When Selena Gomez walked down the aisle for her wedding to Benny Blanco, she made waves, not just for tying the knot, but for the bold strategic move of wearing three different wedding dresses. While on The Jennifer Hudson Show on October 21, the 33-year-old star explained exactly why.
“I didn’t want anyone to get photos of my wedding unless it was from me. I keep my life as private as I can," she said. So, why three dresses? Because each look played a specific role. According to the star, the first gown was for the “first look,” a moment just for the couple before the ceremony.
Gomez said that the dress was initially shown online first so she could share her image on her terms. The second gown was the one she wore for the ceremony itself.
The third look came later, during the reception, when the vibe shifted to celebration and party mode. By dividing up her looks, Gomez cleverly ensured that her wedding images were curated and released by her, not by drones, paparazzi, or accidental leaks.
Privacy, Control & Celebrity in the Digital Age
For someone who grew up in the public eye and now runs companies, acts, sings, and influences, Gomez’s move feels like a business-savvy one. Gomez’s multi-dress tactic allowed her to control how her images entered the public sphere, maintain some level of surprise and intimacy, and share the narrative on her terms.
While most of us won’t wear three designer gowns in one day (though hey—dream big!), the concept translates that you can segment major life moments into parts, to control your story and set boundaries, especially if you’re in the public eye or simply want to keep big events meaningful and on your own terms.
Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco's wedding weekend was magical. The bride was a vision of timeless elegance. The couple exchanged vows in front of about 170 guests during a private ceremony held at Sea Crest Nursery. It was nestled in lush gardens and covered by white tents with heightened security.
Her hair, styled in sculpted waves, enhanced the retro romantic vibe of the shoot, which was directed by Petra Collins, Selena's longtime collaborator. Meanwhile, Benny Blanco opted for a classic black Ralph Lauren tuxedo and posed for the photos with Selena by his side.