So you’ve said your vows, made it down the aisle without tripping (yasss!), and now it’s time for the fun part: the party! But here’s the catch — your wedding dress is gorgeous, yes, but also heavy, tight, and not exactly built for dancing your face off. Enter: the reception dress.
If you’ve been asking yourself, “Do I really need a second dress for the reception?” or frantically Googling “best reception dress for bride to dance in”, you’re in the right place.
Let’s talk about why reception dresses are a game-changer — and how to find the perfect one for your style, comfort level, and post-vow vibe.
Why Brides Wear a Reception Dress
Your reception dress isn’t just a second outfit. It’s a strategic move.
- Comfort: After hours in a structured gown, you’ll want something that lets you breathe. And sit. And eat cake.
- Mobility: Most wedding dresses weren’t made for the Cha Cha Slide or busting out a split. A reception dress says, “Let’s dance.”
- Style Switch-Up: This is your chance to show off a second look — maybe something sparkly, short, or totally unexpected.
- Photos: Two outfits = more content, and who doesn’t love that?
Brides are choosing everything from sleek satin slip dresses to mini fringe numbers, sequins, jumpsuits, and even feather-trimmed sets. It’s a “second look” era, and we’re here for it.
How to Choose the Best Reception Dress for You
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to the best bridal reception dress. It totally depends on your personal vibe. Here’s what to consider:
✔️ Your Wedding Theme or Venue
A beach wedding? Think light, flowy, and maybe barefoot-friendly. Downtown rooftop? Go bold. Rustic barn party? Maybe something playful or boho with a little fringe or sparkle.
✔️ Comfort Level
Can you sit, dance, and eat in it without needing assistance? The dress is cute, yes — but can it handle a plate of pasta and a champagne toast?
✔️ Your Main Dress
If your ceremony dress is already glitzy and glam, maybe go short and sweet for the reception. If your first look was minimalist, this is your chance to go all out with sequins or feathers.
✔️ Photos + Timing
When will you change? Before the first dance? After cake cutting? Choose something that transitions smoothly in photos and still feels bridal.
Where to Find the Best Bridal Reception Dresses
We rounded up the cutest, comfiest, and most jaw-dropping reception dresses for brides — whether you want something short and sparkly or long and romantic.
Keep reading for our hand-picked favorites that are actually in stock, don’t cost a fortune, and are 100% worthy of your dance floor debut.
1. White Halter Asymmetrical Midi Dress, $72
I love this reception dress for the bride under $100! I can’t believe the price for the quality. It is made with a nice, rich satin fabric, a sleeveless bodice, and a midi-length skirt. Cute! By Lulus.
2. Short Ruffle Mini Dress, $140
This adorable mini dress will become your reception dress (but also every pre-wedding celebration staple!) By Endless Rose.
3. Sheer Long Sleeve Mini Dress, $169
Currently on sale! Super cute, totally made for dancing. By Azazie.
4. Off-the-Shoulder Ruffle Dress, $59
This dress is a cute mini style and features sheer lace and a scalloped neckline. By Lulus.
5. Long Sleeve Satin Dress, $152
By Azazie.
6. Square Neck Flared Out Dress with Beading and – POCKETS!
By Azazie.
7. Lace Pearl Mini Dress, $128
Stylish? Yes. Mini? You’ve got it. Dance-worthy? Absolutely. By Lulus.
8. Sparkly Sequin Mini, $258
By designer Mare Mare.
9. White Puff Sleeve Maxi Dress, $99
Under $100, this stylish puff-sleeve maxi dress will let you dance the night away. By Lulus.
10. Strappy White Tiered Midi Dress, $92
Get it here.
11. White Bodycon Midi Length Dress with Straps, $69
This is adorable: a strappy midi dress makes the perfect white reception dress for brides under $100! It looks comfortable yet very stylish. Get it here.
12. Mini White Sheath Dress in Lace, $211
Loving all the lace on this one! By Azazie.
13. One-Shoulder 3D Floral Dress, $88
Wear a little white dress like this one with fun fringe on the hemlines for a little drama! Get it at Lulus.
14. White 3D Floral Midi Dress with Tie Straps, $94
This is such a cute dress! From the 3D floral tulle appliques to the tie straps, what more could you want? It’s perfect! By Lulu’s.
15. Lace Midi Dress with Shoulder Ties, $175
By English Factory.
16. One-Shoulder Satin White Maxi Dress, $99 ($74 on sale now!)
A stylish one-shoulder look in sumptuous satin. Love it! Shop here.
17. Satin Maxi Reception Dress, $148
This dress is remarkably stunning! Slip into it and dance the night away at your reception with ease in luxe, satiny fabric. By Lulus.
18. Square Neck Satin Mini, $148
By BHLDN.
19. Sparkly Sequin Maxi, $118
Slip into this sparkly dress for your reception! By Lulus.
20. Short Sequin Bodycon Dress, $89
Go for all the sparkles in this cute mini bodycon dress adorned with sequins. Shop here.
21. Strappy Mini, $85
A cute, simple, yet elegant mini dress by designer English Factory – UNDER $100!
22. Pearl Strapless Midi, $165
Wear this midi dress covered in beautiful pearls for a classic bridal reception look. By Endless Rose.
23. Embroidered Off-The-Shoulder Mini Dress, $51
By Lulus.
24. Long Sleeve Sparkly Mini Dress, $88
Make (another) grand entrance in this silver sparkly dress! Love the long sleeve, mini combo. By Lulus.
25. Classic Maxi Dress with Bridal Buttons and Tie-Straps, $148
Get the bridal look – but still be able to dance the night away! Available at Lulus.
26. Ivory Strapless Jacquard Dress, $79
A beautiful strapless dress you’ll love to rock the night away in! Get it here.
27. Satin Pleated Stretch Midi Dress, $152
By Azazie.
28. Bubble Hem Dress, $126
A cute mini! Love the bubble hem. By Azazie.
29. White Tie-Strap Maxi Dress, $118
Go bold with this cute tie-shoulder maxi that looks comfortable yet elegant. By Lulu’s.
30. Lace Midi Dress, $59
Shop this look here.
31. Fringe Champagne Mini Dress, $79
Make a statement in this ultra-stylish form-fitting fringe dress! It’s such a cute champagne colored reception dress for the bride. By Lulu’s.
FAQ: Reception Dresses for Brides
Do I really need a second dress for my wedding?
Nope! But a lot of brides say it was one of the best decisions they made. You’ll be more comfortable, your photos will be fun, and you’ll actually be able to move freely. If your ceremony gown is super formal, heavy, or hard to walk in, a second dress can be a game-changer.
When do brides change into their reception dress?
Most brides switch right after the ceremony or after the formalities (like dinner or first dance). Some do it right before the reception entrance for a grand second debut. There’s no rule — it’s your call.
Can my reception dress still look “bridal”?
Absolutely. White, ivory, champagne — or go bold with color. As long as it feels like *you*, it counts. Look for fabrics like satin, sequins, lace, or feathers if you want to keep that bridal energy going.
How much should I spend on a reception dress?
Anywhere from $50 to $500 is totally normal, depending on your budget. If you’re not looking to splurge, there are *so many* cute reception dresses under $150 that look expensive but aren’t.
Can I wear a jumpsuit instead of a dress?
Heck yes. Bridal jumpsuits are a whole vibe — comfy, cool, and totally unexpected. Same goes for matching sets or embellished mini dresses.
Final Thoughts: One Dress is Good. Two is Better.
Your wedding day is a marathon — not a sprint. And while your ceremony dress may be the showstopper, your reception dress is the MVP that lets you actually *enjoy* the party.
Whether you’re going for sparkly, slinky, romantic, or ready-to-twerk — the best reception dress for you is the one that lets you live your best newlywed life without a wardrobe malfunction.
Ready to find yours? Scroll up — our picks are too good to miss. 👆
