How to Choose

Because most mothers of the bride don't have much to do, they tend to place a lot of increased exposure of the dress. They need a gown which will blow everyone away and can make them feel such as a part of the wedding party, although they don't really have much to do. This is both a benefit and a curse.

On the plus side, the proper dress may transform them into the absolute most stunning woman in the room. On the minus, that actually isn't their role. The bride is supposed to be the standout, which is why the mother of the bride should always wait until her daughter and the bridesmaids have selected their dresses before she starts shopping.

Color

The mother of the bride should look for a dress that compliments the color scheme of the bridal party gowns, but doesn't duplicate it. Simply speaking, she cannot wear white and she shouldn't wear exactly the same color dress the bridesmaids wear, since she is not really a bridesmaid. Soft shades of yellow, green, pink and blue are understated colors that are ideal for nearly every wedding, irrespective of how formal or casual. Jewel tones like burgundy or purple are very popular at weddings in the fall and winter.

The easiest way to choose a pleasing color is to locate one that is several shades lighter than the bridesmaid's dresses. Considering that the bride-to-be selects the color, her mother could be certain she likes it. An identical color will even ensure that her dress doesn't clash with the remaining portion of the wedding party in pictures. The mother of bride may also coordinate dresses with the bride, since she is likely to be sharing hundreds of photographs with her on the wedding day.

What colors are off limits? White, ivory, and even champagne are frowned upon; they're simply too close to the bridal gown. Traditionalists also say that the mother of the bride should steer clear of red and black. Red is regarded as too flashy and black is the colour of mourning for mature woman.

Hemline

Even when it the ceremony is on the casual side, the mother of the bride should always ask her daughter about the length of her dress. While most mothers dress conservatively at the weddings of the children, a younger mother might feel uncomfortable wearing a complete length gown. Obviously, she shouldn't wear one that is much shorter than her daughter's dress. Tea-length dresses, long gowns and cocktail suits are popular selection for younger mothers of the bride.

Style and Cut

Different dresses flatter different body types. The absolute most versatile silhouette could be the classic A-line dress. It is somewhat bell-shaped and can make most women, especially older mothers, look their best. In regards to create, that is a real personal preference regarding mother of the bride dresses tea length. However, it is important to consider the mother of the groom. Tradition dictates that she take her fashion cues from the mother of the bride. So, if the mother of the groom is slightly older or perhaps a bit big in the hips, it might be best to pick an even more conservative, understated dress.

A Few More Tips

Avoid floral prints. They can be distracting and they rarely photograph well, especially next to girls in solid color gowns. Beads and sequins may also be out of style. The bridal gown is the only one that's allowed to be ostentatious. Ribbons, lace and ruffles are often within the top.

Accessories are an easy way for a younger mother of the bride who feels a little drab in her dress to spice it down a bit. A colorful sash, a shawl or some jewelry can add the ideal amount of color to an understated dress.