Choosing the perfect outfit for a special occasion that will make you feel beautiful is always a must, especially when it's your son or daughter's big day. The best mother-of-the-groom and mother-of-the-bride dresses or outfits boost a mother's confidence, allowing her to showcase her personal style and complement the wedding theme. These outfits symbolise a mother's significant role in their child's wedding day celebration and require thought and coordination.

This article explores how to choose a mother-of-the-bride dress, how to choose a mother-of-the-groom dress, and what mothers need to consider to ensure they're following dress etiquette.

Understand the wedding style

Understanding and aligning with the wedding style should be one of your first considerations when selecting the mother of the groom and mother of the bride dresses. The dress you choose should harmonise with the overall style of the wedding, whether it is formal, semi-formal or casual. By doing so, you ensure that your attire complements the tone and atmosphere of the event, making you feel like an integral part of the celebration that you are.

Considerations like the venue and season play a significant role in determining appropriate dress styles and fabrics. A more formal gown would be appropriate for the wedding in an elegant ballroom. On the other hand, for an outdoor wedding, such as a garden ceremony or beach destination, a dress with a lighter fabric and a breezier silhouette would be more suitable.

An elegant mother of the bride dress by Bernadette Pimenta Couture

In addition to the venue, consider the season and the related weather conditions. If the wedding is held in the summertime or in a warmer climate, opt for fabrics like chiffon or silk that are breathable and lightweight. For colder seasons or evening weddings, consider dresses with longer sleeves or pair your dress with a stylish jacket to keep you comfortable. Also, factor in the time of day when selecting your dress, as it can influence the event's formality and style choices.

By aligning your dress with the wedding style, venue, season and time of day, you not only ensure that you blend seamlessly with the overall aesthetic but also guarantee your own comfort throughout the event.

Consider dress colour options

Choosing the right colour for your mother of the bride or groom's dress is essential in creating a harmonious and elegant look. It's important to select colours that coordinate with the overall wedding colour scheme while ensuring you don't clash with the bridal party or steal the spotlight.

Opt for complementary colours that enhance the wedding palette without overshadowing the bride or groom. For instance, if the wedding colours are soft pastels like blush pink and mint green, consider a sophisticated taupe or a muted lavender dress to complement the palette. If the wedding features bold and vibrant hues like royal blue and fuchsia, you can choose a more understated colour like navy blue or a soft mauve to provide a subtle contrast.

If the wedding palette includes silver accents, a dress in a subtle shade of grey can beautifully complement the theme. Alternatively, for weddings with champagne tones, consider a dress in a warm and elegant champagne colour, offering a sophisticated and harmonious blend with the overall colour scheme.

Remember, the goal is to enhance the wedding aesthetic while allowing the bride or groom to shine. By choosing harmoniously coordinating and complementing the wedding colours, you can achieve a polished and refined look as the mother of the bride or groom.

Follow dress etiquette and dress code guidelines

There are some traditional guidelines around mother-of-the-groom and mother-of-the-bride dresses that ensure elegance and modesty while helping the modern mother avoid overshadowing the couple on their big day. Firstly, consider the appropriate dress length. Traditionally, mothers of the bride or groom opt for dresses that fall below the knee or reach tea length. This length balances formal and comfortable, allowing you to move gracefully while still adhering to traditional etiquette.

So, does the mother of the groom match the mother of the bride? It is customary for the mother of the bride to shop for her dress first before the mother of the groom. This sequence ensures that the mother of the groom's dress complements the style and colour of the mother of the bride's dress. While they don't need to be identical, it's important to maintain a cohesive look and coordinate with one another to create a visually pleasing and harmonious effect.

Understanding wedding dress codes is important because if the bride and groom provide one, you must consider it. The dress code is a guideline to ensure that all wedding guests, including the mothers, are appropriately attired for the occasion. Whether it's a black-tie affair, a semi-formal gathering or a casual outdoor wedding, adhering to the specified dress code demonstrates respect for the couple's wishes and creates a unified and cohesive atmosphere.

Determine flattering silhouettes and dress styles

Bernadette Pimenta in a mother of the bride dress of her own creation

When it comes to choosing a mother of the bride or groom outfit, determining the most flattering silhouettes and dress styles for your body type is key to looking and feeling your best. Various body shapes have different features to accentuate, and there are dress styles that can beautifully enhance each shape.

For example, if you have an hourglass figure, consider a fitted or A-line dress that cinches at the waist to highlight your curves. If you have a pear-shaped body, opt for a dress with an empire waistline or a flowing A-line skirt that skims over the hips.

For an apple-shaped body, look for dresses with empire or drop waists that create a lengthening effect and draw attention away from the midsection. Visual references, such as online fashion guides or magazines, can provide inspiration and help you visualise how certain dress styles can flatter your specific body shape.

In addition, for mature women, elegance, sophistication, and comfort should be prioritised when selecting mother-of-the-groom and mother-of-the-bride dresses. Embrace classic styles that are timeless and refined, such as a sheath dress with delicate lace or a tailored jacket and skirt ensemble.

Opt for fabrics with a bit of stretch for added comfort, and consider details like 3/4 length sleeves or illusion necklines for a touch of modesty. Balance simplicity with subtle embellishments like beading or embroidery to add interest without overpowering the overall look.

Mature women can exude elegance and grace without compromising on style. You can confidently showcase your personal style and feel fabulous on the special day of your child's wedding if you choose an outfit that prioritises comfort, sophistication and timeless appeal.

Select fabrics, details and accessories

Your choice of fabrics, details and accessories can significantly enhance and complete your overall look. Start by considering fabrics that offer comfort, breathability and wrinkle resistance. Opt for lightweight and breathable materials like chiffon, silk or jersey, which allow ease of movement and ensure you stay comfortable throughout the event. These fabrics also tend to be more wrinkle-resistant, ensuring you look polished and put together throughout the day.

Intricate details and embellishments play a crucial role in elevating the aesthetic of your wedding wear without overpowering the overall look. Choose dresses with tasteful details such as delicate lace, subtle beading or intricate embroidery. These embellishments can add visual interest, texture and a touch of elegance to your ensemble, enhancing its sophistication and charm.

When it comes to selecting complementary accessories, strive for a cohesive and balanced ensemble. Consider the colour palette of your dress and choose accessories that either match or complement the tones.

For shoes, opt for comfortable yet stylish styles, such as elegant pumps or dressy flats. Jewellery should be chosen to enhance your dress, considering the neckline and overall style. Opt for pieces that are not too overpowering but still add a touch of sparkle or sophistication. Handbags should be small and elegant, such as a clutch or a small evening bag, and should complement the overall look without distraction.

Remember, the key to selecting accessories is to strike a balance and ensure they enhance your outfit without stealing the spotlight. Choosing fabrics that prioritise comfort and breathability, selecting dresses with tasteful details and embellishments and carefully curating complementary accessories will help you create a cohesive and balanced ensemble that showcases your style and adds that extra touch of elegance to your mother-of-the-bride or groom look.

Shopping tips and finding the perfect dress

When embarking on the journey to find the perfect mother of the bride or groom's dress, some shopping tips can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable. Firstly, set a budget to help narrow your options and avoid overspending. Doing preliminary research beforehand can also be beneficial, as it allows you to gather ideas, explore different styles and understand current fashion trends.

Consider the possibility of alterations when selecting a dress. Finding a dress that fits perfectly off the rack is rare, so leaving room in your budget for alterations ensures a tailored and flattering fit. Professional alterations can significantly affect how the dress looks and feels on the big day.

To find the perfect dress, explore various avenues such as bridal boutiques, department stores and online retailers. Each option offers its own advantages, with bridal boutiques providing personalised attention and expertise, department stores offering a wide range of styles and sizes, and online retailers providing convenience and a vast selection.

Another option is to consider a custom-made dress. Custom-made dresses can be tailored to your exact measurements and style preferences, ensuring a truly unique and perfect fit. Dress designers like Bernadette Pimenta will work with you to help you explore the wide range of options for mother-of-the-groom or bride dresses.

When trying on dresses, take your time and don't be afraid to seek second opinions. Involve a trusted friend or family member to provide valuable feedback and ensure you feel confident and comfortable in the dress. Once you have tried various options, trust your instincts and make the final decision that brings you the most satisfaction. Remember, the chosen dress should make you feel radiant and reflect your personal style, celebrating your important role on your child's special day.

Find the perfect mother-of-the-bride or mother-of-the-groom dress in Melbourne

Choosing the perfect mother of the bride or groom dress involves aligning with the wedding style, following dress etiquette, flattering the figure and incorporating appropriate fabrics, details and accessories. It's essential to prioritise your style while embracing the significance of the mother's role. Enjoy the shopping process, exploring various options that make you feel confident and elegant.

Are you looking for the best mother-of-the-groom dresses or mother of the bride dresses in Melbourne? A couture wedding dress designer can guide you through the process of crafting a quality gown. Get in touch with Bernadette Pimenta today to discover the world of mother-of-the-bride or groom dress possibilities that are at your fingertips.

How to choose a mother of the bride or groom dress