Mother-of-the-Bride and Mother-of-the-Groom Dresses

What Should the Mother of the Groom Wear?

What the mother of the groom should wear depends upon the wedding theme and the bride’s preference. A traditional mother-of-the-groom dress is modest, understated, and complements the mother-of-the-bride’s dress, but modern weddings call for a dress that showcases your personality while respecting the bride’s vision. Before choosing a mother-of-the-groom dress, here are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind:

1. Keep the Bride Happy. Always check with the bride for guidance. She’ll let you know if there is a special theme or color to keep in mind. Sometimes the bride prefers that the mothers dresses coordinate with the bridesmaid dresses, while other times the mother-of-the-groom dress is expected to accent the groomsmen’s apparel. Find out what the bride has in mind first before shopping for your mother-of-the-groom dress.
2. Follow the Mother-of-the-Bride’s Lead. Since the dress for the mother of the bride and the dress for the mother of the groom should not be the same or match too closely (unless the bride requests it), it’s a good idea for both mothers to keep in touch regarding their gowns. Typically, the mother-of-the-bride dress is chosen first, with the bride’s approval. Then the bride’s mom runs it by the mother of the groom to share the style, color, and formality. For example, if the bride’s mom selects a short mother-of-the-bride dress, then you should follow suit and choose a knee-length or short mother-of-the-groom dress in your preferred style. When you follow the mother-of-the-bride’s lead, you’ll be showing that you have the bride’s best interests at heart.
3. Match the Wedding Theme and Colors. Select a mother-of-the-groom dress that complements the wedding theme and the bridal party. For instance, if the wedding has a romantic theme, a bohemian mother-of-the-groom dress in flowing chiffon is beautifully appropriate. A more modern wedding might call for a contemporary fitted mother-of-the-groom dress with sleek lines and minimal embellishments. When it comes to color, go for a complementary hue to those chosen for the bridesmaid and mother-of-the-bride dresses, unless the bride says otherwise.
4. Consider the Time of Day, Venue, and Season. When you choose a dress, it’s important to keep in mind the time of day, the venue, and the season for the wedding and reception. For a daytime celebration, short semi-formal styles are often appropriate, while a formal evening wedding at an upscale location calls for a long formal dress. If the couple is exchanging vows in a church, opt for a conservative style, perhaps with a wrap or sweater. For outdoor services in summertime, you’ll be most comfortable in a semi-formal mother-of-the-groom dress made from lightweight fabrics that do not cling to the body. For fall or winter weddings, a formal dress with extra coverage, like a long skirt and long sleeves, is sure to keep you warm. Even with these considerations in mind, it’s always important to check with the bride to make sure your choice of mother-of-the-groom dress matches with her wedding vision.

Both mothers are important members of the wedding party, so you’ll both want to look the part in an exquisite mother-of-the-groom or mother-of-the-bride dress for the couple’s special day. Mother-of-the-groom dresses and MOB dresses can be traditional and modest, featuring sleeves or matching boleros, or there are modern mothers dresses styled more like bridesmaid dresses or mom prom dresses for a youthful, trendy look. Gone are the days when the mother-of-the-groom or mother-of-the-bride dress has to look matronly or conservative, so you can be true to your own comfort and style. Just about any formal gown can look and feel great for your son’s or daughter’s wedding day, so check in with the happy couple. What matters most when it comes to choosing your mother-of-the-bride or mother-of-the-groom dress is the joy it will bring to you and the bride and groom on their wedding day. With a selection of popular colors, quality fabrics, and timeless or contemporary details, PromGirl has got everything you need to find fabulous mother-of-the-bride and mother-of-the-groom dresses that are true to you and your child’s big day.