Mother-of-the-Bride Dress Etiquette

Start shopping 6 to 8 months before the wedding. This allows time for browsing, ordering, and alterations. Mother-of-the-bride gowns can take 3 to 4 months to arrive, so do not wait until the last minute.

Shopping early also means less stress and more options. You will have time to try multiple styles and find the one that makes you feel confident.

Choose a color that complements the wedding palette without matching the bride's gown. Popular choices include navy, champagne, silver, blush, and jewel tones. These colors photograph beautifully and work across seasons.

Avoid white, ivory, or anything too close to the bride's dress color. The mother of the bride should stand out as the mother, not blend in as a second bride.

The two mothers do not need to wear matching outfits, but their dresses should complement each other in formality and style. Often the bride helps coordinate so both mothers feel comfortable and cohesive.

A good rule of thumb: if one mother wears a long gown, the other should too. If one wears a cocktail-length dress, the other can match that length. The formality should be consistent.

Long gowns are classic and elegant, especially for evening or formal weddings. Cocktail-length dresses work well for daytime, outdoor, or less formal weddings. Match the length to the formality of the event.

The most important factor is how you feel. A dress you feel confident in will photograph better than one that follows a rule but makes you uncomfortable.

A-line, empire waist, and fit-and-flare dresses are universally flattering for mothers. Lace overlays, three-quarter sleeves, and flowing chiffon balance style and comfort beautifully.

At Boulevard Bride, we carry mother-of-the-bride designers including Dessy Group, MGNY by Morilee, Primavera Couture, and Marsoni. Our stylists can help you find a silhouette that works for your body and your daughter's wedding.