How to Choose a Dress for the Mother of the Bride

Considering the Wedding Theme and Style

Think about formality. How formal is the wedding? This will affect the kind of dress it's appropriate to wear. A very formal wedding will require a dress to match, while you can go for something more casual for a low-key wedding. A full-length is required for a very formal wedding. Your dress should minimize sparkle. Stick to a conservative gown in only one or two colors. A very casual wedding, like a beach wedding, does not call for a very fancy dress. A sundress may be sufficient, although a light shawl or cardigan may be necessary in case it gets chilly. Make sure to consult with the bride so your dress is not more formal than her dress. For semi-formal weddings, choose a dress that matches the attire of the bride and bridesmaids. Something like a halter dress with a jacket can easily fit in at a semi-formal affair.

Keep the theme in mind. If a wedding has a strict theme, it's important your dress matches that theme. Make sure you know the theme of the wedding, and the kind of attire that's appropriate, before selecting a dress. For example, a wedding with a renaissance theme may require a dress with an archaic feel. Religious and other customs may also affect the type of dress you should wear. A wedding following a specific religious tradition, for example, may require a special type of dress.

Think about the time of day. When the wedding takes place can also affect the appropriate type of dress. Day and morning weddings generally require shorter, slightly more casual dresses. Weddings that take place closer to the evening often require evening dresses.

Select the right attire for destination weddings. A destination wedding may come with special considerations in regards to style. A wedding at a castle, for example, may require a long ball gown. A wedding at a beach may require a light, sunny dress.

Selecting the Right Style

Add some variation with color. You should not choose a dress that is the same color, or a very similar color, to the bridesmaids dresses. You want some variation so you will stand apart slightly from the crowd. However, you do not want to draw attention away from the bride. Pick something that fits with the color scheme, but is not too similar to the bridesmaids dresses. For example, if bridesmaids are dressed in a deep purple shade, a lavender dress can be an appropriate option. If there is another mother of the bride, you may want to consult with her as well.

Choose the right pattern. A solid colored dress can be appropriate, but you can also opt for patterns. This can be something to set you apart from the wedding party. If bridesmaids dresses are a single color, for example, you can wear a striped or polka dot dress. Make sure to take color into consideration as well when choosing a pattern. Choose colors that match with the wedding party's color scheme.

Talk about style choices with other mothers. The mother of the groom, or the mother of the other bride, will likely be choosing a dress as well. It's a good idea to coordinate outfits. You do not have to wear the same attire, but you may want their dresses to have a few things in common. For example, you could agree to wear dresses with a similar cut, pattern, or style.

Figure out the right length. Length depends heavily on the wedding's general atmosphere and theme. Usually, longer dresses and skirts work best for weddings after noon. For morning weddings, select something shorter. However, keep in mind there are no hard and fast rules. You want something that makes you feel comfortable and matches the wedding's atmosphere. For example, do not feel you have to select a longer dress for a very casual wedding that happens to take place later in the day.

Choosing a Dress Effectively

Start dress shopping early. As soon as possible, start shopping for your dress. This way, you can take as much time as you need to pick something that works for you. However, let the bridesmaids pick out their dresses first so you can coordinate yours. The mother of the groom, if there is one, should pick out her dress after yours. You want to make sure your dress fits in with the rest of the wedding party. Aim to have a dress settled on about a month before the wedding.

Communicate while choosing a dress. Make sure to keep communication open with your daughter. As you select your dress, talk to your daughter about the wedding's general style. This way, you can make sure the dress matches somewhat with the ceremony.

Purchase a dress at a specialty outlet. Go to an outlet that sells wedding attire to buy a dress, if possible. Professionals may be able to offer advice on the best dress for the mother of the bride. They can also make adjustments on your chosen gown if needed. Make sure to have as much information nailed down as possible before going into a specialty outlet. A professional will want to know the theme of the wedding and other outfits that have been chosen.