Your son or daughter’s wedding is one of the most unforgettable events in your life, so naturally, you want to look your best. Before diving into the specifics of mother of the bride (or groom) outfits, let’s address an essential point:
It’s perfectly fine, even necessary, to splurge on your outfit! Don’t cut corners on your wedding outfit, even if you think you’ll only wear it once. While it’s great if you can reuse the outfit for other occasions, don’t compromise on feeling special. Trust me, it’s worth the investment. Despite current circumstances affecting weddings worldwide, the memories and photos from that day will last a lifetime. I’ve personally made the mistake of opting for a budget-friendly outfit for a high-profile event and regretted it ever since!
Now, let’s dive into what you should wear.
Guidelines for Mother of the Bride/Groom Outfits
Weddings are taking place again, often larger than before, and you’ll want to look your best. Here are some general guidelines for your outfit:
Don’t Match the Wedding Dress
Avoid wearing the same color as the bride’s dress. Also, find out what color the bridesmaids are wearing to avoid looking like one of them.
Avoid Black
Black can give off a mourning vibe. If you’re over 40, consider outfits with more color which are often more flattering. If you love black, mix it with another color for a chic look.
Steer Clear of Flashy Shades
While wearing color is encouraged, avoid colors that are too bright like fiery red, bright pink, or neon yellow. Instead, opt for subtler, multi-colored dresses, especially for summer weddings.
Keep it Classy
Avoid outfits that are overly sexy. Let the bride shine as the sexiest in the room.
Be Versatile for Multiple Locations
For weddings that include various settings such as a church service, ensure you have a jacket or cover-up for your dress.
Choose Timeless Styles
Pick something modern yet timeless with clean lines, so you’ll be happy with how you look in photos for years to come.
Opt for High-Quality Fabrics
Ensure your outfit doesn’t wrinkle easily and suits the climate. Synthetic fabrics can make you sweat, which is something to consider.
Additional Tips
Communicate with the Bride
Ask the bride about her preferences, especially regarding colors and styles. She might even want to coordinate your dress with the bridesmaids.
Plan Ahead
Shop for your dress well in advance to avoid last-minute stress and to help with wedding preparations.
Stay True to Your Style
If you prefer simpler outfits, avoid going overboard with sequins and gems. Comfort and confidence are key.
Pants are an Option Too
While dresses are traditional, a high-quality pants and blazer combo can be just as elegant. There are great resources available to guide you on how to style pants for this special occasion.
Wedding Outfit Ideas
Fashion items sell out quickly, but here are some ideas to inspire you:
Knee-Length Dresses
Ideal for covering your upper arms while adding a luxe touch, such as the Adrianna Papell Beaded Flutter Sleeve Midi Dress.
Midi Dresses
A classic choice that’s on-trend, perfect for weddings and beyond, like the Kay Unger Sabina Twist Front Midi Dress.
Long and Elegant Dresses
For a more formal feel, consider maxi dresses or the Kay Unger Zoey Lace Mermaid Dress.
Dress Suits
If you prefer not to show your arms, dress suits like the Alex Evenings Long Mock Jacket Dress with Satin Skirt are a good option.
Black with a Twist
If you must wear black, choose an outfit that incorporates other colors or vibrant accessories.
Summer and Outdoor Weddings
Opt for floral prints and lighter fabrics suitable for beach or garden weddings, such as the Sachin & Babi Jenny Gown.
For a Little Extra Coverage
Layered dresses or outfits with a built-in cape can help if you want to hide the belly area or prefer more coverage.
Pant Suits and Jumpsuits
Stylish options that offer comfort and elegance, like the Oleg Cassini Embellished Waist Crepe Jumpsuit with Peplum.
Edgy Choices
Combine the elegance of a gown with the comfort of pants, such as the Oleg Cassini Crepe Pantsuit with Brocade Skirt Overlay.
Where to Shop
For great selections of mother of the bride or groom dresses, check out stores like David’s Bridal, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Dillard’s, Anthropologie, and Amazon, among others.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect outfit is about balancing the bride’s wishes with your own preferences and ensuring you feel comfortable and confident. Happy shopping!
For more inspiration on mother of the bride outfits, check out additional resources and continue reading on topics like hiding your tummy or selecting the perfect little black dress for your body type.