Easy Swaps to Take Your Wedding Look from Ceremony to Reception

You spend months, sometimes even years putting together your wedding look. So to some it may seem a little wild to think about switching it up mid wedding. But hear me out. The dress is an obvious swap, especially if you went full ball gown for the ceremony and early reception. But if you don’t want to take off that gown that you fell in love with, there are some other ways to refresh your look that will make a big visual impact, and they’re also just practical. Lets not sleep on the fact that a large chunk of wedding photos come from the reception. You don’t want to lose any wedding day style when the ceremony is over. Keep reading for some simple style swaps that can transform your look before you hit the dance floor.

The Shoes

Let’s be real, even the most comfortable heels are only so comfortable after 8 hours. I truly envy those that can rock heels all day, but sadly I am not one of those people. With that said, switching to a more dance friendly shoe doesn’t mean sacrificing on style. There are so many cute flat options that look great and still let you mingle with guests and kill it on the dance floor, without killing your feet. And it doesn’t have to be a flat. Even going from a stiletto to a block heel or a platform for some extra sturdiness can make a big difference when you’ll be on your feet for hours. If you are switching to a shorter dress the shoes will become a more prominent accessory. So pick a pair that compliments your dress and adds to the overall look. Comfort and style can definitely coexist, and you’ll have happy feet when it’s time to hit the dance floor.

The Veil

Long sweeping veils are fun and dramatic…but definitely a tripping hazard on the dance floor. We don’t want that kind of excitement for the reception. The veil is such an iconic part to the overall wedding look you don’t have to lose those special touches from the reception. If you’re wearing a long veil for the ceremony, consider switching to a short and fun flyaway veil for the reception. All that movement while you’re dancing will make for awesome photos. If you would rather lose the veil altogether, try adding a beautiful hair comb, a statement bow, or a beautiful headband. Even just a small detail will keep you feeling special and bridal all night long.

Jewelry

Switching up your jewelry may not be top of mind when it comes to changing it up from ceremony to reception, but it’s definitely worth considering. Some wedding gowns call for the perfect statement earring, and I fully support it. But a good statement earring often comes with some heft. All that movement on the dance floor might not be the most comfortable for your ears or the best for your earrings. As mentioned in our emergency kit blog, having a second pair of earrings ready to go is a no brainer. Think about a delicate drop or a bold and sturdy stud. You will look amazing, feel lighter as you dance the night away. Trust me, your ears will thank you.

Hair

Changing up your hairstyle is one of the most noticeable ways to change the vibe of your wedding day style. Going from a sleek updo to half up waves is a totally different feeling, it’s such a great way to transition from ceremony to party. If this is something you think you might want to do, be sure to plan ahead. Talk it over with your hairstylist during your trial and ask if they can show you a version of the style that’s easy to switch on your own, or with a little help. Bring a friend or bridesmaid to observe who is willing to help you on the day of. With some prep you’ll have a fresh hairstyle for the reception.

Makeup

It’s the simple details that have a big impact. If you went for a more soft bridal look for the ceremony, the reception might be the right time to pull out a bold lip. The reception is time for fun, and nothing says fun like a bold lip. It’s a low effort way to update your look and vibe for the party. And for those that don’t have a glam squad standing by throughout the day, a good lip is easy to do by yourself or with the help of a skilled bridesmaid.

The ceremony and reception can often have two very different vibes. And It’s possible to reflect that in with your bridal look without doing a complete outfit change. With just a few intentional swaps you can transform your style to match the mood, moving effortlessly from the walk down the aisle to the party, and even the after party. 

Explore the little details that make a big impact, browse our jewelry and head pieces to find your perfect ceremony to reception style.