The mother of the bride plays an important role in her daughter’s wedding. As a mother, you want to look your absolute best on your daughter’s big day, but you also want to be comfortable and appropriate. Choosing the right attire can be tricky – it’s not just about looking great, but also taking the setting, venue, and formality of the event into account. Here’s what you need to know about dressing up as a mother of the bride.
Considerations for Mother of the Bride Outfits
Before choosing an outfit, consider the following questions to better understand the event’s vibe and dress code:
What Time of Day is the Event?
The time of day the wedding will be held is of great significance when it comes to choosing your outfit. If the wedding is during the day, you’ll want an outfit that is light and bright, whereas, if it’s an evening event, a darker and more elegant outfit would be more appropriate. Ensure you understand the timing of the ceremony and whether it continues into the night.
What is the Venue Like?
Another important factor to consider is where the wedding will be held. Different venues require different dress codes, so take note of the location before picking your outfit. For instance, outdoor weddings held on a beach would require a more relaxed outfit such as a sundress and suits in pastel colors. On the other hand, a formal wedding at a luxury hotel calls for a sophisticated and elegant outfit such as a gown with a matching shawl.
What is the Overall Theme of the Wedding?
Knowing the couple’s wedding theme gives you an idea on what to wear. A wedding with a rustic, bohemian theme calls for an outfit that’s a little more relaxed and free-spirited, while a black-tie wedding demands a more formal outfit, such as a full-length gown.
Dressing for Different Seasons
Once you’ve considered the venue and the overall theme of the wedding, it’s time to decide what to wear based on the season. Here’s a guide on what to wear based on the weather:
Summer Weddings
Summer weddings tend to be favored by many couples, resulting in light, vibrant, and colorful pieces. As a mother of the bride, wearing a cute sundress with strappy sandals works well for a garden wedding. Alternatively, you can opt for light fabrics, such as cotton, linen or chiffon. Choose colors that are bright and fresh, such as pink, coral, or turquoise and complement your outfit with a fascinator or wide-brimmed hat.
Autumn Weddings
Autumn wedding events call for more low-key, subtle colors such as charcoal gray, muted shades of green, bronze, and deep burgundy. Dresses in warm metallic colors also work well, such as gold or bronze. For shoes, pair your dress with comfortable booties or dressy flats. You can also accessorize with a wool or cashmere shawl to keep you warm in case it becomes chilly outside.
Winter Weddings
For winter weddings, you should opt for cozy and warm outfits, keeping in mind the need to layer up as the temperature drops. Stick to darker and richer colors, such as midnight blue, deep reds, and emerald greens. A long-sleeved chiffon or lace dress is a great option. Pair your dress with long boots and accessorize with a faux fur stole to keep you warm throughout the day.
Spring Weddings
Spring weddings are a chance to be playful with pastel colors and floral prints. Add a pop of color to your outfit with bright pastel dresses in blush, lavender or peach color. A both stylish and comfort-wise choice would be a midi-length skirt and blouse made of luxurious silk or satin, paired with a complementing jacket.
Final Considerations
Now that you have an idea of how to choose an outfit as a mother of the bride, remember that staying comfortable and true to your style is of paramount importance. An outfit that you are comfortable in will allow you to enjoy the wedding with ease. Don’t be afraid to make a statement and showcase your own style and personality, but always remember to adhere to the dress codes and guidelines requested by the couple.
Conclusion
As a mother of the bride, there are many outfit options you can choose from. By considering the time of day, the venue, and the overall theme of the wedding, you can choose an outfit that’ll compliment the occasion. Whether you decide to wear a dress, skirt and blouse or pant suit, be sure to make it your own and showcase your unique style.
FAQ
What color is the mother of the bride’s dress supposed to be?
The mother of the bride is an important part of any wedding day. She is usually one of the key members of the bride’s family and plays a significant role in making sure everything goes smoothly on the big day. One question that often arises among mothers of the bride is what color their dress should be. While there’s no one answer to this question, as different families have different customs and traditions they follow when it comes to weddings, there are a few general guidelines that can help you choose the right color for your attire.
First and foremost, it’s important to remember that this is your child’s special day. Therefore, you want to look your best while also making sure that you don’t steal the spotlight from the bride. With that in mind, it’s best to avoid wearing white, ivory, or any shade that closely resembles the bride’s dress. This is to prevent any confusion or awkwardness on the day of the wedding. It’s also essential to avoid black as it can be seen as a color that represents mourning and sadness.
In terms of which colors are ideal for the mother of the bride to wear, there are a few options to consider. Soft pastel colors such as blush, lavender, and light blue can be a great choice for a spring or summer wedding. These colors are light and airy and complement the bright colors of the season. Jewel tones such as emerald green, royal blue, and deep purple are perfect for fall and winter weddings, as they add a touch of glamour and elegance to any outfit. The mother of the bride can also choose metallic shades. A gold or silver dress can add sparkle and a touch of luxury to the overall wedding ambiance.
The color of the mother of the bride’s dress will depend on many factors, including the season of the wedding, the bride’s preferences, and the overall color scheme of the event. However, it’s essential to remember that the most important thing is to look and feel confident and comfortable in your attire while also ensuring that your outfit stays out of the bride’s spotlight. By following these simple guidelines, you’ll be sure to choose the perfect dress that will make you shine without taking attention away from the happy couple on their special day.
Do mother of the bride and groom wear corsages?
When it comes to wedding traditions, one custom that has remained popular over time is presenting corsages to the mothers of the bride and groom. A corsage is a small arrangement of flowers, usually worn on the wrist or pinned to the bodice of a dress. Traditionally, corsages are presented to women as a way of honoring and celebrating their presence at important events.
In many cultures, the mother of the bride and groom are considered to be central figures in a wedding ceremony, and corsages help to highlight their importance. They are often presented as tokens of appreciation and gratitude from the bridal party, the groom, and the bride herself.
However, whether to wear a corsage at a wedding or not is not a hard and fast rule. Depending on personal taste or preference, some mothers may choose not to wear a corsage at their child’s wedding, and others may opt for different floral arrangements. For instance, some mothers might prefer to wear a flower in their hair or carry a small nosegay rather than wear a corsage.
When selecting flowers for the mother of the bride and groom, it is important to consider the overall color scheme and theme of the wedding. While lilies and roses are classic choices, incorporating each mother’s favorite flower or one that complements her ensemble is a thoughtful gesture. Ask the bride or wedding planner for guidance on flower arrangements and color coordination.
Although it is customary to present mothers of the bride and groom with corsages, it is ultimately up to the individual whether they choose to wear one or not. A different approach, such as a flower in the hair or small nosegay, can also be a beautiful and thoughtful way to show appreciation for the mothers’ presence on such a special day.