Can Bridesmaid Dresses Be Worn Again After the Wedding?

Yes, bridesmaid dresses can absolutely be worn again after the wedding with styling adjustments. Pair dresses with denim jackets, casual blazers, or statement jewelry to transform the look.

Shorten floor-length gowns to midi or mini length for more wearable styles. Rewear bridesmaid dresses to other weddings, formal events, date nights, or brunch occasions.

Change accessories like shoes, belts, and jewelry to dress down formal looks. Many versatile bridesmaid dress styles work for cocktail parties, black-tie events, and casual outings.

Ways to Rewear Bridesmaid Dresses

Styling Method	What to Add	Best For	Time to Style
Dress down with denim	Jean jacket, flats	Casual outings, brunch	5 minutes
Shorten length	Tailor to midi/mini	Multiple occasions	1-2 weeks
Add layers	Blazer, cardigan, sweater	Office, semi-formal	5 minutes
Change accessories	Statement jewelry, belt	Date nights, parties	5 minutes
Wear as separates	Tailor into top + skirt	Mix-and-match outfits	2-3 weeks

5 Steps to Rewear Your Bridesmaid Dress

1. Assess the dress style and versatility

Midi-length dresses and dresses in neutral colors are easiest to rewear for multiple occasions. Chiffon, satin, and jersey fabrics work well for dressy and casual styling.

Floor-length gowns in bold colors may need more creative styling or alterations. Simple, clean-lined dresses offer more rewear opportunities than heavily embellished styles.

2. Choose appropriate occasions for rewearing

Match the dress formality to the event type. Floor-length gowns work for black-tie events, formal weddings, and evening galas.

Midi and tea-length dresses suit cocktail parties, dinner dates, and semi-formal occasions. Altered or styled-down versions work for brunches, casual outings, and office wear.

3. Style with casual accessories to dress down

Swap high heels for flats or sandals to instantly dress down formal looks. Slouchy or leather boots are great options, and chunky shoes or slip-on sneakers relax the overall look.

Add a belt, casual jacket, structured blazer, statement jewelry, or even a scarf to transform a dress. You can use multiple items to really help differentiate the look.

4. Consider alterations for better rewear value

Hem floor-length gowns into mini or totally chic two-piece sets to make them more wearable. You can add or remove straps, bring in the waist, and even alter the neckline.

Shortening bridesmaid dresses makes them more casual and opens more opportunities for wear. 

5. Plan wardrobe integration before the wedding

When choosing bridesmaid dresses, consider rewear potential from the start. Select versatile colors like navy, champagne, dusty blue, or black that work for multiple occasions.

Choose classic silhouettes like A-line, wrap, or midi lengths that transition easily. Simple designs without excessive embellishments offer better long-term wardrobe value.

Dress Down Bridesmaid Dresses with Denim

Denim Jackets

Why denim works:

Denim jackets or vests instantly take a look from formal to casual. The structure of the jacket helps dress down the formal look of the dress.

How to style:

• Faded denim gives your look a more chic everyday feel
• Light wash for spring and summer
• Dark wash for fall and winter
• Oversized fit for relaxed vibe
• Fitted cut for structured appearance

Best dress types for denim:

• Chiffon floor-length gowns
• Tulle midi dresses
• Satin slip dresses
• Simple A-line styles

Complete the look:

• White sneakers or canvas shoes
• Crossbody bag instead of clutch
• Minimal jewelry
• Casual hairstyle like ponytail or loose waves

Jean or Leather Jackets

You can easily dress down a lace bridesmaid dress by pairing it with boots and a jean jacket. A leather jacket works too.

Styling with leather jackets:

• Creates edgy, modern look
• Works for evening casual events
• Pair with ankle boots
• Add bold jewelry
• Great for concerts or dinner dates

Best occasions:

• Girls’ night out
• Casual dinner dates
• Outdoor concerts
• Weekend brunch with friends

Layer Bridesmaid Dresses for New Looks

Add Tops Over Dresses

Throw a top over dress skirt for more casual look. Flowy chiffon or tulle dresses look great with crop top or tank top over it.

Layering options:

• White button-up tied at waist
• Fitted tank or cami
• Cropped sweater
• Graphic t-shirt for casual vibe

Why layering works: This is a great way to restyle strapless and other revealing dresses to give it a more modest and relaxed look.

Add Outerwear and Cardigans

For colder weather, layer a flannel or sweater on top of your dress for a completely new outfit. Shorter mini dresses can be paired with blazers or cardigans and be reworn on semi-formal occasions or double as work outfit during office hours.

Outerwear options:

• Structured blazer for office
• Oversized cardigan for casual
• Cropped jacket for modern look
• Long coat for winter elegance
• Denim vest for bohemian style

Office-appropriate styling:

• Blazer with low heels
• Simple stud earrings
• Tote bag instead of clutch
• Neutral belt at waist
• Professional hairstyle

Change Accessories to Transform the Look

Jewelry Transformations

As a general rule of thumb, jewelry that is shiny and glitzy tends to give off a more formal vibe. Extra long earrings or layered necklaces help keep it casual and classy.

Casual jewelry choices:

• Long pendant necklaces
• Layered delicate chains
• Statement earrings in matte finish
• Leather wrap bracelets
• Wood or stone pieces

Formal jewelry choices:

• Diamond or crystal studs
• Pearl necklaces
• Delicate tennis bracelets
• Classic drop earrings
• Metallic cuffs

Belt and Waist Details

Another super simple way to dress down a bridesmaid dress is by cinching the waist with a casual belt.

Belt styling options:

• Leather belt for casual look
• Braided belt for bohemian style
• Wide belt to define waist
• Chain belt for modern edge
• Fabric sash for romantic touch

Why belts work:

• Define waistline naturally
• Change silhouette of dress
• Add visual interest
• Create new proportions
• Personalize the look

Shoe Transformations

A choice of shoes can set the tone for the overall feel of any outfit. Swap high heels for flats or sandals to dress down bridesmaid dress.

Shoe options by occasion:

Casual styling:

• White sneakers
• Flat sandals
• Canvas slip-ons
• Espadrilles
• Ankle boots

Semi-formal styling:

• Block heel sandals
• Wedges
• Loafers
• Mules
• Kitten heels

Formal styling:

• Strappy heels
• Pointed-toe pumps
• Metallic sandals
• Satin heels
• Embellished flats

Tailor Bridesmaid Dresses for Better Rewear Value

Shorten to Midi or Mini Length

If the bride insisted on having her maids buy expensive dresses, hiring a tailor to shorten your dress could be well worth the money. Shortening a bridesmaid dress will make it more casual, which opens more opportunities for you to wear it.

Benefits of shortening:

• More versatile for multiple occasions
• Easier to style casually
• Works for day and evening events
• Shows off shoes beautifully
• More comfortable for movement

Best lengths:

• Knee-length for conservative styling
• Midi (below knee) for versatility
• Mini (above knee) for casual events

Create Separates from One Dress

If you’re willing to take the risk, consider having a tailor make your dress into separates for a bold look. This will give you a formal top and bottom that can be easily mixed and matched with other separates.

Separate options:

• Crop top + maxi skirt
• Blouse + midi skirt
• Bodice + full skirt
• Tank + A-line skirt

Mix-and-match benefits:

• Two pieces instead of one dress
• Wear separately with other items
• More outfit combinations
• Better value for money
• Modern, fashion-forward look

Other Useful Alterations

Neckline changes:

• Add sleeves to strapless
• Remove sleeves for modern look
• Change V-neck to scoop
• Lower or raise neckline

Fit adjustments:

• Take in sides for better fit
• Add darts for shape
• Remove boning for comfort
• Add stretch panels

Color changes:

• Dye to different color
• Add ombré effect
• Lighten or darken shade

Occasions to Rewear Bridesmaid Dresses

Wear to Other Weddings as Guest

Believe it or not, you actually can wear your bridesmaid dress again as a wedding guest to a different affair. The biggest cause for concern is showing up and matching the bridal party.

Wedding guest guidelines:

• Avoid wearing ivory bridesmaid dress to another wedding as it’s too close to bridal color
• Ask couple about bridal party colors
• Choose bright or unique colors if bridal party wears neutrals
• Neutral dresses work if bridal party wears colors
• Avoid exact same shade as new bridal party

Best bridesmaid dress colors for rewearing:

• Dusty blue (versatile, popular)
• Sage green (works multiple seasons)
• Burgundy (rich, formal)
• Navy (classic, elegant)
• Blush (soft, romantic)

Black-Tie and Formal Events

If you don’t have an evening gown for formal events, why not make your full-length bridesmaid gown be your go-to? Many bridesmaid dresses, especially long bridesmaid dresses, fit right in at black-tie events.

Formal event styling:

• Keep floor-length as is
• Add statement jewelry
• Wear elegant heels
• Carry clutch instead of bag
• Style hair in formal updo
• Bold makeup for drama

Appropriate formal occasions:

• Galas and charity events
• Opera or theater performances
• Award ceremonies
• Company formal dinners
• Holiday parties
• Anniversary celebrations

Date Nights and Romantic Dinners

After the wedding, rewear it with heels to cocktail parties or dinner parties that require a sophisticated look. Midi dresses are date night perfection.

Date night styling:

• Pair with strappy sandals
• Add red lip for glamour
• Wear tousled waves
• Carry small clutch
• Statement earrings
• Delicate jewelry

Best dress styles for dates:

• Tea-length with high slit
• Midi with interesting neckline
• Slip dresses in satin
• Wrap styles in soft colors

Brunch and Daytime Events

Wearing your bridesmaid dress again to brunch is a fantastic and out-of-the-box way to give it a new lease on life. A perfect dress for brunch is a style crafted in light material, like chiffon.

Brunch styling:

• Throw denim or leather jacket, flat sandals, and go
• Casual hair in ponytail or bun
• Minimal makeup
• Crossbody bag
• Sunglasses
• Light jewelry

Daytime occasions:

• Weekend brunch with friends
• Baby or bridal showers
• Garden parties
• Outdoor concerts
• Shopping outings
• Casual lunches

Cocktail Parties and Girls’ Night

After the special day, this dress is perfect for a 5-star date night. Or, pair it with a blazer to give a stylish presentation in the office or ace your next job interview.

Cocktail party styling:

• Statement jewelry
• Bold heels
• Sleek hairstyle
• Evening clutch
• Dramatic makeup
• Confidence and attitude

Perfect for:

• Girls’ night out dancing
• Cocktail receptions
• Holiday parties
• Milestone birthday celebrations
• Networking events

Most Versatile Bridesmaid Dress Styles for Rewearing

Midi and Tea-Length Dresses

Why they’re versatile:

• Appropriate for day and evening
• Easy to dress up or down
• Show off shoes beautifully
• Comfortable for movement
• Work for multiple seasons

Styling range:

• Casual with sneakers and denim
• Semi-formal with heels and blazer
• Formal with statement jewelry
• Office-appropriate with cardigan

A-Line Silhouettes

Why they’re versatile:

• Flattering on all body types
• Classic, timeless style
• Easy to accessorize
• Works for formal and casual
• Multiple color options look good

Rewear occasions:

• Wedding guest attire
• Formal work events
• Holiday parties
• Date nights
• Cocktail receptions

Wrap Dresses

Why they’re versatile:

• Adjustable fit stays comfortable
• Defined waist flatters figure
• V-neckline elongates
• Works for multiple body changes
• Can be dressed up or down easily

Styling options:

• Office with blazer and pumps
• Casual with sandals and denim
• Evening with heels and jewelry
• Brunch with flats and sunglasses

Solid Neutral Colors

Most rewearable colors:

• Navy (works year-round)
• Champagne (elegant, versatile)
• Black (classic formal)
• Dusty blue (soft, modern)
• Sage green (natural, fresh)
• Burgundy (rich, seasonal)

Why neutrals work:

• Easy to accessorize
• Don’t scream “bridesmaid”
• Work for multiple occasions
• Complement various skin tones
• Mix with existing wardrobe

What to Do If You Can’t Rewear the Dress

Sell the Dress

Resale platforms help recoup costs from expensive bridesmaid dresses. List dresses on specialized sites for quick sales.

Where to sell:

• Poshmark
• eBay
• Stillwhite
• PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com
• Facebook Marketplace
• Local consignment shops

Selling tips:

• Clean and steam before photos
• Take photos in good lighting
• Provide accurate measurements
• Include brand and color name
• Price competitively
• Ship quickly after sale

Donate the Dress

Give dresses new life by donating to organizations that help others. Many charities accept gently worn formal dresses.

Donation options:

• Brides Across America (military brides)
• Local thrift stores
• Women’s shelters
• Dress for Success
• High school prom programs
• Theater costume departments

Lend to Friends

Check with friends who might need formal wear. During wedding season, friends appreciate borrowing dresses they don’t need to purchase.

Lending benefits:

• Dress gets used instead of stored
• Help friends save money
• Borrow from friends in return
• Build dress-sharing network
• Sustainable fashion choice

Styling Timeline and Cost Guide

Styling Method	Time Required	Difficulty
Add accessories	5 minutes	Easy
Layer with jacket	5 minutes	Easy
Change shoes	2 minutes	Easy
Add belt	2 minutes	Easy
Hem to midi	1-2 weeks	Medium
Create separates	2-3 weeks	Hard
Dye new color	1 week	Medium

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you really wear a bridesmaid dress again?

Absolutely! Rewearing a bridesmaid dress is a great way to maximize its use and enjoy the beautiful garment beyond the wedding day. With a few styling adjustments, bridesmaid dresses can be appropriate for a variety of events.

The key is choosing appropriate occasions and styling the dress differently with accessories, shoes, and layers. Many bridesmaid dresses work perfectly for formal events, other weddings, date nights, and cocktail parties.

How do I make a bridesmaid dress less formal?

To make a bridesmaid dress less formal, try pairing it with casual accessories like flats or sneakers, and adding more relaxed outerwear like a denim or leather jacket.

Swap high heels for flats or sandals, slouchy or leather boots, chunky shoes or slip-on sneakers to relax your overall look. Add casual jewelry and change your hairstyle to something more relaxed.

Is it worth altering a bridesmaid dress?

If the bride insisted on having her maids buy expensive dresses, hiring a tailor to shorten your dress could be well worth the money. Shortening floor-length gowns to midi or mini opens more rewear opportunities and makes dresses more versatile for everyday occasions. Consider alteration costs against the original dress price.

Can I wear my bridesmaid dress to another wedding?

Yes, you can wear bridesmaid dresses to other weddings as a guest. Just remember to keep wedding guest color etiquette in mind. Wearing your ivory bridesmaid dress at another wedding isn’t going to win you any favors.

Avoid matching the new bridal party colors. If uncertain, ask the couple about their bridal party color scheme before wearing your bridesmaid dress.

What are the most versatile bridesmaid dress colors to rewear?

Navy, champagne, dusty blue, sage green, and black are the most versatile bridesmaid dress colors for rewearing. These neutrals work for multiple occasions and seasons.

Avoid very trendy colors or shades that scream “bridesmaid.” Classic neutrals blend into your existing wardrobe and work for formal events, weddings, parties, and casual outings with proper styling.

What should I do with a bridesmaid dress I’ll never wear?

There are numerous ways to reuse a bridesmaid dress, including selling it, donating it, upcycling it into a different garment, or dyeing it a new color.

Sell on resale platforms like Poshmark or Stillwhite to recoup costs. Donate to charities like Brides Across America or local thrift stores. Lend to friends who need formal wear for upcoming events.