Get Two Looks in One with Wedding Dresses by Claire Pettibone

When it comes to planning a wedding, brides not only have to choose what wedding theme or style to go with, but they also must select a wedding dress that complements the formality and look of the big day. With so many gorgeous options to choose from, brides can often have trouble narrowing down a certain style or silhouette they love on Pinterest while they're browsing online, which can also lead to difficulties finding "the one" at a bridal salon.

Whether you're lucky enough to know what you're looking for or you're still waiting to find your dream bridal look, you've likely found bridal designer Claire Pettibone's gorgeous gowns on your search for the perfect wedding dress. Ideal for brides looking for an ethereal, romantic, and vintage-inspired wedding dress, Claire Pettibone's collections embody effortless style and luxurious detailing for brides who are stylish and sweet, strong and independent, and everything in between.

Every Claire Pettibone wedding dress is imagined, sketched, and designed by Claire herself, and each dress is hand-crafted in The Castle – the designer's gorgeous Los Angeles flagship atelier that looks as if it's straight out of a fairy tale. While many brides may initially feel as though the gown designs are set in stone, Claire Pettibone can customize the styles to fit every bride's vision. Whether you're hoping to have two bridal looks in one – a more modest or formal look for the ceremony and a more fun and sexy look for the reception – or you're on the fence between having a strapless gown or one with sleeves, it's all possible with Claire Pettibone's bridal collection.

Take a look at some of our favorite Claire Pettibone wedding dresses, below, and learn how each can be customized to fit your desired wedding style!

"Bordeaux" by Claire Pettibone

For the bride who dreams of a romantic, strapless bridal look with a little bohemian flare, the Bordeaux gown by Claire Pettibone is just the dress. This beautifully flattering, soft mermaid silhouette made of Guipure lace is a modern and fresh take on the original strapless gown. With delicate, nature-inspired off-the-shoulder sleeves that add a touch of organic whimsy, this style is ideal for the bride who appreciates the natural world around her.

Want two bridal looks in one? Claire Pettibone's team can customize these elegant off-the-shoulder sleeves to be detachable. Keep them on for the ceremony, and take them off for the reception to dance the night away!

"Odessa" by Claire Pettibone

The Odessa gown – a favorite among Claire Pettibone brides – is sweet, sexy, and a little sheer as well! This bridal gown was originally designed strapless, but Claire has customized the wedding gown with delicate floral appliqué straps for those brides who want to continue the beauty up the collarbone and trickle down the back to create an entirely different look.

Besides looking elegant, straps also allow for more personalization! Brides can add an epic couture cape to attach to the back for a unique look. We love the Gypsy Moon Cape, shown below, for a romantic addition. The possibilities for customization are endless at Claire Pettibone, so don't be afraid to ask!

"Victoriana" by Claire Pettibone

Every bride is different, just as every wedding is different. For those brides who may want more coverage during their wedding ceremony, the strapless Victoriana gown can be paired with the Vicky capelet! Made of one-of-a-kind French embroidery layered over soft silk charmeuse, the Victoriana gown is a vintage delight, and the matching capelet is the perfect accessory to truly create two unique looks for your wedding.

Wear the cape for the ceremony and remove it for the reception, or simply keep it on all night long for an incredibly romantic and timeless look!

"Thalia" by Claire Pettibone

Who says you have to choose between a strapless look and a full-sleeve look for your wedding day? The Thalia gown and the Botticelli bolero are the perfect pairing for the bride who wants the best of both worlds. This brand new Claire Pettibone gown and bolero from The Three Graces Collection longs for the bride who wants something dramatic and vintage inspired, all wrapped in one!

Looking for another customization for this gorgeous gown? You can choose any color silk ribbon for the waist to match your wedding color palette, and this style comes in an ivory version too!

We don't see the trend of having two or multiple wedding dresses going anywhere, so if you love the idea but don't want to actually buy two or more wedding dresses, a two-in-one look will be perfect for you! Customization options are often available from bridal designers – as is the case at the Claire Pettibone Design Atelier – but if they're not, you can voice your concerns and goals for the gown at your wedding dress alterations appointment. 

Your wedding day will be incredibly special, and while your bridal gown is likely the most expensive dress you may ever own, it's important to feel absolutely gorgeous on the most wonderful day of your life. Do what's best for you, and you'll look absolutely radiant no matter what direction you choose – after all, you're the bride and everyone (especially your future spouse) will be waiting to see you walk down the aisle in a gown you absolutely love. Happy shopping!

Opening photo by Sean Thomas Photography; Bridal Gown by Claire Pettibone; Beauty by Beauty Bespoken; Jewelry by All About Romance; Shoes by Bella Belle; Styling by Charming Peony Studio; Venue: Sunstone Winery