Second-Time Brides: Tips To Choose The Perfect Wedding Dress For A Second Wedding

Brides who are getting married the second time will usually be familiar with the wedding dress shopping experience. However, if this isn’t the first time you are a bride, you may have memories of how your previous wedding shopping session was and remember the excitement of finding the first dress. This factor can influence your overall experience when you attempt to find a great wedding dress again.

However, there is another side to the coin. You will be older, wiser and have a better idea of what you want when you go shopping this time. From where you are in your life now, you will likely be more confident and think your decisions through. This will also aid your wedding dress selection. Also, if you weren’t entirely happy with your dress decision last time, you can now make up for it. So, shopping for your wedding dress should be exciting once again.

Although it is impossible to keep comparing your choices to what you wore or bought for your first wedding, remember that this new phase in life is also about leaving the past behind. As you step into a new chapter of your life, be open and flexible with your choices. This will help you analyze your options objectively and choose a dress that fully meets your expectations.

To help you further, here are some of our insider tips for second-time brides to choose the perfect wedding dress for your wedding day.

Do your research once again

Wedding dress styles and options will have changed a lot from the last time you went shopping. Although the traditional silhouettes will still be available, newer and more exciting options may be explored. So, do your research before you set foot in a bridal store. First, look at what is trending and shortlist styles that appeal to you. Then, collect pictures of the dress features you like and note what you would like to see in your wedding dress. This will make your shopping session more productive.

Look for something different

You may have looked impressive in your old wedding gown. Nonetheless, this is the time to explore entirely different options and embrace a whole new look. There will be other silhouettes, fabric and dress features that flatter you. So, look out for these options. Find dress styles that will enhance your best assets that are significantly different from your old gown. This is your chance to do better in your life once again, and let this factor extend to your wedding dress decision as well.

Look for dresses that compliment your personality

Every bride should only choose a dress that reflects her taste. The wedding dress is an extension of your personality. So, don’t worry about following traditions or rules when selecting yours. Only settle for a dress that appeals to your likes. This could be an extension of what you wear regularly. Or it could be an entirely different dress. Only you know what you truly want. So, consider this factor well and find a dress that speaks to you.

Match your dress choice to the style of wedding you plan

Let your venue and wedding theme help you choose your wedding dress. For traditional wedding styles, classic gowns may be better than modern, trendy options. On the other hand, if your wedding is casual, laid-back, choose simple silhouettes and casual dress styles to match the tone. Although second-time brides may prefer a shorter and simpler dress, no rule suggests so. Ultimately it is your choice to find a dress that matches the venue and wedding style while adding to your beauty. Here are some ideas on the Wedding Ideas Magazine to find dresses that are suitable for your theme.

Dress according to your age and body shape

Most second-time brides are mature brides. If this is the case, you should choose a style and silhouette that best suits your body shape and overall appearance. Look for dresses that make you look like a younger, brighter version of yourself. Although mature brides tend to gravitate towards classic dress silhouettes like the A-line and fit and flare,  nothing should deter you from trying a cocktail-length dress or a fishtail gown. Analyze your body type and find out whether there are any areas you would like to hide. Also, identify the assets you would like to show off. Then choose a dress that camouflages the less desirable parts while drawing attention to the more attractive features.

Be bold enough to defy tradition

Traditionally, the bridal dress was never white. However, white wedding dresses are, in fact, a trend that emerged in the Victorian era. Although most brides still prefer to wear white on their wedding day, you can always break the norm. Stunning colourful wedding gowns constantly make the rounds on runways. Explore these attractive options in light and bright colours. Or choose printed wedding dresses that have been trending recently. Florals and watercolour details are typically associated with wedding dresses.

Your dress should make you feel special

Don’t dismiss the dress as a less important factor about your wedding. Whether your wedding is an intimate affair or a grand bash, you deserve to feel special on this big day in your life. It doesn’t matter how much you spend on your dress. Instead, more important is that you love your wedding dress, how it drapes on you and how it makes you feel. With dresses in all price ranges, you will have plenty of options to pick a unique dress and make you a beautiful bride once again.

Don’t even think of wearing the dress you wore the first time around

If there is one rule to strictly adhere to when you are a second-time bride, it is never to use your first wedding dress again. Even if you never got to wear it because your engagement was called off. A dress that wasn’t bought for this wedding day shouldn’t be the one you wear for it. Wearing your old wedding dress will take the focus off your new marriage. So, we suggest you start your special day on a new footing with an entirely new wedding dress. Try to keep it very different from what you wore the first time around to avoid comparisons between the two.

Think of comfort and practical constraints

Make sure that wearing a comfortable dress is one of your top priorities. Don’t choose a dress style that makes you feel conscious of how you look. Also, avoid dresses that are too heavy or difficult to manage. Before you commit to a dress, check if it is easy to move around in and fits comfortably. If you feel it looks good but feels uncomfortable, you should keep looking.

There are no hard and fast rules on what you should or should not wear when wed the second time. Nevertheless, there are some general trends in the dresses that mature brides opt for on such occasions. Based on this, here are some suggestions to help you get inspired.

Wedding dress suggestions for second-time brides

Elegant vintage wedding dresses

Most brides gravitate towards elegance and sophistication when they look for their wedding dresses. Dresses from bygone eras have the romance and demure finesse to achieve this look. These dresses also usually feature classic style elements that make them comfortable to wear for an older bride.

This Mori Lee gown is a ravishing beauty, with its classic V-neckline and A-line silhouette. The sparkling chevron waistband enhances the pristine clarity of the white, making this a splendid dress that is simple yet captivating.

Shorter hemlines

Many brides have already had a chance to enjoy their princess look the first time. So, they tend to look for more casual styles. And what better choice than a dress with a shorter hemline. This style is particularly apt if your wedding is low-key and you prefer a more straightforward bridal look.

This dress from the Monica Loretti collection is an enchanting short dress with cord lace details extending into full-length sleeves and a beautiful bateau neckline. The illusion details create a bridal look, while it isn’t overpowering and perfect for a casual vibe.

Illusion-style wedding dresses

Romantic, classy and dainty, illusion lace details instantly enhance the splendour of any dress. Peek-a-boo lace is always feminine, and second-time brides who have already tried a glamorous look before often choose the delicate, feminine look the second time around.

Dreamy illusion hand embroidery details form beautiful embellishments on this soft Monica Loretti dress. The A-line gown is crafted from smooth, flowing fabric with an embroidered illusion bodice over the sweetheart neckline as the only embellishment. This is a stylish yet elegant choice for a second-time bride.

Long sleeve dresses

Whether to conceal your upper arms or look modest, many brides look forward to exploring options in gowns with full-length sleeves. Long sleeves are often slimming, and it works with various silhouettes to create different effects. It is also a timeless style that appeals to older brides. Full-length sleeves can also be designed with the help of a jacket or bolero over your chosen dress if you are unable to find a dress that appeals to you entirely.

Another dress from the Monica Loretti collection, the Melisa, has lace illusion sleeves over a stunning strapless bodice. The vivid textures in the lace sleeves beautifully complement the soft flowy finish of the gown. The streamlined A-line silhouette is also classy, and the pretty waistband enhances the effect of a slender waistline. This dress style has a slimming effect, and it is a lovely choice that is powerful without too many details.

Dresses with showstopper details

It is not about having every attractive feature in the dress, but about highlighting few details with due importance. Dresses with just one showstopper detail are a massive hit with second-time brides. This allows them to show off their taste without going overboard with too many details.

Before you dismiss this gown as a simple lace wedding dress with spaghetti straps in the front and few crystal embellishments along the neckline, please take a look at the beauty it is in the back.

Here is a stunning back that will amaze everyone. The bodice extends into a narrow strap that borders a sexy cut-out detail above the waistline. It is an unexpected and exciting style that will capture the attention of your wedding guests. This dress shows off your sensual side, which is unusually interesting and suitable for your bold personality.

Just a dash of colour can make all the difference.

Leave your old life behind, and begin your new chapter on a brand new and entirely different note when you wear a colourful wedding dress. A subtle dose of colour will set your look apart without spoiling the bridal effect. Choose colours or prints that suit your complexion for the best development. Or go with the latest trends in wedding dress colours.

This beauty from the Mon Cheri collection is simply magnificent, with striking lace appliques that swim over the entire length. In addition, an overlay skirt forms panels on either side of the waistline, while the original dress has a fit and flare skirt. This is a dress that will help you sport two distinct looks on your wedding day without spending on two entirely different dresses. Hence it is a practical and exciting choice.

You may be getting married the second or third time, but a Bride is a Bride. Don’t hesitate to explore your options and dream big when it comes to your wedding dress. If you regret your wedding dress shopping the first time, this is the opportunity to fix it. So, make your decisions only when you are sure it is correct.

All the dresses are seen here, and more are available at our Best for Bride wedding dress gallery. Click here to visit our collection and shortlist your favourites. 

Summary: Second-Time Brides: Tips to Choose the Perfect Wedding Dress for a Second Wedding

1. Consider Your Personal Style:

• Choose a wedding dress that reflects your personal style and makes you feel confident and comfortable. Consider your preferences, whether it’s a classic, modern, or unconventional look.

2. Embrace Your Individuality:

• Embrace your individuality as a second-time bride and feel free to break away from traditional bridal norms. Explore unique dress options that showcase your personality.

3. Opt for Subtle Elegance:

• For a second wedding, opt for a wedding dress that exudes subtle elegance. Choose refined silhouettes, sophisticated details, and quality fabrics that flatter your figure.

4. Explore Different Colors:

• Consider exploring wedding dresses in different colors, such as blush, champagne, or even pastel hues. These can create a unique and romantic look for your second wedding.

5. Focus on Fit and Comfort:

• Prioritize a well-fitting and comfortable wedding dress. Ensure that it accentuates your best features and allows you to move and dance with ease throughout the celebration.

6. Choose the Right Length:

• Depending on the style and formality of your second wedding, you can opt for a shorter dress, a tea-length gown, or even a chic pantsuit. Select a length that suits the overall vibe of the event.

7. Consider a Veil or Accessories:

• Enhance your wedding look with the right accessories, such as a veil, headpiece, or statement jewelry. These elements can elevate your attire and add a touch of bridal charm.

8. Don’t Be Afraid to Reuse or Repurpose:

• If you have a sentimental attachment to your previous wedding dress, consider reusing or repurposing it for your second wedding. Alterations can transform it into a new and meaningful gown.

FAQ – Second Weddings

Is having a second wedding unusual?

Second weddings can be particularly precious because they represent a second shot at happiness. The pair will often feel more empowered and confident, knowing that they are more comfortable with what they truly desire.

Do parents cover the cost of a second wedding?

The expense of the second wedding is normally shared between the bride and husband. If your parents offer to help, kindly accept their offer, but don’t expect them to cover the entire cost.

When it comes to getting married a second time, how long should you date before doing so?

Even if you’ve known each other for many years, it’s best to wait at least six to eight months before assuming you know anything concrete about the person you’re seeing.

In a second wedding, who will escort the bride down the aisle?

A second-time bride with a living father or mother may be accompanied down the aisle by their parent (s). A second-time groom may want his parents to accompany him down the aisle as well. A couple may also request that a kid or children accompany them down the aisle as a way to engage them in the celebration and demonstrate the union of two families, not simply two individuals.

Is it OK to invite my ex-husband to my wedding?

No, you are not required to invite your ex to your wedding, however, you may do so if you have a good connection with him or her. In such a scenario, you should ask your fiancée whether it’s good if you invite your ex.

Why is it preferable to be the second wife?

Being someone’s second wife may drive you to take a more mature and polite approach to your relationship. It can help you learn to talk about the present and the future – because your spouse is unlikely to make the same mistakes twice.