Wondering if you really need two wedding dresses for your big day? Discover expert advice from Lovella Bridal, the top luxury bridal boutique in Los Angeles, on whether a second or backup wedding dress is worth it. From fashion-forward outfit changes to avoiding dress malfunctions, this guide helps Southern California brides make stylish, stress-free decisions for their wedding wardrobe.
Planning your wedding day outfit can be one of the most exciting parts of your bridal journey, especially for brides shopping for a luxury wedding dress in Los Angeles or throughout Southern California. But a common question we often hear at Lovella Bridal is: “Do I really need a second wedding dress or a backup dress?”
So, let's talk about it in this post and video. Whether you're envisioning multiple fashion moments or just want peace of mind, here's everything you need to know about having a second dress for your wedding day, straight from our expert bridal stylists at Lovella Bridal, LA’s destination for couture and designer bridal gowns.
Watch: Do You Really Need Two Dresses for Your Wedding Day?
If you're planning out every fashion moment of your wedding day, you won't want to miss Lovella's Wedding Fashion Expert sharing whether or not you really need two dresses. Watch the video below for the best bridal styling tips and expert advice on deciding if a second or backup dress is right for you.
Why Some Brides Wear Two Dresses on Their Wedding Day
Suffice to say, wedding day outfit changes are on trend and likely here to stay. From the red carpet to the aisle, today’s brides are treating their wedding day like a full-blown fashion event and rightly so! Many of our fashion-forward brides in Los Angeles and beyond choose to wear two (or even more) dresses: one for the ceremony, and another for the reception. This not only offers a fun outfit change but also helps brides feel more comfortable as the day transitions from formal to festive.
In addition to outfit changes from ceremony to reception, brides are considering additional looks for the after party and the after, after party. They are also curating their entire wedding weekend of looks to include coordinating their outfits for a welcome parry, getting ready as well as a going away brunch.
But even if you're not planning a grand outfit reveal, there are practical reasons to consider having a backup or second dress.
Why a Backup Wedding Dress Is Always a Good Idea
Whether you're spending a few hundred dollars or opting for a second designer gown, our stylists at Lovella Bridal in Glendale, CA always recommend having a second wedding dress on hand. Here’s why:
- Dress Malfunctions Can Happen
Accidents are rare, but they do happen. From spilled wine and torn trains to broken zippers or boning that pokes through, a wedding day dress malfunction can quickly turn stressful. Having a stylish and ready-to-wear second dress - that you know fits you and that you know you love - ensures you're never without a plan B. - Comfort Is Key
Bridal gowns are not like everyday clothes. Many feature corsetry, boning, intricate beading, or heavy layers that look incredible in photos but can feel restrictive after hours of wear. Your backup dress could be a lightweight, silky gown or chic mini dress that gives you the freedom to dance, hug your guests, and celebrate in comfort.
Especially for Southern California weddings, where outdoor ceremonies and warm receptions are popular, a second dress can help you stay cool and confident all day and night.
What Kind of Backup Dress Should You Consider?
We’re not talking about a last-minute online order that doesn’t fit properly. Even your backup wedding dress should make you feel beautiful and confident. When shopping for a second or backup dress, consider the following:
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Straps or support: If your ceremony dress is strapless, think about switching into a dress with straps for the reception. This can relieve pressure on your waist and back, especially after hours of standing, dancing, and celebrating.
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Fabric and fit: Look for something breathable, flowy, or stretchy. You want to be able to move comfortably and feel relaxed.
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Style statement: This is your chance to show a different side of your bridal personality that might be opposite your first dress, maybe a sleek slip dress, a sparkly mini, or something playful and bold.
And if you're unsure whether you’ll actually use the second dress, try purchasing from a store with a 30-day return policy so you have the option to return it if it goes unworn.
The OSH*T Plan: Peace of Mind on Your Wedding Day
At Lovella Bridal, we lovingly refer to the backup dress as your “OSH*T plan.” Because if something unexpected happens (and let’s be real, it’s life, it might!), you’ll be so glad you came to your wedding day prepared.
Just like packing an emergency kit with a second pair of shoes, or bringing blotting papers for your makeup, it’s all about being prepared so you can stay present and enjoy every moment.
LA Brides, Your Dream Dress (and Backup) Awaits
Whether you're shopping for a show-stopping ceremony gown, a stylish reception look, or just want the peace of mind that comes with a fashionable backup option, Lovella Bridal has you covered.
Our luxury bridal boutique in Glendale, California, just outside Los Angeles, is home to the most coveted designer wedding dresses from global couture houses. Our expert stylists are here to guide you through every dress decision: primary, backup, and everything in between.
Wedding Dress Shopping Tips from Lovella Bridal Los Angeles
We hope you have found this advice helpful for knowing whether you should plan to have a second or backup dress for wedding day. For even more helpful advice when it comes to bridal styling and the wedding dress shopping experience, be sure to check out our past posts:
- Should Your Wedding Dress Match Your Wedding Venue?
- Should You Buy a Wedding Dress that is Classic or Trendy?
- Reception Bridal Fashion Inspiration
- Why Every Bride Needs a Bridal Stylist While Wedding Dress Shopping
Meet Lovella’s Wedding Fashion Expert in Los Angeles
Our wedding dress shopping tips and advice are from Nayri, Lovella's own, in-house wedding fashion expert. Nayri is truly the expert when it comes to bridal fashion and wedding style. As the Wedding Fashion Expert, Nayri is the top bridal fashion stylist and the best-selling author of the book "I'm Getting Married And I Have Nothing To Wear," the ultimate guide to helping brides find their wedding day style and their perfect wedding dress. You can subscribe to her YouTube channel or listen to her podcast for more helpful and practical advice on wedding dress shopping.
