being age relevant – you need to work out what suits you and your wedding style. Planning a city wedding? How about a chic suit and jacket in the style of Jackie O? For a countryside celebration, consider a boho-inspired dress if the aesthetic is laidback, or something fuller if it’s super formal. For an evening wedding, a beaded dress or jumpsuit can work well.”
- Explore pattern: “If you’re thinking of an alternative to white or ivory, you don’t always have to choose a block colour. Explore polka dots, floral prints, geometric patterns… whatever feels right.”
- Focus on quality fit and fabrics: “If you want to keep things simple and elegant, go for a pared-back, perfectly cut dress and splash out on a fab pair of shoes or great jewellery. Don’t forget good underwear, too!”
- Find a muse: “Think about your style icons and look at the kinds of outfits they’d pick. There is lots of inspiration to be found on the red carpet to suit to-be-weds of all ages – for older brides think Sophia Loren, Helen Mirren, Lauren Hutton, Jane Fonda and Ines de la Fressange.”
Where can I buy dresses for my second marriage?
Our edit of the best 2nd marriage wedding dresses includes a vibrant mix of designer and high-street options, including outfits from RIXO, Monsoon, Phase Eight and Net-a-Porter. Lots of bridal designers also have a range of less traditional outfits that work as second wedding dresses too – including Rembo Atelier, Halfpenny London and Truvelle.
What is a second wedding dress vs a second/reception dress?
The phrase ‘second wedding dress’ refers to the outfit worn for a second wedding, whether that’s another wedding later in life to a different person, a vow renewal or simply a second ceremony you have lined up as part of your celebrations (such as the legal bit in a registry office or a destination do).
A second dress or reception dress is the outfit a bride typically changes into for the latter part of the day, often the evening reception.
How do I choose a second dress for the reception or after-party?
Some brides choose a second dress for practical reasons (hey, it can be hard work dancing all night in a huge dress, right?) while many do it as an expression of their personal style. So while there are no hard and fast rules on what you should wear, second dress looks tend to be glitzier and more evening appropriate – think dare-to-bare mini dresses, chic midis, jumpsuits, sequin trousers, feathers and more.
Firstly, choose something that you will feel comfortable dancing and socialising in, possibly in a light, non-restrictive fabric. Consider whether you will mostly be sat down or standing – or both – and also make a mental note of the venue, the theme of your evening celebrations and what shoes you will wear, as these factors will all impact your decision.
Finally, there’s a good chance that you’ll be able to find a second dress that you can wear again long after the big day – so let your personal style shine through!
Ready to shop finishing touches? Find yourself a pair of comfortable wedding shoes that look as amazing as they feel.
