21 Stunning Wedding Reception Dresses to Get the Party Started (2024)

A second look is the perfect opportunity to wear something totally unexpected and different than your ceremony dress, while keeping with the theme and colors of your wedding, if you choose.

Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Nylon, poly, spandex | Length: Mini-Length

Who says a reception dress can't be a little extra? This mini dress features a dramatic bow train that can be detached when it's time to hit the dance floor. You'll feel fancy all night long but be ready to dance without a long train getting in your way.

Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Cotton, nylon | Length: Mid-calf length

Nothing says summer wedding quite like a floral lace midi dress. After the ceremony, slip into this easy, breezy number for a totally carefree and effortless look. The flared skirt will keep all eyes on you as you twirl around the dance floor.

Size Range: 0-12 | Materials: Viscose | Length: Ankle-length

With loose-fitting, off-the-shoulder straps and a figure-flattering bodice, this Reformation dress is the epitome of relaxed elegance. Slip this style on for a completely effortless second look. We love the look for a laidback summer wedding.

Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Nylon, polyester, spandex | Length: Mini-length

Equal parts sweet and playful, this forthy tulle mini dress is sure to leave a lasting impression. It features a boned bodice for extra structure and support as well as a banded waist for a figure-flattering look. We love the idea of adding a veil or a modern headpiece to complete your ensemble.

Size Range: XXS-XL | Materials: Rayon, nylon | Length: Mini-length

As pretty as it is versatile, this frilly co*cktail dress could easily be worn to your engagement party, rehearsal dinner, or as a second look on your wedding day. A budget-friendly option, it will also keep you cool and comfortable in medium-weight stretch knit.

Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Nylon | Length: Floor-length

Jumpsuits are a popular reception look choice and with good reason. Not only are they sleek and modern but they're incredibly easy to move around in, making it a cinch to work the room and show off your signature moves on the dancefloor. We love this option for the bride looking to make a statement.

Size Range: 14-28 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Mini-length

We love how this design lets you change into a mini dress for the reception, while still maintaining the drama of a cape. The cape is made from non-stretch organza with elastic at the top edge and puff sleeves. Even better, you can take off the cape and sleeves for a streamlined strapless mini look.

Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester | Length: Mini-length

Nothing says celebration quite like an allover sequin mini. This sparkly number was born for the dance floor and made for an afterparty that goes late into the night (and morning!) We particularly love this high-shine number as an unexpected counterpart to a more traditional ceremony dress.

Size Range: XS-L | Materials: Viscose, ostrich feathers | Length: Mini-length

Make an unforgettable entrance in this stunning feather creation from Cult Gaia. Not only will this mini dress look great in all of your reception photos, but it's also as light as air so it won't weigh you down on the dance floor. The ostrich-feather trimmed dress also comes in other colors if you'd like to shun tradition and don a bright shade.

Size Range: 0-20; Short, Regular, Petite | Materials: Virgin wool | Length: Floor-length

More of a fashion-forward bride? Go for this ultra-cool wedding suit. We love the jacket paired with a silky camisole or a sexy bralette for a more daring look. The impeccably tailored wide-leg trousers feel modern and polished.

Size Range: 2-12 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor-length

If you're searching for a formal reception dress that feels special but doesn't compete with your wedding gown, may we suggest this floor-length number? Timeless and supremely elegant, this pared-back dress makes for the perfect second look for a black-tie wedding.

Size Range: 0-16 | Materials: Polyester dupioni | Length: Mini-length

Looking to show off your legs (and moves!) on the dance floor? This pearl-embellished mini is the ultimate party dress. Pair yours with matching white accessories or go bold with colorful strappy sandals, fun earrings, and a red lip.

Size Range: 0-12 | Materials: Silk | Length: Floor-length

If you're a minimalist bride who covets simple silhouettes and clean lines, then opt for an effortlessly chic slip dress. This slinky Reformation number oozes sophistication and features alluring and unexpected details like a lace trim around the neckline.

Size Range: 0-14 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Midi-Length

Changing into a reception dress pretty much signals that it's time to get the party started, so have fun with your look! We love this sparkly midi dress complete with pearls and a unique feather hem, perfect for taking you from the reception to the afterparty.

Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyeste | Length: Mini-length

If you're opting for an impossibly chic city hall wedding à la Bianca Jagger, this is the dress for you. Equal parts sexy and sophisticated, this blazer dress is for the bride who embraces a non-traditional look. It's also versatile, so practical brides will love the chance to wear it again.

Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor-length

If you love the idea of wearing a traditional gown for your ceremony but want something a little different for your reception look, consider this satin vest and pant set from Ronny Kobo. This versatile set can be worn over and over again long after you say "I do."

Size Range: 2-12 | Materials: Viscose, Polyamide, Elastane, Polyester | Length: Midi-Length

This Alexis gown features soft pleats that move when you move. It's giving Marilyn Monroe in the best bridal way. Just watch out for any floor vents.

Size Range: 2-12 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Midi-length

For brides who crave a little glitz and glam but at an affordable price, we've got you covered! This style from ASOS features a simple but beautiful silhouette embellished with allover sequins perfect for the summer bride looking for a little sparkle. This body-skimming, breezy pick will keep you comfortable while you twirl the night away.

Size Range: XXS-XXL | Materials: Polyester | Length: Mini-length

For a swinging sixties look, we love this mini dress from Show Me Your Mumu. Cut on a bias, it has that perfect slip draping meant for dancing. The twist halter is ultra-flattering and the low back adds that touch of sexiness.

Size Range: 0-14 | Materials: Polyester, Nylon, Spandex | Length: Floor Length

Come on Barbie, let's go party! The reception is the perfect occasion to add some Barbiecore to your wedding look, and we're digging this tulle pink dress. Not only does it come in the perfect shade of pink, but the semi-sheer tulle fabric adds a fun, playful energy. You can also opt for a orchid or black shade to switch it up.

Size Range: 0-16 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Tea Length

Featuring retro details like a bustier bodice and a tea-length hem, this Showpo dress is perfect for the bride with a vintage-inspired aesthetic. You can't beat the price either.

FAQ

• When should I change into my reception dress?

  One of the keys to managing multiple bridal looks is timing. And the good news is totally up to you! Some brides change into their reception outfit straight after the ceremony, before the cake-cutting, or before it's time to hit the dance floor. Changing into a reception dress can signal to your wedding guests that it's time to get the party started!

• What can I wear for my wedding reception?

  The sky's the limit! Some popular reception outfit choices include mini dresses, allover sequin styles, simple slip dresses, bridal suits, and jumpsuits. The key is wearing something that you feel comfortable and confident in.

• Do I have to have a separate dress for the reception?

  Just like it's your choice to wear what you want to the reception, you can also choose not to get a second dress. If you absolutely adore your wedding dress and feel comfortable enough to wear it all night, there's no reason to change.

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