For those who can’t decide between a princess ball gown or a sexy mini, they wear both. That’s right—the growing trend is to wear two dresses: a Cinderella-inspired gown for the ceremony and then a fun, flirty (think comfortable) cocktail dress for the reception. This gives brides that perfect mix of style and comfort.

Judy Fletcher, owner of the Wedding Store at Liz Clinton’s in Andover (973-786-5330; myweddingatlizclintons.com), agrees that most brides still want the traditional white wedding gown, but she has had a couple of customers wanting the option of wearing two dresses. “We had a bride that wanted to do the ‘Dirty Dancing’ routine,” she says, “so she changed into a different dress for that. I think the decision to wear two dresses is not for everyone—it depends on the personality of the bride.”

Dina Dolan, salon manager at Priscilla of Boston in Short Hills (973-376-2345; priscillaofboston.com), has seen her fair share of brides who desire the best of both worlds for their wedding dress. “Typically, the bride who is interested in purchasing two dresses will choose a long wedding gown with a train to wear to the ceremony, and then select a short gown to change into halfway through the reception, or for an after-party following the reception,” she says.

But don’t be fooled—these shorter dresses can be very elegant. “The considerations for wearing a second dress are both practical and stylish,” she adds. “While allowing more comfort and movement for dancing, the necklines can be more revealing, with a fit that highlights the body. For the bride who wants to be chic and modern, or feminine and flirty, a second dress captures all of these elements.”

New Jersey bride Samantha Mitchel, who got married last May to Charles Boyle at the Chart House in Weehawken, agrees. “I wanted to have the best of worlds—a dress to get married in, and a dress to party in. A shorter dress is more comfortable and fun.” And she brings up an added bonus: “Seeing my husband’s reaction to me in not one but two white dresses was enjoyable as well. After the wedding we all went to an after-party and I was very happy to be in a shorter, less ‘wedding’ dress but still look like the bride,” she says. And what was the reaction of her guests? “People loved it!” she says. “Original and fun.”