A Guide to Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses (2024)

FAQs

What are the rules for mother of the bride dresses? ›

A basic rule of wedding etiquette is that the mother of the bride should not outshine her daughter. So, don't choose gowns or dresses that would overpower the bridal gown. Also, try to avoid loud patterns that will overwhelm in photos and make you stand out from the rest of the wedding party.

While almost anything goes for mother-of-the-bride attire—so long as the bride approves—it is important to follow certain cues dictated by the venue. For example, it's probably best to wear a strapless dress to a beach ceremony rather than a church wedding.

(Psst: The same goes for grandmother-of-the-bride dresses, too.) Moms are encouraged to wear an outfit that they love (with the bride's approval, of course). Sleek evening gowns, trendy midi dresses, dressy jumpsuits and chic MOB pantsuits are all excellent options.

Typically the Mother of the Bride's dress should complement the bridal party's color palette. Not necessarily match with the bridesmaids, but choose a color in the color family. The most popular color for the mother of the bride to wear is navy or a royal blue, followed by blush or a shade of nude.

Mother of the Bride & Groom

Both the mother of the bride and the mother of the groom are expected to pay for their own wedding attire. Typically, these gowns do not need to match the bridesmaid dresses, however, some brides prefer for the gowns to coordinate in some way.

A: The Mother of the Bride needs to coordinate with the Mother of the Groom and decide whether they will be wearing long or short dresses, but both are acceptable.

These days, virtually anything goes—formal gown, short or long dress, skirt-and-jacket ensemble—so long as it matches the style of the wedding. Brides can be very helpful by encouraging "the moms" to work together in choosing their outfits.

Updos are a mother-of-the-bride hairstyle favorite for a reason: they're timeless, they frame your face and they work with a wide variety of dress styles. Whether it's a beautiful braided bun, an elegant chignon or an updo with a few wispy tendrils, you really can't go wrong.

A cohesive jewelry set for the mother of the bride often includes a necklace, earrings, and sometimes a bracelet, tailored to the formality of the wedding and her personal style. Classic designs in metals that match her outfit will create a refined look.

Do mother of bride and groom wear the same color? ›

Because the mother of the groom isn't part of the bridal party, she should avoid choosing a dress in the same color as the bridesmaids' attire, the mother of the bride's dress, or the wedding gown.

The mother of the bride plays the role of hostess, meaning you should spend some time greeting guests during the reception. Although there are exceptions, other wedding-day duties may include sitting at the parents' table and dancing with the father of the bride to help warm up the dance floor.

The mother of the bride is traditionally escorted by her son if she has one. Otherwise, any close male relative, the best man, or a groomsman walks with the mother of the bride during the procession.

As the mother of the bride, you might be asked to hold many of the brides' trinkets and larger things like shoes. For that, we recommend a medium sized handbag such as the BRYANT MED or ADDIE MED.

Ideally, it's best to start looking for a mother of the bride outfit six to eight months before the wedding date. This should give you enough time to try on a few different options, find something you love and allow for any alterations that need to be made.

Floral Prints

A floral dress can add a touch of whimsy and femininity to any mother of the bride outfit. Choose a dress with a delicate, soft floral pattern for a classic look, or go bold with a more vibrant print.

There are no rules stating you cannot wear part or all of the same outfit if it still fits and suits you – but it is important to ask your son or daughter how they feel. My experience is that sons are practical and not overly concerned about what their mother wears to their wedding.