How to Choose a Second Marriage Wedding Dress, Plus 15 Dresses to Shop Now
While some brides look back and laugh—or cringe—at their fashion choices from their wedding day, brides getting remarried get a do-over and with stunning options for second marriage wedding dresses. While your style may have evolved over the years, the same rules apply for choosing a second wedding dress when it comes to how you want to feel on your big day. Your dress should make you feel like the best version of yourself and represent your personal style.
We spoke to Laura Deady Holt, chief merchandising officer at Lulus, for her expert advice to brides choosing second marriage dresses. "At Lulus, we like to think there are no 'have tos' when it comes to what you wear to your wedding," Deady Holt shares. "We believe your dress should reflect you, whether that's classic and minimal or fresh and fashion-forward." Below, we share our top tips for choosing a second marriage wedding dress, plus our 15 editor-approved picks to shop right now.
In this article:
- How to Choose a Second Marriage Wedding Dress
- Where to Shop for Wedding Outfits for Second Marriages
- Second Marriage Wedding Dresses to Shop Now
How to Choose a Second Marriage Wedding Dress
Whether you're planning an elaborate soiree or a low-key courthouse wedding, you will want a fabulous dress to commemorate the special occasion. Now that you're older and wiser, you can forego the traditional "rules" of wedding dress shopping.
Can you wear a wedding dress for a second marriage ceremony?
"Absolutely! If you've always dreamed of walking down the aisle in a traditional wedding gown, go for it," Deady Holt encourages. "If you wore a traditional gown the first time, but you want to rock the full-on bridal look again, go for it. A second wedding is just as special, and there's no rule saying you can't wear a full-length gown, a train or even a veil. What matters most is that you feel stunning."
How to choose what color wedding dress for a second marriage ceremony?
When choosing a second marriage dress, there's no need to stick to only traditional white dresses when you begin your search. "While white is still a beautiful and timeless choice, second weddings are all about celebrating your love story your way," Deady Holt shares. " Brides often feel empowered to branch out into champagne, blush, soft blue—even metallics, floral prints or black. It's your day, and you should look and feel like the best version of yourself, whatever that means—that goes for your wedding look, whether you've walked down the aisle before or not!"
"Think about the tone of your celebration and your personal style. Is your ceremony intimate and outdoors? Soft pastels or floral details can feel just right for a garden party vibe. Going for glam with a formal event? Consider metallics, black or luxe textures like satin. Trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to choose a color that brings out your glow—after all, this is your moment."
Where to Shop for Wedding Outfits for Second Marriages
Knowing where to shop for bridal dresses for second marriages is half the battle when choosing your attire. If you want to go the traditional wedding dress route, The Knot Vendor Marketplace is a great resource to find local bridal salons with consultants who can help you find the perfect dress. If you'd prefer to shop for wedding dresses online, there are plenty of gorgeous off-the-rack dresses on the market to shop right now. Below, we've compiled a few of our favorite retailers where you can start your search for your second wedding dress.
Lulus: Lulus carries an expansive range of dresses for every special event, including a second marriage. Their dresses all fall under $500, with plenty of options under $50 and under $100 as well. "At Lulus, we offer a curated collection of dresses for every type of bride, including romantic maxis, chic jumpsuits and stunning non-white options—so you can walk down the aisle feeling confident, radiant and completely you," Deady Holt says. Whether you're looking for a simple wedding dress or something more elaborate, Lulus has something to fit every bride's style. Use code THEKNOT25 for 25% off (new customers only; select categories; terms apply; US only).
Anthropologie: Anthropologie has a dedicated wedding shop with a beautiful assortment of dresses for your special day. They carry their own BHLDN collection, in addition to top designers such as Jenny Yoo, Watters and Acler, among others. You can shop their beautiful selection of dresses, as well as accessories, both online and in person.
Neiman Marcus: Neiman Marcus has countless amazing special occasion dresses that would be perfect for a second marriage dress. They carry top brands including Shoshanna, Rebecca Vallance and Saloni, to name a few. They have a particularly great selection of wedding dresses for older brides. Since 1907, Neiman Marcus has provided customers with top-tier customer service and a thoughtfully curated product selection.
Sachin & Babi: Sachin & Babi is known for its unique, elegant formal gowns designed for your most special occasions. They share that "Designer evening gowns can often be designed to be purposely too precious, and while we do create some of the most magnificent special occasion gowns there are, our mantra is we want them to be worn, loved, laughed in and danced in."
Nuuly: If you'd rather rent a dress for your second marriage, Nuuly has a wide range of beautiful dresses you can rent for the occasion. Their dresses range in formality, making them perfect for any type of wedding, from a casual courthouse wedding to a more formal event.
Second Marriage Wedding Dresses to Shop Now
While there are endless beautiful dresses out there, "there's no 'right' choice—just what makes you feel confident and celebrated," Deady Holt says. Whether you feel best in a dramatic ball gown or a simple shift dress, you get to make the rules for your wedding day, and your dress should reflect that.
1. Lulus Romance Dreamer White Lace Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress
This dreamy lace gown puts a romantic spin on a classic. Long sleeves frame the flirty off-the-shoulder neckline while allover lace adds a touch of whimsy. This one would be perfect for a vineyard wedding. Use code THEKNOT25 for 25% off (new customers only; select categories; terms apply; US only).
Size range: XXS–3X
2. Jenny by Jenny Yoo Milena Strapless Drop-Waist Mikado Wedding Gown
Jenny Yoo is known for its elegant wedding dresses, and this one is no exception. Crisp mikado fabric takes the shape of an elegant, full ball gown featuring an on-trend drop waist and corset detailing.
Size range: 0–26W
3. Vera Wang Bride x Pronovias Maeva Mermaid Wedding Dress
If you're looking for a satin gown for your second marriage, this one by Vera Wang is our top pick. A V-neckline and leg slit turn up the heat while a dramatic bow closure on the back adds sweetness.
Size range: 0–32
4. Reformation Zenni Dress
This sleek mini dress from Reformation is a surefire winner for your courthouse wedding dress. Paired with a wispy veil and satin heels, this timeless dress is sure to turn heads on your big day.
Size range: 0–12
5. Sachin & Babi Bonnie Gown
This chic one-shoulder gown is the picture of elegance. The dramatic bow adds just enough drama to this otherwise simple gown. It comes in this beautiful ash blue shade and eight other equally beautiful colors, so there's something for everyone.
Size range: 0–22W
6. Birdy Grey Charli Mesh Corset Dress
Charming polka dot mesh makes a statement on this sweet midi dress. The soft bow-tie sleeves add to the delicate vibe of this dress, which is perfect as a second wedding or elopement dress.
Size range: XS–XL
7. Lulus Love All of Me Champagne Satin Maxi Dress
You can't go wrong with a satin slip dress. This one from Lulus is made of silky champagne-hued satin that melts into a figure-skimming silhouette. Pair it with barely there makeup and a tousled updo for an effortlessly chic bridal look. Use code THEKNOT25 for 25% off (new customers only; select categories; terms apply; US only).
Size range: XXS–XL
8. Shona Joy Asteri Sleeveless High-Neck Sequin & Beaded Maxi Dress
Your wedding day is your day to shine, and this dress ensures you'll literally sparkle and shine all night. With all-over sequins and intricate beadwork, this dress is perfect for the bride not afraid to make a fashion statement.
Size range: 0–12
9. Saylor Maryl Open Stitch Sleeveless Maxi Dress
We're swooning over this stunning midi from Saylor. The breezy cotton blend eyelet makes this the perfect pick for a second wedding during summer.
Size range: XS–L
10. Acler Castleford 3D Floral Plunge A-Line Wedding Gown
Fashionista brides: This one's for you. This glamorous midi dress is calling your name if you want to pull out all the stops on your big day. Elegant 3D florals and a full A-line skirt make this dress one to remember.
Size range: 2–12
11. Abercrombie The A&F Giselle Drop-Waist Maxi Dress
If you'd prefer not to wear white for your second wedding, how about blush pink? This satin drop-waist maxi is equal parts glamorous and effortless. If pink isn't your color, it also comes in yellow, light green, navy and berry shades.
Size range: XXS–XXL
12. BHLDN Flamenco-Hem Asymmetrical Midi Dress
Who said your second wedding dress has to be simple? This one from BHLDN features a stunning asymmetrical ruffle hem that channels major flamenco dancer vibes—perfect for twirling on the dance floor!
Size range: XS–XL
13. Lulus Elegant Cutie Ivory Bow Long Sleeve Backless Mini Dress
This mini dress is the definition of business in the front, party in the back. We love the oversized bow detail on the back. It would make a great elopement dress for brides looking for something more casual. Use code THEKNOT25 for 25% off (new customers only; select categories; terms apply; US only).
Size range: XXS–XXL
14. Rickie Freeman for Teri Jon One-Shoulder Jacquard Side-Ruffle Gown
This stylish one-shoulder gown is an especially great pick if you're looking for wedding dresses for older brides. The elegant one-shoulder neckline is universally flattering. Plus, it comes in six beautiful jacquard colors.
Size range: 2–20
15. Hill House Home The Ellie Maxi Nap Dress
The Hill House Home Ellie Nap Dress is a fan favorite for a reason. It blends effortless elegance with a dress so comfortable you can nap in it—hence the name. The classic white color is perfect for anyone looking for wedding outfits for a second marriage.
Size range: XXXS–XXXXL