Nine ideas for your wedding afterparty dress - The Times

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Between the week-long itineraries and the dedicated content creators, modern weddings may have officially gone mad. But a post-ceremony outfit change? I’d argue that’s just common sense. Practical, even. After all, you can’t dodge a flailing relative on a crowded dancefloor while dragging six feet of duchesse satin, let alone comfortably enjoy a canapé in a tight corset.

Finding “the one” comes with all sorts of traditions, rules and etiquette. Finding “the second one”, however, is where the real fun begins. For a night of partying, ditch the ceremonial bulk and swap the heavy trains for plunging backs, playful beading, and fabulously flamboyant feathers. 

Taller Marmo’s one-shoulder gown will keep you happily entertained all evening long with a feather trim that adds a satisfying swish to your shimmy. Made from a fluid, lightweight crepe, the free-flowing silhouette lets you comfortably let loose with your nearest and dearest. £1,805, Taller Mamo at Mytheresa

Consider this the minimalist’s gateway into feathers. Parisian brand Loulou de Saison keeps the plumage to a single drop-waist hem, delivering a hint of flamboyance that won’t leave you feeling smothered. £630, Loulou de Saison at Mytheresa

If you’re looking to break from convention — or white simply isn’t your colour — Vivienne Westwood’s deep crimson gown offers a striking alternative. The Camille dress falls to a dramatic silhouette with an off-the-shoulder neckline, corseted boning, draped detailing at the hips and a subtle train.£4,510, Vivienne Westwood

What better way to toast your new marriage than in head-to-toe crystals? Jenny Packham’s high-neck, floor-sweeping gown feels straight out of a 1920s soirée, making it the perfect dress to wear while pouring the champagne tower.£4,975, Jenny Packham at Mytheresa

Beads, chains, crystals and pearls: it doesn’t get much more extravagant than a Clio Peppiatt dress. Hand-embroidered using vintage beading techniques passed down from her grandmother, it serves as a glamorous loophole for your “something old and something borrowed”.£1,550, Clio Peppiatt at Net-a-Porter

If you’re reluctant to part with your veil, Danielle Frankel’s wool-blend shift dress has a glossy satin neck scarf that falls to a similarly dramatic train without any of the floor-dragging hassle.£2,880, Danielle Frankel at Mytheresa

Forget the need for a pashmina or shawl, Solace London’s Bessette dress has a voluminous cape-like layer to keep you warm. And when the dancefloor calls, simply shrug it off to reveal a timeless A-line mini underneath. £590, Solace London at Mytheresa

For a winter wedding, consider a dress with long sleeves. This satin mini keeps things suitably sophisticated from the front, reserving the fun for a plunging, low-slung back and dramatic satin bow. £1,115, The New Arrivals Ilkyaz Ozel at Mytheresa

Made from a liquid satin, Gucci’s slip dress swaps uncomfortable corsetry for a sleek, Nineties-inspired silhouette. The crystal-embellished horsebit straps are an accessory in themselves but will also work with a tennis necklace or silver clutch. £2,850, Gucci at Mytheresa

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