When choosing a mother-of-the-bride dress, there are no rules except that it should flatter her figure. Fortunately, there are many styles, including sheath dresses and pantsuits.
This elegant sleeveless dress would be great for a spring wedding and pairs well with a lightweight shawl to keep you warm if needed.
Size
Choosing the right size for your MOB dress is just as important as finding a style that flatters. A too-big gown will look unflattering and might even be uncomfortable during the long wedding day celebrations. If you’re worried about getting the right fit, consider having your dress tailored or purchasing from a reliable shop like Alexandra’s Boutique to ensure you’ll have a perfect match on the big day.
It’s not required for the Mother of the Bride to match with the bridal party in terms of color and style, but many women like to coordinate their outfits for a more uniform appearance. If you’re unsure what colors to choose, talk with your daughter about her preferences and consider how the bridesmaids might plan to wear their dresses for an idea of what hues will complement your figure.
Whether you prefer a sophisticated black mother-of-the-bride dress or want to channel the Roaring ’20s, plenty of options are available in plus sizes to complement your style. I love this elegant, sleeveless gown featuring a modern halter neckline and a flattering pleated bodice that accentuates curves. It’s also made from a soft and breathable material that will keep you cool and comfortable throughout the evening. Pair it with a light shawl and strappy heels for a chic look that will turn heads.
Color
When choosing a mother-of-the-bride dress, the colors must be considered. If the bride’s wedding color theme is pastel pinks and purples, a mother can opt for a lighter neutral shade like ivory or white to complement them. Alternatively, she can choose an earthy color like blush, mauve, merlot, or wine to give her a deeper and more natural feel.
If the wedding is taking place in the fall or winter, rich jewel tones are an excellent option for the mother of the bride to wear. They pair well with various skin tones and complement any floral or fall theme.
Neutrals are a classic choice for mother-of-the-bride dresses and work for every season. Cream, ivory, blush, beige, and champagne are all beautiful shades that will look beautiful on almost any mother of the bride. For an extra pop of color, try a metallic hue like silver or gold. This is a great way to add sparkle and coordinate with the bridesmaids’ dresses!
Consider a pantsuit if you prefer to be less formal on the big day. This modern, versatile option allows you to be the bride’s mother while still being comfortable throughout the long wedding festivities. Pantsuits are available in various colors and styles from several top brands.
Style
Choosing a mother-of-the-bride dress style that flatters your figure is vital to staying away from frumpy looks. While long evening gowns are considered classic, don’t be afraid to think outside the box and opt for something less traditional, such as a sleek jumpsuit or pantsuit.
If you want to keep things simple but still look oh-so-elegant, opt for a solid color mother-of-the-bride dress adorned with minimal details. You’ll also find many options in a neutral hue, like gray or dark blue, which are naturally slimming colors. Plus, this color scheme works well with any season.
For example, a dark navy mother-of-the-bride dress will suit any summer, beach, or tropical destination wedding. This petite navy mother-of-the-bride dress features tonal beading, romantic cold shoulder details, and glamorous draping, creating an ultra-flattering silhouette. Pair it with a pretty bracelet stack for extra sparkle, and you’ll be ready to walk down the aisle with grace.
If you’re unsure of what to choose, taking cues from the venue, time of year, and bridesmaid dresses is a good idea. This will help you pick a color that complements the tone of the bridal party and fits in with the overall vibe of the wedding. Avoid shades too similar to the bride’s gown, as this could detract from her vision for her big day.
Fabric
Once upon a time, mothers of the bride were expected to wear matronly dresses in Easter egg pastels or washed-out shades of beige, but times have changed. Mother-of-the-bride dresses can be elegant and sophisticated in any color as long as it’s appropriate for the event. If you’re unsure which color to choose, ask the bride for her wedding color palette and preferences. Then, consider the climate at the wedding and whether you’ll need to dress for warm or cold weather.
You can’t go wrong with a dark-hued mother-of-the-bride dress for a classic look. Black dresses are naturally slimming and are easy to style with embellishments, prints, or beading. If you prefer a lighter color, dusty blush or lavender are beautiful options that work with most skin tones. Blue is also a failsafe shade for any mother of the bride, from pale silvery hues to duck egg or navy and even darkest midnight blue.
If a dress isn’t your thing, a chic pantsuit or jumpsuit can be equally elegant and comfortable for the day. Pair your look with glamorous and timeless accessories like chandelier earrings, a dainty necklace, or a stylish wrap. If you want to add a pop of color, opt for a clutch or shoes with a bold print or design.