10 fun dresses to change into at your wedding reception

From strappy minis to simple slips, here are our favourite frocks for the party portion of the evening

A wedding reception dress plays many roles on a wedding day, once the vows have been said and the ceremony is over. Not only is it an extra chance for you to express your bridal style but it offers you the opportunity to slip into something party-ready and comfortable too.

In recent years, having a second outfit has become commonplace alongside other looks for a wedding weekend, from rehearsal dinner dresses to wedding brunch looks, so it’s no time to hold back.

If you’ve gone traditional for the actual wedding dress, you might be after something more trend-led for the evening look. Perhaps there’s no doubt of you coming off the dance floor so you want something short to really let loose in.

When selecting your perfect reception dress, try to think long-term. This is an outfit you can certainly get more wear out of after the celebrations have finished as it typically isn’t so 'wedding-y' as the main dress. Take time to think about the reception itself too – is it a city wedding with just a smart dinner planned where something modern and minimalist would look best or are you having an all-out party where sequins and embellishments are a necessity?

From structured minis to crystal-adorned designs and silky slips, the good news is there is no shortage of amazing after-party wedding dresses to shop now for 2023. Below we’ve rounded up some of our favourite styles - all that’s left to do is pick the bridal shoes and accessories to complete your reception look.

A firm fixture on the red carpet, the London designer is a favorite of editors and actors alike for his sophisticated sex appeal and precisely-tailored, taut party pieces. With a crystal-tipped bra top, this maxi has a straight-cut silhouette made from white cady covered in clear sequins that sparkle as you enter a room. It needs no further embellishments — just a pair of strappy pumps.

Throw on a party piece by Danish It girls Thora Valdimars and Jeanette Madsen, and you’re guaranteed to feel your oats—such is the power of their cool-girl glamour. Spring, which delivers ‘90s slink and low-slung fits in club-ready prints, textured and hues, is a case in point.

In his signature neutrals that spotlight construction, the Australian couturier continues to make a commanding case for architectural eveningwear and über-sharp tailoring. This slim mini dress has a square neckline with a flared a-line skirt. Wear yours with heels and a metallic clutch for a chic cocktail look.

A coastal spirit takes hold of the latest collection, with beach-ready spins on the label’s signature party-ready seduction. On cue, find a multitude of dresses that capture a ‘70s psychedelia. The 'Tali' has a shirting silhouette made from a patchwork of lace. Add the rope belt to define your frame or swap it out for a wider leather option.

Unabashedly feminine and sexy in equal measure, the Polish designer’s party pieces sit in a league of their own—and continue to evolve in her new collection. Highlights include new off-shoulder necklines and the return of her rose appliqués, now on separates, rendered in crochet and denim. This gown has a strapless, floor-length silhouette and ruching throughout its bodice, accentuating the form. It features 3-D rose appliqués at the hip where the fabric parts into a high-cut slit detail. Style with silver jewels and slingback pumps for an elegant evening look.

L.A.-based Jasmin Larian Hekmat has cornered the market for fashion-forward pieces inflected with the ease of California. Informed by her coastal lifestyle, she mixes playful details in flirty dresses and artful sets you’ll return to year after year. The 'Shannon' mini dress takes on a life of its own with wispy ostrich feathers that flutter in the air as you move. The shorter length provides plenty of opportunity to show off your stems. Wear to weddings, holidays and anything that calls for a celebration.

For Pre-Fall, the British environmentalist goes back to her roots, honoring Mother Nature to clever, inventive, and endlessly chic effect. Find luxe satin slips edged seductively in lace, as well as a moto-style jacket in butter-soft Alter Mat vegan, recyclable fur-free furs, feminine silks boasting a python print, and a treebark motif. This timelessly glamorous, floor-skimming gown has a relaxed, column silhouette and a single-shoulder neckline that's embellished with crystal details. Style with a jeweled clutch and stappy pumps for your next event.

Nicky Zimmermann conjures an empowering elegance this season that marries her signature femininity with a frothy, flourishing romance.

Made of a linen and silk blend, this relaxed mini dress features sequin embroidered frill that cascades into a waterfall hemline. As seen on the SS'23 runway, pair with white slingbacks and minimal jewelry.

The 'Raie' mini dress has a semi-sheer, eyelet lace body with 3D floral appliqué details, constructed into a boxy, shift silhouette. Style with sandals and woven accessories for an effortlessly chic day look.