Now, to begin: This isn’t the “less important dress.” The rehearsal dinner dress has its own kind of importance, and it’s no less vital to a well-styled wedding weekend than the wedding dress itself. You (and your children) may be referring back to this event in photos from here until kingdom come so you want to be just as delighted by your rehearsal dinner look as you are for what follows the next day.

When selecting your rehearsal dinner dress, don’t go with something that’s too similar in style and silhouette to your actual wedding dress.  Also, you may want to tailor (no pun intended) your dress to your venue, so maybe go with something that isn’t covered in sequins if it’s a casual vibe. In general, you want to find a rehearsal dinner dress that is comfortable (remember, there will be lots of standing and hugging) and makes you feel amazing.  I’ve seen too many brides realize at their rehearsal dinner (or wedding) that they can’t actually sit down comfortably or raise their arms comfortably. You don’t want to be distracted in these special moments by dress discomfort, so find a killer dress, and then triple check that you can, you know, move and breathe and stuff.

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You should feel like you’ve styled the very best version of yourself, and it’s hard to feel anything other than your best in the Bella embellished tulle midi dress by Needle & Thread. I think this dress is why the internet invented the zoom feature. What looks like lace is actually sequin embellished tulle, and I love the delicate effect tulle offers a dress—no other fabric can do that. This one’s got tulle from head to toe, ending in an absolutely breathtaking overall effect. The dress is fitted at the bust and waist, it’s slightly loose at the hip, and falls to mid-length which is perfect for pairing with a simple, elegant pump or sandal. You really need little more than an elegant earring to finish off the complete look, but a delicate crystal headband isn’t going to hurt…

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When planned well, your rehearsal dinner dress should excite you just as much as your wedding dress. It should be a timeless style moment you’ll never forget, and it’s a safe bet that if it’s covered in sequined tulle, you never will. 

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