Once upon a time, mothers of the bride were expected to wear matronly dresses in Easter egg pastels. Thankfully, times have changed, and MOBs can now express their sartorial sensibilities to look as chic as they feel.
However, finding the perfect mother-of-bride dress can still be stressful. To help make the process easier, here are five style tips to consider.
Know Your Style
A classic mother-of-the-bride dress will make you look elegant and beautiful on your daughter’s big day. However, knowing your style when shopping for your outfit is essential.
For example, try a sapphire blue gown with gold accents if you love wearing jewel tones. This color is rich and sophisticated and goes well with various skin tones. In addition, choosing the best store online, like Alexandra’s Boutique, is essential in selecting high-quality dresses.
If you prefer a more conservative style, consider a long navy dress or a sleeveless option that can be paired with a bolero or wrap. Many MOBs feel more comfortable covering their arms, but if you love the look of sleeves, a sewist can always add them for you.
Know Your Budget
It’s best to start looking for a mother-of-the-bride dress six to eight months from the wedding. This gives mom ample time for shipping, alteration, and last-minute fittings.
It also allows the groom’s mothers to coordinate their outfits with any bridesmaid dresses they may have chosen. If the bridesmaids opt for pastel hues, select a corresponding color for the mother-of-the-bride.
For example, if the bridesmaids wear blush pink or champagne hues, Mom could choose this black embellished gown. It’ll accentuate her curves in all the right places and look beautiful with strappy heels or even a flapper-style headband. Plus, it’s offered at a great price point.
Know Your Size
Even the best dress can look frumpy if it’s too small. That’s why choosing a size that fits your body perfectly is so important.
Also, be sure to bring along a friend or family member with a good eye for style and a good sense of humor (who you trust not to gossip) to help offer filtered feedback and keep you from saying “yes” too soon!
Whether the wedding is in spring, summer, or fall, take cues from the bridesmaid dress color palette when choosing a mother-of-the-bride dress. She can always add a chic shawl or jacket if the weather gets cooler. A simple tea-length dress keeps her cool in warm weather, while a long-sleeved silhouette looks beautiful in colder temperatures.
Know Your Shape
There are a few things to remember when finding the perfect mother-of-bride dress. Choose a silhouette that flatters your figure rather than hiding it.
Another tip is to avoid too much shimmer or glitter. While these can be beautiful accents, they look frumpy if overdone.
Finally, be sure to consider the location and tone of the wedding. For example, if your daughter has a backyard garden wedding, opt for something more casual than a formal gown.
Also, remember to stick with classic colors unless you’re going for something super trendy. And lastly, always check the sizing chart before purchasing!
Know Your Comfort Level
The last thing you want is to feel frumpy while standing next to your daughter as she says, “I do!” To help combat this, it’s essential to find a comfortable dress. Whether you are looking for an elegant long-sleeve mother-of-the-bride dress or something more casual, there are plenty of options to suit your style and comfort level.
If you’re worried about matching your dress to the bridesmaids’ dresses, try a neutral color like silver or taupe. This way, you can check them without looking too overdone. Consider a light shawl to pair with your dress if you need coverage. Then you’ll be ready for any occasion!
Know Your Clothes
There’s no need to feel boxed in by outdated mother-of-the-bride dress etiquette. While it’s generally best to stick with light, neutral tones to not distract from the bride, today’s moms should wear whatever they please on their daughter’s big day.
Think beyond white and ivory and try shades like blush pink, taupe, jade, and navy for a modern bridal look. And feel free to skip the boleros and shawls, which sometimes feel fussy. Instead, consider an above-the-knee evening coat or a slimming bodysuit. These pieces add a touch of sophisticated glam while keeping you warm and comfortable.
Know Your Accessories
If you’re shopping for a mother-of-the-bride dress with your daughter, it’s essential to keep open communication about what the bride wants. Having this discussion early on can prevent one mom from feeling overshadowed by another.
Carefully chosen accessories like shoes, shawls, and purses can help elevate a mom’s look. Be sure to consider any wedding colors or themes that may be in play for the big day.
This feminine mother-of-the-bride dress is perfect for warm-weather weddings and features a romantic off-the-shoulder neckline and trendy sheer balloon sleeves. Pair it with a statement-making pair of heels and sparkling jewelry to wow!
Know Your Shoes
For a winter wedding, the mother of the bride dresses in heavier fabrics like velvet and wool, offering warmth and elegance. These dresses are chic and comfortable with their ruched sides and flattering draped silhouettes.
With its demure off-the-shoulder neckline, trendy sheer flutter sleeves, and romantic floral embroidery, this dreamy dress checks all the boxes for a non-frumpy mom look! Pair it with strappy heels and a pretty bracelet stack for a show-stopping look.
A metallic style will wow the crowd if you’re looking for a dress with a little more sparkle. Plus, it’s the pinnacle of timeless glam and naturally slimming! A definite must-have for the ultimate mother-of-the-bride look!
