When it comes to a wedding, the focus is often on the bride and her beautiful wedding dress. However, it's important not to forget about the other important women in the wedding party - the mother of the bride and the mother of the groom. These ladies play a vital role in the wedding, and their attire should reflect the importance of the occasion. In this article, we will discuss wedding dress etiquette for the mother of the bride or groom, including what colors they should wear, where to buy dresses, and other important considerations.
What Color Should the Mother of the Bride Wear?
Traditionally, the mother of the bride wears a dress that complements the wedding color scheme, but doesn't match the bridesmaids dresses exactly. For example, if the bridesmaids are wearing lavender, the mother of the bride could wear a light purple or lilac dress. It's important for the mother of the bride to coordinate with the wedding colors, but not to blend in too much.
Another consideration is the style of the dress. The mother of the bride should choose a dress that is elegant and sophisticated, but not too flashy or revealing. It's important to remember that the bride should be the center of attention, and the mother of the bride dress should not overshadow her.
What Color Should the Mother of the Groom Wear?
The mother of the groom should also coordinate with the wedding color scheme, but should not match the mother of the bride or the bridesmaids exactly. It's best to choose a complementary color that doesn't clash with the other colors in the wedding. For example, if the bridesmaids are wearing pink, the mother of the groom could wear a light blue or gray dress.
Like the mother of the bride, the mother of the groom should choose a dress that is elegant and sophisticated, but not too flashy or revealing. It's important to remember that this is a formal occasion, and the dress should reflect that.
Where to Buy Mother of the Bride/Groom Dresses
When it comes to buying a dress for the wedding, there are many options available. Department stores and bridal shops often have a wide selection of mother of the bride/groom dresses, but they can be expensive. Online retailers like Amazon, Nordstrom, and Macy's also offer a variety of options at different price points.
If you're looking for a more affordable option, consider shopping at a consignment or thrift store. You may be able to find a gently used designer dress for a fraction of the retail price. Another option is to rent a dress from a company like Rent the Runway, which offers designer dresses for a fraction of the retail price.
What Should the Mother of the Groom Wear?
The mother of the groom should also dress in a way that reflects the formality of the occasion. It's important to choose a dress that is age-appropriate and fits well. The dress should be comfortable enough to wear for an extended period of time, as the mother of the groom will be on her feet and interacting with guests throughout the day.
Another consideration is the wedding theme. If the wedding is taking place on a beach or in a garden, the mother of the groom may want to choose a dress that is lighter in color and made from a more breathable fabric. If the wedding is taking place in a ballroom or other formal setting, a more structured dress with beading or other embellishments may be appropriate.
Mother of the Groom Etiquette
In addition to choosing the right dress, there are other etiquette considerations for the mother of the groom. It's important to coordinate with the mother of the bride to ensure that your dresses don't clash or look too similar. You may want to communicate with the bride about the color scheme and any other dress code requirements.
Takeaways
In summary, as the mother of the bride or groom, it's important to dress appropriately for the wedding. This means adhering to the wedding's dress code and considering factors such as the wedding theme, location, and time of day. While there are traditional guidelines for mother of the bride or groom attire, modern trends have allowed for more flexibility and personalization in outfit choices. When it comes to color, it's generally recommended that the mother of the bride or groom avoid wearing the same color as the bridesmaids or the bride, but there are exceptions to this rule. It's also important to consider where to buy mother of the bride dresses or women's mother of the groom dresses, and to shop early to ensure you have plenty of time for alterations. Ultimately, following etiquette and showing respect for the wedding day will ensure a beautiful and memorable celebration for all involved.