MOTHER OF THE BRIDE DRESSES (2024)

FAQs

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

Her dress should be in mid-tone browns with neutrals such as pewter, gold, silver, navy blue, black, and taupe.

Can the mother of the groom wear a short dress if the mother of the bride wears long? In short, yes. If the mother of the bride decides to wear long, this doesn't mean you have to. Especially if you're not comfortable in a full-length dress or outfit.

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.

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.

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.

While there aren't any special rules for mother-of-the-bride glam, moms should try and stick with a look that is elegant, understated, and appropriate. As for where to get ready, if the bride prefers to get glammed up with just the bridesmaids, don't get offended.

Traditionally, the mother of the groom should avoid wearing white, black, or the same colour as the bridal party. However, modern weddings are more flexible, and it's always best to discuss preferences with the couple.

When deciding whether your mother-of-the-bride dress should be long or short, it's important to consider the wedding venue and formality. A formal setting calls for a more upscale ensemble (like something floor-length), while a shorter, more casual wedding outfit is appropriate for laid-back celebrations.

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.

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.

Who pays for mother of the bride outfit? ›

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.

While it is traditional (although not obligatory) for the mother and father of the bride to receive a thank you gift from the newlyweds on the big day, a little memento from the bride's parents to their daughter is also becoming more popular.

According to traditional etiquette, the groom's family is responsible for paying for the bride's rings, the groom's and groomsmen's attire, the rehearsal dinner, gifts for the groomsmen, some personal flowers, the officiant's fee, the marriage license fee, certain aspects of transportation, and the honeymoon.

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.

She can spend the morning with the bride.

Regardless of your current relationship with your future mother-in-law, she'll inevitably become a major part of your life after the wedding. Inviting her to get ready together encourages bonding and makes her feel included in the celebration.

A: The Mother of the Bride is special. She needs to stand out a bit from the bridesmaids, so her dress should complement rather than match the bridesmaid's dresses. For example, the MOB could wear a dress in a similar color to the bridesmaids but in a deeper shade.

It's fine if she wants to wear something that doesn't match the bridesmaids' outfits or the wedding color palette. Most brides don't have a preference when it comes to what their mothers wear, so they're free to make their own decision.

Unless it's an all-white wedding, the bride requests you wear white, "or if you don't want your daughter to speak with you again," adds Mark and James, the mother of the bride should never wear a white dress.

As the mother of the bride, it is one of your responsibilities to act as a hostess at the wedding and reception to make sure the guests are comfortable. So, on the day, make sure you welcome guests, ensure everyone is looked after.