How to Choose the Mother of Bride/Groom Dress
When it comes to choosing wedding attire, all the focus tends to be on the bride's gown and the bridesmaids' dresses—but what about the mothers of the bride and groom? These incredible women play a huge role in the wedding, and their outfits deserve just as much attention!
If you’re a mother of the bride (or groom!) and feeling overwhelmed by the endless dress options, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Whether you're looking for a chic and elegant gown or something timeless and comfortable, this guide will help you choose the perfect mother-of-the-bride dress that complements the wedding and makes you feel amazing!
Things to Consider When Choosing a Mother of the Bride/Groom Dress
Before picking out your dream dress, consider a few key elements of the wedding:
✔ The Formality of the Wedding – Is it black-tie, semi-formal, or casual?
✔ The Wedding Theme & Color Palette – Does the dress complement the overall aesthetic?
✔ The Time of Day & Season – Will the fabric and style be comfortable?
Now, let’s break these down further!
1. Matching the Dress to the Wedding Formality
The dress code of the wedding will set the tone for what’s appropriate. Here’s a quick guide:
👗 Black-Tie or Formal Weddings → Go for an elegant floor-length gown, sophisticated jumpsuit, or a chic evening dress with refined details like lace, beading, or silk fabrics.
💃 Semi-Formal Weddings → A midi or knee-length dress works well! Look for styles that are elegant but not overly dramatic.
🌿 Casual or Outdoor Weddings → Flowing maxi dresses, floral prints, or soft pastel hues will keep you looking stylish yet comfortable.
Pro Tip: Avoid white, ivory, or anything that might overshadow the bride (unless given the all-clear). The goal is to look stunning while keeping the spotlight on the happy couple!
2. Coordinating with the Wedding Theme & Colors
The wedding theme and color palette should help guide your dress choice. While you don’t need to match the bridesmaids exactly, your dress should complement the overall aesthetic.
🎨 How to Choose the Right Color:
Neutral Tones – Champagne, navy, blush, or soft gray work well for almost any wedding.
Jewel Tones – Emerald, burgundy, or sapphire add a sophisticated pop of color.
Soft Pastels – Perfect for spring/summer weddings (think dusty blue, mauve, or sage green).
👗 What About Patterns? If the wedding has a floral or boho theme, a tasteful floral print can be a great option. Just be sure it’s not too bold or distracting!
3. Considering the Time of Day & Season
The time of day and weather conditions should also play a role in your dress choice:
☀ Daytime/Summer Weddings → Light, breathable fabrics like chiffon, crepe, or cotton blends will keep you cool. Short sleeves or cap sleeves are great options.
🌙 Evening/Winter Weddings → Velvet, satin, or heavier fabrics will keep you warm while looking elegant. Consider long sleeves or a stylish wrap for added warmth.
No one wants to be freezing in a sleeveless dress or overheating in long sleeves, so plan accordingly!
4. Should the Mother of the Bride & Groom Coordinate Outfits?
While the mother of the bride and mother of the groom don’t have to match, it’s a good idea to coordinate! Here’s how to do it:
Stick to complementary colors that align with the wedding palette.
Keep dress styles similarly formal—if one wears a floor-length gown, the other shouldn’t show up in a sundress.
Communicate with each other (and the bride!) to ensure a cohesive look.
Ultimately, both mothers should feel confident, beautiful, and comfortable in their dresses!
Where to Shop for the Best Mother of the Bride Dresses
Now, onto the fun part—finding the perfect dress! There are SO many options out there, which can feel overwhelming. That’s why I’ve rounded up some of my favorite places to shop for gorgeous, flattering, and affordable mother-of-the-bride dresses:
1. Elegant & Timeless Gowns - JJ’s House
Perfect for formal weddings, this shop offers stunning evening gowns with lace, beading, and elegant silhouettes that photograph beautifully.
2. Affordable & Stylish Picks - Azzazie
Looking for something budget-friendly that still looks fabulous? This retailer has a wide range of midi and maxi dresses in soft, flattering colors.
3. Something A Little Flashier - Prevue Formal and Bridal
These mother of the bride dresses stand out and provide a little WOW factor!
Final Thoughts: Your Dress Should Make You Feel Amazing!
At the end of the day, your mother of the bride/groom dress should make you feel confident, comfortable, and beautiful. Whether you go for classic elegance, modern chic, or soft and romantic, there’s a perfect dress out there for you!
💬 Still need help deciding? I’d love to help! As a wedding photographer, I work closely with families to ensure everyone looks and feels their best on the big day.
📸 Want timeless, stunning wedding photos that capture every special moment?
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