6 Gorgeous Wedding Dresses for Second-Time Brides (PHOTOS)

wedding dress
wedding dress

Even though the season is halfway over, summer nuptials are still in full swing -- which is great news if you love cake and the occasional toss of a bouquet. And in the heat, I always give summer brides credit -- it's no easy task trumping down the aisle in those big, bustly, and heavy wedding gowns.

The dress is, after all, why we go to a wedding. Picking the right one is a HUGE deal. And it's just as important for brides who walk down the aisle for a second or third time.

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You don't want something too frumpy, too frilly, or too reminiscent of your first gown. Right? Right. And you don't want to look like an overstuffed cream puff, either. Your dress should capture your new stage of happiness. So in the spirit of the season, check out six of our favorite fashionable and feminine wedding gowns that make any try at happy ever after a pretty one.

Cap Sleeves
Cap Sleeves

Image via J.Crew

Cap Sleeves

Timeless and totally elegant, this dress is perfect for another romp in the wedded realm. You can dress it up with a long veil and loose curls or you can add a touch of modern style with a birdcage veil and a red lip.

Simple & Sequined
Simple & Sequined

Image via David's Bridal

Simple & Sequined

The sequins add sparkle and pizazz but they don't overdo it. As opposed to some of the more conservative looks that brides sport when they are married for a second time, this dress has the perfect pinch of sophistication and sass.

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Beaded Lace
Beaded Lace

Image via David's Bridal

Beaded Lace

The delicate beading and the lace overlay make this dress look regal and reaaaallly beautiful. Satin cinching at your natural waist accentuates your feminine shape and elongates your figure.

One-Shoulder
One-Shoulder

Image via David's Bridal

One-Shoulder

Brides have started down the aisle in dresses far differing the norm: light pinks and blues and dresses hemmed short, but the best example of a modern bride has got to be the one-shouldered style. It shows class and the detailing is always to die for.

Sleeves
Sleeves

Image via J.Crew

Sleeves

Sleeves are so sexy. But I think women who are getting married for the second time have earned the right to slip into some sleeved gowns -- they exude femininity, grace, and maturity. And it takes a special kind of woman to wear it right.

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Vintage Touches
Vintage Touches

Image via J.Crew

Vintage Touches

Adding sheer shoulders to this otherwise strapless gown amps up the style in the easiest way. Satin belts add a little shine and by opting for a cut that is form fitting, it makes the dress look simple and elegant.

Would you wear something without all the bells & whistles to walk down the aisle a second time?

Top image via PeterJBellis/Flickr

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Written by Kylie McConville for CafeMom's blog, The Stir.

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