How to Choose a Mother of the Bride Outfit for the Bridal Shower (2024)

MOTHER OF THE BRIDE BRIDAL SHOWER OUTFITS


For many women, the bridal shower is one of the most important events in the lead-up to the big day—one in which her bridal party and mother play a large role, too. It’s a time to toast long friendships and get together with her nearest and dearest for some quality time and a more intimate celebration before the chaos of the wedding day itself. And while the spotlight is clearly on the bride, figuring out a bridal shower outfit for the mother of the bride is a key consideration.

4 THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING YOUR MOTHER OF THE BRIDE BRIDAL SHOWER OUTFIT


It can be tricky to choose a bridal shower outfit for the mother of the bride, because many invitations won’t necessarily specify a dress code—it’s likely to be more implied than explicitly stated. Here are a few factors to bear in mind when choosing a mother of the bride outfit for a bridal shower.

Time of Day


Bridal showers are typically held in the early or mid-afternoon, which means you’re not likely to need a black tie, formal outfit. If this is the case, the mother of the bride’s bridal shower outfit should veer on the elegant-but-fuss-free side: a simple dress or even a sophisticated blouse with a skirt or dress pants should do the trick. If the bridal shower is an evening event, then keep on reading for other cues as to what to wear…

What’s The Venue?


If the bridal shower is taking place at a bridesmaids’ or even the mother of the bride’s house, a formal look isn’t required—simply opt for an outfit that’s chic and put-together. If, however, the venue is a fine dining restaurant or a high-end hotel, go in something more formal—think a co*cktail or midi dress in a dressy fabric such as silk or satin. Whatever the case may be, the mother of the bride should never outdress her daughter, the bride.

Time of Year


Obviously, every mother of the bride should dress for a bridal shower in something that’s weather and season-appropriate: you don’t want to stick out as the person that wore a summer dress to a winter event, and you won’t have an enjoyable time if you’re sweating under winter layers in 90-degree heat. For a winter bridal shower, bring a shawl or stole and consider wearing a slip or stockings under your outfit; for a summer occasion, a lightweight scarf should be enough.

Is There a Theme?


If the bridal shower venue or invitation clearly indicates a theme, definitely follow it. That means flower crowns or daisy chains if it’s a Bohemian theme and lots of glitter and shine for a 70s disco party—you get the idea.

OUR TOP 3 MOTHER OF THE BRIDE BRIDAL SHOWER OUTFITS

How to Choose a Mother of the Bride Outfit for the Bridal Shower (1)

Shop our floral midi dresses!

Floral Mock Neck Midi Dress in Dusty Blue Multi


Lightweight and flattering, this stretch chiffon dress is a versatile bridal shower option for the mother of the bride. The signature blouson silhouette is comfortable yet elegant thanks to its ruffled mock neck and flowy, midi-length bias skirt. Keep jewelry to a minimum; a small bag and flats or heels (depending on the venue and time of day) are enough.

How to Choose a Mother of the Bride Outfit for the Bridal Shower (2)

Shop our chiffon dresses!

Plus Size Chiffon & Crepe Bias Dress in Icy Topaz in Mint Smoke


This dress is cut slightly on the shorter side, which makes it a more suitable mother of the bride option for morning or afternoon bridal showers. The blouson chiffon bodice, flutter sleeves, and graceful crepe skirt are flattering details for every mother of the bride. Add strappy sandals or heels and delicate jewelry for a polished finish.

How to Choose a Mother of the Bride Outfit for the Bridal Shower (3)

Shop our velvet sheath dresses!

Velvet Sheath Dress in Antique Rose


A sheath dress is always classic: it’s a shape that works on most body types, can be dressed up or down with accessories, heels and makeup, and is a style that you’ll turn to for years to come. This antique rose velvet version is an ideal mother of the bride option for a winter bridal shower: team with simple metallic pumps or sandals, and finish with earrings or a co*cktail ring for a bit of personality.

How to Choose a Mother of the Bride Outfit for the Bridal Shower (2024)

FAQs

How to Choose a Mother of the Bride Outfit for the Bridal Shower? ›

It is important to wear something chic but not something as formal as your actual MOB wedding day outfit. You want to wear a look that is comfortable so that you feel confident and beautiful for the celebratory day ahead. Is the bride having her shower at lunchtime or late afternoon?

What should the mother of the bride wear to a bridal shower? ›

If this is the case, the mother of the bride's bridal shower outfit should veer on the elegant-but-fuss-free side: a simple dress or even a sophisticated blouse with a skirt or dress pants should do the trick.

What color is the mother of the bride supposed to wear? ›

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.

Does it matter what the mother of the bride wears? ›

Traditionally, the bride's mother has the honor of selecting her outfit first. Try not to choose colors that are the same or very similar to the bride's and bridesmaids' dresses—you won't stand out. Wear different colors from each other.

What should an older woman wear to a bridal shower? ›

For more formal affairs, she advises guests to lean into fancy styles, like midi dresses and pantsuits, without going over the top. For guests who don't have a specified dress code to follow, opt for pieces that you would wear to a nice brunch or an elegant social gathering.

How much should the mother of the bride spend on a shower gift? ›

The standard amount to spend on a bridal shower gift is around $50-$75.

What should the mother of the bride not do? ›

Mother of The Bride: How to Avoid Upstaging or Upsetting the...
  • Consult with The Bride. ...
  • Avoid Being Too Casual. ...
  • Don't Make the Wedding About You. ...
  • Don't Be Pushy. ...
  • Don't Tell Her Who Should Be Her Bridesmaids. ...
  • Don't Compare Her Wedding to Others. ...
  • Don't Be Too Critical. ...
  • Don't Make Empty Offers.

Who walks the mother of the bride to her seat? ›

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.

Does the mother of the bride carry a purse down the aisle? ›

The mother of the bride can wear a handbag or opt out of it, the choice is her own! However, some brides might ask their mothers to bring a bigger handbag to help them store some of the bulkier items they might need throughout the day.

Should the mother of the bride wear cream? ›

White should be reserved for the bride, although cream could be an option as long as the bride isn't wearing cream. Some bright reds can be rather loud for such a soft, romantic occasion. It all comes back to what the bride feels comfortable with. Be sensitive to her wishes.

Should mother of the bride wear hair up or down? ›

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.

How long should a mother of bride dress be? ›

more formal than the attire of the wedding guests. The dress should also be appropriate for the time of day and the style of the wedding. For daytime weddings, it is typically more appropriate to choose a knee-length or midi length dress.

How to look slim as mother of the bride? ›

The right detailing on mother of the bride dresses can work wonders in creating a slimming effect. Consider the following options: Vertical Embellishments: Dresses with vertical beading, embroidery, or sequins can create a lengthening effect, drawing the eye up and down and making you appear taller and slimmer.

What do mothers wear to bridal showers? ›

Of course, you don't have to wear a bridal shower dress if you're the mother of the bride. Other options for a bridal shower include dress slacks with a pretty blouse, a feminine skirt with a fitted sweater top or a feminine, festive jumper.

What not to wear to a bridal shower? ›

Avoid wearing white, black, or anything that may detract from the wedding festivities. Bridal showers can range from formality, location, and season, so be sure to dress to fit the occasion.

Should a mother give her daughter a bridal shower? ›

Traditional etiquette dictates that the maid of honor—not the mother of the bride—should host the shower. Nancy is a freelance writer for MarthaStewart.com. Some etiquette rules were meant to fade away into oblivion, like the one about family members of the bride not hosting her bridal shower.

What is the role of the mother of the bride at the bridal shower? ›

Whether she's handling your bridal shower or greeting out-of-town guests once they arrive in town for your nuptials, the mother of the bride is the official hostess and should focus on helping each attendee feel welcome.

Should the grooms mother wear the same color as the brides mother? ›

Do the mother-of-the-bride and groom match? While mother-of-the-bride dresses are similar to mother-of-the-groom dresses, the moms don't need to match.

Does the mother of the bride give a gift to the bride? ›

Yes, it's traditional for the parents of the bride to give her a gift on her wedding day, such as jewelry, money, or something sentimental. This is a way for parents to show their love and wish her well as she starts her new life.

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