Finding the Perfect Dress as a Second-Time Bride
As a second-time bride who had already experienced the “big wedding” with the “big wedding gown,” I knew I wanted something completely different the second time around. My first wedding was filled with all the expected frills and fanfare. But for this new chapter, my true love story, I craved simplicity without sacrificing the wow factor. I wanted a comfortable dress, that fit my whimsical vibe, and truly felt like me. With a tea-length design in mind and a desire for flats instead of heels, I steered clear of traditional bridal salons and ventured into Anthropologie's bridal studio at the Century City Mall. When my husband saw my dress, he said, "It’s you." And that was the moment I knew I had found the perfect dress for this special occasion.
If you’re also a second-time bride and looking to find a dress that reflects your style and acknowledges your second chance at love, I’ve got some tips to help you navigate this unique journey.
Embrace Your Unique Style Don’t feel pressured to conform to traditional bridal expectations. Honestly, this should apply to first-time brides too. But I find that with the second wedding, there’s significantly less pressure and expectations. Your wedding dress should reflect who you are now, not just who you were (and what you wore) the first time around. For me, this meant ditching the veil and opting for a tea-length dress with a whimsical vibe. Think about what makes you feel fabulous and go with that!
Opt for Comfort Comfort is key because weddings are long, busy events with lots of standing, walking, and dancing. I chose flats over heels and found the cutest slingback flats with floral appliqué that matched my dress. Whether it’s sneakers, flats, a pair of stylish sandals, or even sky-high stilettos, make sure your shoes are comfortable and fit your style.
Go Off the Beaten Path Skip the traditional bridal salons and explore other options. I went to Anthropologie’s bridal studio, where I found a dress that was not only perfect but also incredibly affordable at just $315! Look into your favorite boutiques or online stores that might offer a small selection of formal or wedding dresses with the vibe you’re going for.
Include Special Touches Incorporate personal elements to make the day even more meaningful. I had a friendship bracelet made by my daughter to serve as my something blue; matching gold bracelets made with my daughter to help her feel included; and a very dainty floral headband instead of a veil. Whether it’s a sentimental accessory or a small detail, these touches can add a lot of authenticity and heart to your ensemble.
Plan Ahead and Enjoy the Process Allow yourself time to enjoy the process of finding your dress. I tried on several options and even had my daughter with me to make it a special experience for her too. The key is to savor each moment and make sure the final choice feels right for you.
Finding the perfect wedding dress as a second-time bride is all about embracing who you are now and making the day uniquely yours. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments or connect with me on Instagram for more wedding inspiration and tips. I’d love to hear how you’re making your second wedding dress experience special!
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