What works in one section of the wedding — for example, a dramatic train or cathedral-length veil — will quickly become a hassle in another. Many brides want to wear a more traditional, conservative dress for the ceremony, especially if it is in a church, and save the trendier or more revealing styles for the reception.

If a bride wants to make a bold statement on her wedding day, she’ll do it with her dresses. Plural. Some are going for dresses that have detachable sections or they will just completely change into a jumpsuit, two-piece set or romper. For those who have only one wedding dress but still want to switch up your reception look for a fresh, new style — all you need is a little creativity and the right accessories. For those looking for creative ways to change up their look, here are some ideas:

Add pops of colour to your wedding attire for the reception

White is the traditional colour for brides. You probably will want to keep the traditional look for the wedding, but the reception is the perfect place to add a colourful sash, incorporate some of your bouquet flowers into your hairpiece, or throw on a bright-coloured pair of shoes.

Glam up your make-up

Make-up styles vary from day to night. In broad daylight, simpler, more natural make-up styles fare best because of the strong light. Perhaps you want a softer, more romantic look for the ceremony. The wedding reception is the right time to pop on a bold lip colour or add some smoky eyeshadow to your look. Whatever you choose, make sure you practise the two different looks ahead of time so that you know they will work together.

Change up your jewellery

Once you start changing up your look, you may realise that some of your accessories don’t fit the style as well as you had planned. Chandelier earrings may be too much with your veil, or you may want a statement necklace that would be too much for a church ceremony. Adding and removing jewellery are effective ways to customise your bridal look and make it all your own.

Let your hair down or add new hair accessories

Most brides do not wear their veils for the reception, especially cathedral veils. When you remove the veil, add a flower crown, jewelled clip, or another fun accessory. Choosing a hairstyle can be tough. Up? Down? Half-up and half-down? You could pull off one of each. Choose a sleek style for the ceremony, then let your hair down for the reception. You’ll be as daring as the latest viral social media video in which the bride cuts her hair (big chop) between the ceremony and reception.

Get fun with comfortable shoes

When Serena Williams changed into a pair of crystal-encrusted tennis shoes for her reception she embraced her superstar athlete status which was way more comfortable while dancing at her wedding. You may be more of a sandal, flip-flop, or sneaker kind of bride to get down on the dance floor. Do what best represents your comfort.

Conclusion

How to know what’s best for your style change — ask yourself: Are you changing to show a different side of your personality? To dance more comfortably? Are you changing simply because it’s your wedding and you can? You’re not a dressy-dress kind of girl and want to be comfortable? Once you know your “why”, you’ll be able to find the perfect second look that meets your needs.

The aesthetic of your special day should be reflected in your wedding styling and it’s simple to make minor adjustments. Whatever style you decide on, your attire should express how beautiful you feel on the inside.