The wedding season is such a special and emotional time, especially when it’s your own child getting married! As the mother of the bride or groom, it’s an opportunity to celebrate this beautiful moment and express your love and support in a meaningful way.
When my son Nathan married his beautiful wife Andressa, I went through all the feels—excitement, joy, and let’s be real, a bit of stress about finding the right outfit! With so many options out there, it can feel a little overwhelming.
I wish I had a go-to guide back then for “what does the mother of the bride or groom wear?” Between choosing the dress, thinking about hair, and pulling it all together with accessories, it felt like a big decision.
So…I created a “How to” guide just for you, based on my experience, with the goal of making it a stress free experience for you when it’s your turn.
Consider the Season
One of the first things to consider when choosing your dress for your child’s wedding is the season. And for so many women, menopause and those unpredictable hot flashes can be a big factor—especially for spring and summer weddings!
For warmer months, light, breathable fabrics like linen or chiffon will be your best friend. Not only do they look effortlessly elegant, but they also help you stay cool when the temperature—and your internal thermostat—starts to rise. Avoid anything too heavy or restrictive, and opt for styles that allow for airflow, keeping you comfortable through all the excitement of the day.
Autumn and winter are a bit more forgiving when it comes to fabrics, but still, think layers. This way, if you need to cool down quickly, you can easily adapt without sacrificing style. Dressing for the season doesn’t just mean matching the colors—it’s about ensuring you feel fabulous and comfortable from start to finish!
Understand the Dress Code
As the mother of the bride or groom, choosing your outfit can feel exciting but also a bit tricky. A great starting point is to get clear on the dress code for the wedding.
For formal events, opt for an elegant gown or a classy cocktail dress that adds just the right amount of sophistication without overshadowing the bride. If the wedding is more relaxed or outdoors, go for something like a knee-length or tea-length dress in a breathable fabric. Comfort is key, especially for outdoor weddings in warmer months.
It’s also helpful to coordinate with the other mother for a cohesive look in photos—no need to match, but a little coordination goes a long way. And always check in with the bride and groom to make sure your outfit fits their vision for the big day.
Finally, accessories are the finishing touch! Go for jewelry that adds a bit of sparkle, shoes that are stylish but comfortable enough for a long day, and a small, chic clutch to carry your essentials.
Communicate with the Bride
Leading up to my son’s wedding, I had the pleasure of supporting Andressa in making her big day everything she dreamed it would be. After knowing her for eight years, I already had a strong sense of her style and vision, so my role was to listen, offer encouragement, and help her dream even bigger.
An important tip for any mother of the bride or groom: it’s not your job to take over or make decisions. The bride needs to feel like she’s in control of her own vision. Your role is to offer support and guidance only when asked. This approach not only keeps the peace but also strengthens your bond throughout the process.
By focusing on helping Andressa bring her ideas to life, we avoided any conflicts, and the wedding became a beautiful reflection of her personality and our shared journey together. It’s all about being there when she needs you and letting her lead the way.
Pro tip: Keep communication open, but always let the bride take the reins. She’ll appreciate your support, and you’ll be able to enjoy the process without any unnecessary tension. It’s her day, and your support will make it even more special!
Dress for Your Body Type
Let me tell you, finding the right outfit for my son’s wedding had me really excited! I knew exactly what would look great on my body figure. This made shopping so much easier.
If you’re worried about your body shape, don’t be. There are absolutely stunning outfits out there for various body types: apple, pear, hourglass, or rectangle. It’s all about finding the perfect cut that flatters your figure and makes you shine.
Each of us is unique, and our bodies come in different shapes. The first step to finding a beautiful mother of the bride or groom outfit is to embrace our bodies as they are.
The best dress styles for different body shapes are:
When choosing the perfect dress as the mother of the bride or groom, knowing your body shape is a great starting point. The right style will not only complement your figure but also make you feel confident and comfortable throughout the day. Here’s a quick guide to the best dress styles for different body types:
Apple shape: Look for empire waist or A-line dresses that flow away from the midsection, and opt for V-necklines to draw attention upwards and create a balanced silhouette.
Pear shape: A-line or fit-and-flare dresses work wonders for pear shapes. Pair boat neck, off-the-shoulder styles, or tops with detail to balance your frame. Keep the bottom half simpler to create a proportioned look.
Hourglass shape: Wrap dresses and fitted bustiers will highlight your waist while giving structure. A-line skirts paired with V-neck or scoop necklines are also great for showing off curves without going over the top.
Inverted triangle shape: V-necks, scoop necks, and dresses with a cinched waist create definition while balancing broader shoulders. A-line skirts add a touch of femininity and balance to the figure.
Rectangle shape: Create curves with belted dresses or peplum tops that add definition at the waist. A-line dresses will also give your frame some softness and movement.
Pro tip: The key is to highlight your best features and downplay areas you feel less confident about. Don’t be afraid to play with textures, colors, and patterns that complement your shape. And always remember—getting a dress tailored to fit perfectly can make all the difference! It not only flatters your figure but also ensures you feel stylish and at ease from the ceremony to the reception. What Does Mother of the Bride Wear? Luxurious Fabrics!
READ ALSO: Ladies, Here’s How to Determine Your Body Shape
Dress to Impress
As the mother of the bride or groom, your outfit should reflect the significance of your role, and it’s perfectly appropriate to be more dressed up than other guests. After all, this is a day to celebrate not only your child but also your place in this special moment.
This is your chance to shine with an elegant, statement-making outfit that harmonizes with the wedding theme while allowing you to stand out with grace and sophistication. Opt for luxurious fabrics and thoughtful details that enhance your confidence and add a sense of celebration to the day.
Whether you’re walking your child down the aisle or mingling with guests, your attire should embody your personal style and radiate elegance. Let your outfit not only complement the event but also showcase the pride and joy you feel in this once-in-a-lifetime occasion.
Shapewear is your friend when it comes to achieving a smooth, polished look. It enhances the fit of your dress, highlights your curves, and keeps you comfortable all day and night.
A good bra is also essential. Pair your outfit with a good, supportive bra to ensure you feel secure and at ease, allowing you to fully enjoy every moment of the special day without any worries.
Your hairstyle should complement your outfit, the wedding theme, and the weather. Choose a style that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Accessories like hairpieces or flowers can enhance your look.
Shoes for Dancing
Choosing the right shoes is a key part of picking your mother-of-the-bride outfit. Comfortable yet stylish shoes are essential for wedding attire, keeping you on your feet from the ceremony to the last dance.
Whether your outfit is a floor-length gown, a chic cocktail dress, or an elegant pantsuit, it’s important to find shoes that match your style and are comfortable.
Go for shoes with padded insoles, arch support, and secure straps so you can dance without worry.
You can also go for shoes with a small heel or comfortable flats to make sure you enjoy every moment.
For my own experience, I wore beautiful sparkly high-heel sandals for the wedding and then changed into flat sparkly sandals for the reception. I was able to dance all night without sore feet.
How to Conceal Your Belly Fat
It is normal to want to hide parts of our bodies on the day of the wedding so we can feel confident and beautiful… For example, our bellies.
Don’t worry, there are stylish mother-of-the-bride or groom outfits designed for every body type. Mine was perfect, and I was free to breathe all night!
Start by looking at dresses with empire waists. The empire style fits just under the bust and flow beautifully over the middle, giving you a flattering shape while keeping you comfortable.
A dress with ruching or draping around the middle is another great choice. This smart design can hide any parts of your body you might not like.
Structured fabrics can also be a big help! A well-tailored outfit made of material that keeps its shape can hide any flaws and make you look stylish.
READ ALSO: This 14-Day Belly Fat Challenge Will Make You Feel Fabulous Over 50!
Accessories Matter
Accessories are a wonderful way to express your personal style, and they can truly elevate your entire look. The key is to choose pieces that reflect your personality while keeping things elegant and refined. It’s such a joy to find the perfect accessories that complement your outfit, from necklaces that drape beautifully to earrings that catch the light just right. These thoughtful touches can transform a simple dress into a stunning mother-of-the-bride or groom ensemble.
A well-chosen clutch or a delicate bracelet can add a subtle pop of color, pulling your entire look together effortlessly. Whether it’s a classic piece of jewelry or a unique statement item, your accessories should enhance your outfit and highlight your individual style.
Remember, the right balance of jewelry, hairpieces, handbags, shoes, or even a chic hat can make all the difference. And here’s a little tip: when aiming for a timeless, elegant look, less is often more. Keep it simple yet sophisticated to ensure you shine without overwhelming your outfit.
Wear Long-lasting Makeup
Long-lasting makeup ensures you look beautiful from the ceremony to the last dance, without worrying about constant touch-ups.
It keeps you looking your best in every photo, handling happy tears, laughter, and nonstop dancing.
When planning your outfit, consider how durable makeup enhances your overall look.
Choose a lipstick that won’t bleed, waterproof mascara, and sweat-resistant foundation to stay picture-perfect throughout your son or daughter’s wedding.
Don’t forget to pack a touch-up bag with essentials like foundation and lipstick for quick fixes. With long-lasting makeup, you’ll be ready for every special moment.
Consider a professional makeup artist to help create a flawless and long-lasting makeup look that complements your features and the overall style of your wedding.
READ ALSO: Essential Makeup Tips to Enhance Your Natural Glow After 50
Coordinate with the Wedding Party
It makes sense to coordinate your outfit with the wedding party to ensure it complements the event’s style and theme.
This thoughtful collaboration highlights the care and teamwork that goes into creating a memorable celebration, making the process even more meaningful and fun.
For Nathan and Andressa’s tropical cocktail-themed wedding, vibrant colors and festive attire set the tone for a lively and joyful atmosphere.
Coordinating the outfits for the bridal party adds to the beauty of the day and enhances the overall experience. Whether you choose a timeless gown or a chic cocktail dress, pairing it with the perfect accessories will help you feel both confident and connected to the celebration.
Be prepared for photos! As the mother of the bride or groom, your outfit should strike the perfect balance between stunning and comfortable.
Choose colors and fabrics that not only complement the wedding theme and venue but also photograph beautifully. Pay attention to how certain colors may reflect in photos—lighter shades can sometimes wash out, while bold, rich tones tend to pop on camera. Avoid fabrics that are too sheer, as they may become see-through under different lighting, which is something to consider for both day and evening events.
With the right choice, you’ll feel confident and look fabulous in every picture, creating lasting memories captured in style.
General Tips For Choosing Your MOB or MOG Outfit
When selecting your outfit for your child’s wedding, it’s essential to strike a balance between looking elegant and avoiding any potential fashion faux pas.
Here are some general tips to keep in mind:
Avoid Wearing Black: While black is a classic color, it’s often associated with mourning. Do not wear black; go for a brighter hue that complements the wedding color scheme and reflects the joyous occasion. In some cultures, wearing black to a wedding can be seen as disrespectful. It’s best to err on the side of caution and choose a different color.
Don’t Match the Bride: Your outfit should not match the bride’s wedding dress. This will avoid any confusion and ensure that she remains the center of attention. Don’t wear white. White is traditionally reserved for the bride. Wearing white can create confusion and detract from her day.
Avoid wearing the same color as the bridesmaids dresses: Similarly, try to choose a color that differs from the bridesmaids dresses to avoid blending in.
Prioritize your personal style: Your outfit should reflect your personal style and make you feel confident. Choose a dress that you love and that complements your body type. Start shopping early. Begin your outfit shopping well in advance to allow ample time for alterations and customizations.
Consider the Bride’s Dress: While your outfit should not match the bride’s dress, it’s important to consider the overall style and color palette of her wedding gown. This will help you choose a complementary look.
Remember, It’s Your Son or Daughter’s Wedding: Ultimately, the focus should be on the bride and her special day. Your outfit should complement the occasion without overshadowing the bride.
Navy Blue is a Classic Choice: Navy blue is a versatile and elegant color that can complement many themes. It’s a safe option that won’t clash with other colors.
Consider the Color Scheme: Pay attention to the wedding colors and choose a dress that complements them. Choose colors that flatter your skin tone. This will help you look your best in photos.This will create a cohesive and visually appealing look.
Open Communication with the Bride: Have an open conversation with the bride about her vision for that day. This will help you make informed decisions about your outfit and ensure that it aligns with the overall aesthetic.
Dress for the occasion: Keep in mind the formality of the wedding. A church wedding might require a more formal outfit, while a casual outdoor celebration might call for a more relaxed style. Stay away from wearing a short dress. While it may be appropriate for other occasions, it is generally not considered suitable for a wedding. For a black-tie wedding, a floor-length gown might be appropriate.
Avoid Wearing the Same Color as the Mother of the Groom: It’s best to choose a different color than the mother of the groom to avoid any potential awkwardness.
Closing Thoughts
As the mother of the bride or groom, you need to carefully think about a lot of things when choosing an outfit, like the season, the dress code, the bride’s style, and your own comfort. These tips will help you look and feel great while supporting your child on their big day.
Remember, it’s your time to shine in a way that complements the bride. Choose high-quality fabrics, dress for your body type, and carefully select your accessories to create an elegant and memorable look.
You will be ready to celebrate this happy event in style if you plan ahead and pay attention to these little things.
Celebrate the special moments and cherish this beautiful day forever!
