Are outfit /style changes throughout your big day necessary?
There are many activities and locations throughout a wedding day, depending on the couple and their family, they could have some traditions that require appropriate attire for the activity. To many couples, it's a once in a lifetime event that all the attention will be on them, and having cameras around at all times taking photos of their every move. It's a rare moment the couple gets to dress up together, relax and party the whole day with their friends and family. Outfit / Style changes may not be necessary but they definitely do have the ability to make each moment memorable, especially when looking back at photos and remembering which outfit was worn for which significant moment.
Here are some common moments that couples tend to have outfit / style changes during their big day!
1) Getting Ready
Matching robes or pajamas are a popular choice for prepping or enjoying some fun moments with your bridal party as you get ready together. This option becomes even more appealing when considering how it creates delightful photo opportunities, particularly if your photographer will be capturing shots of these pre-wedding festivities. These cozy attires not only adds a touch of unity but also sets the stage for candid and heartwarming moments - allowing every laugh, embrace, and shared excitement to be captured and cherished forever.
2) First Look
The "first look" moment holds special significance, typically reserved for couples following the traditional path of gatecrashing and the ceremonial fetching of the bride. In the absence of a designated outfit for this occasion, it's customary for this attire to be one of the gowns or suits chosen for other segments of the day's festivities. Additionally, this ensemble can seamlessly transition to your tea ceremony, if your family traditions does not require you to wear a Kua or cheongsam.
3) KUA/Cheongsam
The Kua and cheongsam stand as timeless symbols of tradition and elegance, each with its own significance in the celebration. The Kua, a traditional Chinese bridal attire, is worn when serving tea to the elders in the family and asking for their blessing for the marriage. Meanwhile, the cheongsam, know for its form-fitting silhouette and exquisite craftsmanship, graces other moments of the wedding day, such as the banquet or reception, offering a nod to cultural heritage. kua and cheongsam can both be worn during the tea ceremony, however, they look very different. Kua is an outfit set that includes a two-piece jacket plus a skirt, it is usually red and embroidered in gold thread. Cheongsam also known as qipao is a figure-fitting dress with a standing collar, sometimes with a slit skirt.
The Kua/Cheongsam is a traditional outfit worn during the tea ceremony but depending on the couple's family, it may not be necessary.
4) Solemnization
Your solemnization outfit is like your wedding day starter attire as it's usually the first formal outfit you'll wear. That said, it will probably also be the one you'll cherish most since you said your "I dos" in it! Some couples even rewear this outfit, using it for photoshoots or the tea ceremony to save some costs and time. If you're not doing the solemnization on your big day, feel free to skip this step altogether!
5) 1st March-in
Your grand entrance, marked by your first official appearance in front of all your loved ones, the spotlight's on you, and all eyes are waiting to catch a glimpse of your stunning gown. If you've already had your solemnization before this main event, you might opt to rewear the same attire, especially considering that solemnizations typically involve only close family members. This way, you save some money while still making a breathtaking statement as you step into the room.
6) 2nd March-in / Farewell / After party
For the second march-in, couples often go for a complete style transformation to keep guests equally captivated for their encore appearance. This attire is typically reserved for photo sessions and farewells at the end of the celebration, where couples mingle with guests for final snapshots, goodbyes, and dancing. Some couples choose to reprise their KUA/cheongsam from the tea ceremony for this segment. Otherwise, prioritizing comfort, some couples switch into a more comfortable outfit for unrestricted movement on the dance floor. In some cases, couples may even incorporate a third march-in, using this opportunity for additional photos and bidding farewell to loved ones.
There is no such thing as 'too many' outfit / style changes but keep in mind the time
Some guests may find multiple outfit / style changes unnecessary, but our best advice? Just do what makes you and your partner happy, it is your big day after all! However, if you are opting for multiple changes, do keep in mind that these changes can be time-consuming, varying on the complexity of your attires. If you are having changes, try to plan some entertainment or activity that can keep your guests entertained while you change.
Here at Luna Bianca, we are committed to ensuring you have a stress-free wedding day, planning your wedding day in advance and hashing out the tiny details like entertainment or activity to give the bride and groom time to change without the couple feeling rushed and stressed to quickly get back to their guests.
Check out our Wedding Planning & Styling page!