Updated
Change after the last moment you want photographed in your ceremony look and early enough to return before the first moment you want in your reception dress. For many weddings, that means after portraits, after the entrance or first dance, after dinner, or just before open dancing.
What each change point gives you
Changing after portraits keeps the ceremony outfit in the formal photographs and gives the second look an early reveal. It also means the reception entrance, first dance and most guest photographs can feature look two.
Waiting until after the entrance or first dance keeps those traditional moments with the ceremony gown. A change after dinner gives that first outfit most of the evening, while changing before the dance floor opens puts the reception dress into the liveliest photographs. There is no universally correct moment; choose which images and memories belong to each look.
Time the part nobody sees
Write down when the change starts and when you will be back. Include the walk to the room, bathroom time, fastenings, shoes and any hair or jewellery adjustment. Share both times with the photographer and coordinator so nobody calls you for a speech or photograph while you are away.
Rehearse in the exact outfit with the person helping you. Room 22 corsets arrive pre-laced, and our corset lacing guide shows the bunny-ears method. If the rehearsal takes longer than the gap in your schedule, either move the change or simplify it. Our guide to a second bridal look without a full outfit change covers scarves, detachable sleeves and keeping one main piece in place.
On the wedding day, place the complete second look in the changing room before guests arrive, including shoes and every detachable piece.