By Lei Lydle, Founder and Editor Last Updated: 3/21/2009 5:02:41 PM

The dresses of the bride's and groom's mothers should coordinate with the overall look of the wedding in regard to style and color. It is important that all of the dresses compliment each other for the pictures.

The mothers' dresses should be somewhat conservative, and not longer or more formal than her daughter's dress. Usually the mothers wear a neutral color or a lighter shade of the bridesmaids' dresses.

Below you will find guidelines for the proper mothers' day and evening attire.

Mothers should not wear white dresses to the wedding. I have seen several mothers wearing white dresses that closely resembled wedding gowns - this is VERY tacky!

Speak with the bride before wearing a black dress. While black is a standard color for evening wear, it can stir up controversy when it comes to weddings. In the past, if either mother wore black it meant that they did not approve of the wedding. Today, black is more accepted but may still cause a flurry of gossip. Ask the bride how she feels about black before you purchase a black dress.

For a very formal day or evening wedding the mothers should wear floor-length gowns and these gowns should NOT be white. Wear heels that are appropriate for the dress but try to select comfortable shoes. Coordinate your accessories but leave the watch at home! For a formal wedding the mothers should wear corsages or carry small bouquets.

For a semi-formal day or evening wedding the mothers should wear a street-length dress, again, it should NOT be white. Heels and accessories should coordinate with the dress. For a semi-formal wedding the mothers should wear corsages.

For an informal day or evening wedding the mothers should wear a suit or nice "Sunday" dress, again, it should NOT be white. Or, if the informal wedding is being held at the beach or some other fun or unusual location, the mothers should dress appropriately. Heels and accessories should coordinate. For an informal wedding the mothers should wear corsages.

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Posted by: Barbara from Fairfax, Virginia on 3/21/2009 12:05:44 PM

I am the mob. Need help on choosing a dress. It is a fall morning outdoor wedding, with a beautiful view of the mountains. The brides maids are wearing Tea length black gowns with ivory sashes and carrying bright pinks and reds bouquet. The bride wants me to wear a long dress - I am not sure what color to get. I look better in dark greens, navy,but can't seem to find fall colors out there yet. Advice on length or color? Wedding Date: 10/10/09

Posted by: Christine from Naperville, Illinois on 3/9/2009 1:06:10 PM

My mother is wearing a lovely dark blue gown and my bridesmaids are wearing fuschia. Do you think this will look ok? I love my mother's gown, but I think it may not match. Wedding Date: 5/15/09

Posted by: Jo Ann from Turlock, Ca. on 8/18/2008 6:20:15 PM

I am mob and the bridesmaides colors are chocolate brown, (cranberry red and canary yellow are accent colors). I got a deep olive green tea length dress. I plan to wear off-white pearls (with green pearls mixed in)-necklace and earrings! The heels are what I am struggling about. Should they be died the same color as the dress or should I get a color that blends with the dress but is not the same color. Can you suggest a color for me? Wedding Date: 09/13/08

Posted by: sheryl from staten island n.y. on 7/19/2008 8:29:24 PM

I am the mob and was wondering if wearing a dark brown gown would be appropriate if the bridesmaids are wearing a copper color gowns. thank you for your reponse. Wedding Date: november 2008

Posted by: DLS from Maine on 7/15/2008 4:10:32 PM

I am the mog. The bride is wearing a gown and no vail, the groom, tan dress pants, shirt and tie, no jacket. Outside at the coast in a covered chapel. No mob, what should I wear. Semiformal? Casual? Help!!!!!!!!!!! Should I go with the color scheme of the dads, which is chocolate pants and ??? Wedding Date: 10/9/8

Posted by: TR from s.c. on 7/1/2008 1:05:37 PM

the bride has chosen blue velvet for the bridemaids with silver shoes. The groom and the groomen are wearing Black. What color should the mother of the bride wear? Wedding Date: 083008

Posted by: Steph's Mom from Nashville on 6/24/2008 2:59:08 PM

My daughter says it is Semi-Formal on 8/8/08 at 7:00pm. Her Colors are Black & Hot Pink! I was going to wear Black! Does it seem like her funeral???? maybe Any suggestions....I like one of the previous suggestions Wedding Date: 8/8/08

Posted by: Lea from Clearwater FL on 6/14/2008 11:55:10 AM

The wedding is at 11:30 am outdoors at a gazebo. The MOB is wearing black capris and a Tommy Bahama shirt in black and white. The bridesmaids are in black, tea lenth dresses. The bride's gown is formal, the groom is wearing a tux. I am baffled....Is a casual black and white dress appropriate? Should I follow the MOB and wear capris and a pretty top? Wedding Date: August

Posted by: TDS from Royal, AR on 6/4/2008 12:19:48 PM

I'm the mob and I have no idea what to wear. The bridesmaids are wearing white and platinum gray (tea length)with accent color turquois blue, groomsmen in black tux. The mog has a gray 2 piece suite. What should I look for? The wedding is at 3 o'clock, it's a semi-formal wedding. Wedding Date: July 12, 2008

Posted by: Rosie from Fremont, CA on 6/2/2008 4:23:46 PM

I am MOG. Wedding is in AZ at a country club at 4pm. Bride and bridesmaids are wearing yellow, not sure what MOB is wearing as yet. I have olive skin and the yellows look terrible on me. I hate to see everything be pale colors as the pictures won't have any life in them, Can you suggest color and type of outfit to wear. I have never been to this type of wedding so I am caught at a disadvantage. Thanks Wedding Date: Oct 3, 2008

Posted by: k.a. from woodstock,ga on 5/22/2008 12:09:43 AM

i am step-mom of bride. colors of bridemaid dresses is fuschia. mob is wearing latte, mog is wearing navy. what should i wear Wedding Date: july 12, 2008

Posted by: Km from millerton,ny on 5/15/2008 4:22:44 PM

I need to know if I should wait to buy my dress (as I am the mother of groom) until the brides mother chooses hers, I have talked to other mothers and they said NOT to wear anything that matches with the mother of the bride or the wedding but she can I feel like the groom means nothing all aobut the bride, when I got married we did not care what either wore just as long as it was not "white" but it could be cream or a bit darker than cream and it should not be long (calf length) ok. I need help in this matter. My boss sent me a beautiful dress from Arizonia and it ended up being cream knee length, I also do not want to hurt her feelings so what should I do? only 5 weeks away, should I wait till the last minute until she makes up her mind? I need help quick!! Wedding Date: 6/28/2008

Posted by: M. Adkins from Panama City, FL on 4/26/2007 6:44:25 AM

My daughter is being married at the garden club in the early evening. Her colors are Fushia and Black, she does not want me to wear black. I am very heavy and would like something that would complement me instead of bringing out my size. I have medical conditions that keep me from wearing heels and need something I can keep my balance and look nice. She wants me to wear Sage green with fushia our something like that. Wedding Date: June 9, 2007

Posted by: Tami from Central Coast, Ca on 4/22/2007 1:55:02 PM

I am the MOG, bridesmaids dresses are red, son said semi formal. 1:00 wedding in a mission. I am lost as what to wear, HELP! If it is not shorts or capris, I am lost. Wedding Date: July 2007

Posted by: MM from San Diego, CA on 4/10/2007 5:16:43 PM

I am MOG. Wedding is 5:00 p.m. Bride is wearing a long champagne dress, men are wearing tuxes including my husband. MOB is also maid of honor. She and bridesmaids are wearing tea-length dresses. Can I wear a long dress? I have found one I love in beige. I'm afraid the look will be destroyed if it is cut to tea-length. Should I look for a tea length dress or can my dress be long? Any comments? Wedding Date: June 2007

Posted by: Tawna from Sacramento, Ca on 3/19/2007 9:27:39 PM

Is Ivory to close to white for mother of the groom? Wedding Date: 7-14-2007

Posted by: AMSW from MA on 2/21/2007 5:48:35 PM

I am the mother of the groom. Bridesmaids are wearing espresso brown and mother of the bride is wearing cafe'. Accent color is orange for flowers. Green is not my color, the bride is wearing ivory so I do not want to wear champagne and I have been asked not to wear blue. Any suggestions will be appreciated. Wedding Date: July 2007

Posted by: Beverly from Petaluma, Ca on 11/9/2005 6:11:25 PM

the wedding is in the brides mothers yard, so we will be outside all day, what I want to know is what type of outfit should I wear, I'm the mother of the groom. She has a very fancy yard...... beverly104@hotmail.com Thank you Beverly Wedding Date: June 3rd 2006

Posted by: JW from Atlanta on 10/27/2005 12:57:03 PM

Belinda, You can absolutely where black to the rehearsal dinner! All of this talk about black not being appropriate is really a little silly. Rumors about women in black were, I'm sure, started because the woman wearing the black dress also acted sullen, ugly, unhappy or had otherwise acted in a way that sugested she was not happy with the union. If you want to wear black, wear it. Just make sure that your outfit and your smile suggest that you are attending a joyful celebration! (In other words, no black veils or mournful weeping.) If you are still worried about wearing black, be sure to put on some beautiful colored-stone or other sparkly jewelry, wear your party shoes and carry a fun purse! Wedding Date: June 06

Posted by: Belinda from St. Petersburg, Florida on 10/26/2005 8:46:02 PM

I was wondering if it would be ok to wear a black dress to the rehearsal dinner! I know for a fact, that black is not appropriate to wear to the wedding, but what about the rehearsal dinner? I am the mother of the groom, 48, and am hosting it at a fine hotel, for about 40 guests. The last thing I want is to be ridiculed for wearing black, but saw a lovely black dress today and bought it. Any advice is greatly appreciated. Wedding Date: 02/18/06

Posted by: Pat from Miami, Florida on 10/22/2005 10:03:11 PM

I am the mother of the groom living in Miami. Wedding is to be held next October in Cape Cod, will be semi-formal at 5PM. Bridesmaid colors will be chocolate brown and raspbery. In addition to not knowing if I will be able to find something warm enough to wear, I have no idea what the styles are for fall weddings up north. Any suggestions? Wedding Date: October 2006

Posted by: Carol Tiernan from Des Moines, Iowa on 9/18/2005 2:50:43 PM

I am a very YOUNG 50yr. old, MOTHER of the GROOM (my oldest son) I am 5'9" 134lb. women. My son is marrying into a somewhat wealthy family and so deserves to be nothing but proud of his family. I am freaking out, as to what to wear to BOTH a Rehearsal Dinner and to the Wedding. IOWA-June HOT day/cool evening weather. The Rehearsal Dinner is at a very Elite Location, the wedding is at the most Beautiful Church in Des Moines,Ia. and the Reception is an OUTDOOR Reception at the Brides Parents Home. Her colors are CELERY so I'm sure any soft or Pastel Color would be fine....No. 1...is it inappropriate to wear different attire to Church & Reception? I was thinking along the lines of an outfit to include a Formal Skirt, cami, jacket and maybe slacks to change into at the Outdoor Reception. Is that acceptable? and what do you suggest? THANKS.Carol Wedding Date: June 26th 2006

Posted by: Ana from Miami,FL on 9/16/2005 4:46:15 PM

My wedding will be on April 23, 2006. My wedding color will be Silver. It will be Cinderella Theme. My dress is Ivory w/ silver sequins, my bridesmaids dresses' are silver as well as the decor. The flowers will be with pink tones, probably orchids. The mothers would like to wear Silver as well. Do you think it might be too much? Too pale? Is the color nice for Spring? Please give me suggestions. Wedding Date: April 23,2006

Posted by: Jennifer from LHC, AZ on 8/23/2005 11:48:07 PM

My colors are light pink, ivory and black. my future mother-in-law bought a blue dress to wear and i said that she would stand out in pictures. she took it the wrong way and is now mad at me. whos at fault here? Wedding Date: 10-1-05

Posted by: Michelle from Lexington, KY. on 8/23/2005 10:18:00 PM

My bridesmaids will be in a fall burgandy color, and my dad's tie and vest will be black on black. What color should the mother of the bride wear??? Wedding Date: 9/16/06

Posted by: Maggie from Orlando, FL on 8/2/2005 1:07:46 AM

I am the MOG at an afternoon outdoor wedding. I had planned on wearing a very dressy suit, possibly with some embroidery on the jacket. However, the MOB is wearing a floor length gown with spaghetti straps in taupe, shot with gold for a "shimmery" look. The bride will have a single attendant, also in a long dress. Both the bride and her mom have told me to wear whatever I feel comfortable in. I really feel a long gown is not appropriate for this time of day, but I don't want to appear out of place either. What would you suggest? Wedding Date: Sept 17

Posted by: Sadina Phillips from Lathrop on 7/25/2005 12:23:18 PM

I was wondering if it is Ok for my soon to be mother-in-law, my godmother, and my grandma to wear the same dress at the wedding? Wedding Date: August 13, 2005

Posted by: Lynn from Chicago, IL on 7/23/2005 5:06:24 PM

HELP!! I am a 56 yr. old plus size bride. I am getting married on a beach at sunset next May. Beach wedding sites are geared to young women. A sarong on my would really be a site to behold!!! I was thinking more of an ivory chiffon pant suit. I will have wedding flip flops on. Any other suggestions? Thank you. Lynn Wedding Date: May 16, 2006

Posted by: barb from las vegas, nv on 7/8/2005 12:41:27 PM

I am the mother of the groom . the wedding will be in Portland Or. and is an outdoor evening wedding. The weather should be clear and warm or hot I would rate it as a semi-formal affair (based on what the bridesmaids are wearing. Can you give me some guidelines as to what to wear. Are floral prints out of the question? Could/should I wear a similar color as the mother of the bride? Wedding Date: Aug 13, 2005

Posted by: pa from uk on 7/8/2005 12:07:19 PM

Lei, sorry i wasnt trying to be funny (or rather i was) Im sure everyone is really grateful for your advice, its just im getting paranoid now about what to wear as im sure lots of other MOBs are, i think its more stressful than finding the bridal gown! keep up the good work regards Wedding Date: 03/10/06

Posted by: Lei Lydle, Editor from on 7/7/2005 11:21:28 AM

Dear PA from UK, You can certainly wear whatever you wish to your daughter's wedding. This article is just here to give guidelines to the mothers. I know from planning my own wedding and others that the mothers really want to look great on this special day for their children but they often don't know what to wear since they aren't really a part of the wedding party with a specific dress selected by the bride. I don't know what the traditions are in the UK but these suggestions are based on tradition and social etiquette in the US - I would think that they are the same or at least very similar in the UK. My best advice to mothers is this - to avoid gossip I would not wear white or black. Although both have become more socially accepted for formal evening attire, they STILL to this day, evoke gossip. White - the mother is trying to "be the bride" or "outdo the bride". Black - the mother is unhappy with the union and is wearing black in mourning. I KNOW it seems crazy silly but I witnessed this at a wedding this year! So if you can't wear white and you can't wear black, what colors can you wear? Any color! You really do not have to coordinate with the wedding party at all if you don't want to. It is nice to try and coordinate but I would suggest you find a dress that looks fabulous on you and go with it! Good luck to all! ~ Lei

Posted by: pa from uk on 7/6/2005 5:20:53 PM

i think i shall go naked to my duaghters wedding at least i wont offend anyone by wearing the wrong colour , does it really matter so long as we all have a great day! Wedding Date: 03/10/06

Posted by: amy from Norman, OK on 6/27/2005 1:50:50 PM

Replying to Mary from Los Angeles,CA regarding shoes and gown color for Maid of Honor. I think a pewter (dark silver) color on your Maid of Honor would look great with the burgundy on your brides maids and your brides maids could wear pewter colored strappy sandals with a little heel to add some formality to the look. Although you mentioned not wanting black shoes on the girls as the matron of honor in my friends wedding I wore black strappy sandals with a burgundy gown and it looked really nice.

Posted by: Amy from Oklahoma on 6/27/2005 1:38:22 PM

Replying to Sandi from PA regarding another color other than blue. I think if the mother or the bride is wearing navy you could go with something in the silver family. There are many metallic colored gowns out there today and silver and navy are very commplimentary.

Posted by: Kim from PA on 6/22/2005 11:35:07 AM

Are you sure that as mother of the groom----no white no way n9 no no---just give it up????? Can you still find someone to dye a 100% polyester????? HELP!!!!!!!! Wedding Date: 01/07/2005

Posted by: Cheryl from Boston on 6/14/2005 5:23:15 PM

I am mother of the groom and have picked out a light pink dress that has spaghetti string top. The brides mother is wearing a tourques dress. Someone told me that a dress with spaghetti straps is not appropriate is this true. It is a August wedding in Ma. will be hot. Thanks Wedding Date: aug 2005

Posted by: Mary from Los Angeles,CA on 6/6/2005 5:47:02 PM

My bridesmaids dress color is burgandy and we are having a hard time finding some nice shoes to match with it. We don't want white, black or burgandy shoes either. Any suggestions?? What is a good dress color for the Matron of Honor to wear when my color scheme is burgandy? Wedding Date: 12/05

Posted by: Marie from New York on 5/27/2005 11:11:01 AM

Our children are having a formal, black and white wedding where the bridesmaids will wear black gowns. In our family, we have two mothers of the groom; I am the stepmother. What would be the most appropriate color to wear? The mother of the bride may wear black. Wedding Date: March

Posted by: Kim from Kansas on 5/13/2005 5:17:20 PM

I am wearing an ivory wedding dress and my bridesmaids are wearing lavender dresses. What color should the mothers wear?

Posted by: HBS from Mentor, OH on 5/13/2005 8:11:28 AM

My dress is ivory, the bridesmaid are lilac. My mom got a burgundy/plum color floor length dress. What color and length would be appropriate for the mother of the groom? Wedding Date: 09/24/05

Posted by: pc from Basking Ridge NJ on 5/6/2005 11:08:00 AM

I am trying to find a gown as the mother of the groom for my son's wedding. The mother of the bride is wearing a gown (possibly tea length or full length) in ivory with some champagne flowers. I selected a stone beige gown with a tint of almost light dusty rose. The mother of the bride asked that I go look for another color and gown. Our gowns style-wise were very different - my was very tailored and hers has some tiers. The wedding party is bride in white, groom in black tux, seven attendants in kiwi green and the maid of honor in yellow. Grandmother in sage green. I chose not to add another color i.e. lavender to avoid looking like the colors of Easter eggs. I now have chosen a silver gown with satin top and crepe bottom. Is that appropriate? Etiquette is supposed to be that the mother of the groom complement the color of the mother of the bride's gown. Since I am asked to avoid anything in the beige/tan family, etc. I thought silver would be complementary and subtle. Your opinion and/or suggestions? thanks much, pc Wedding Date: June 18, 2005

Posted by: Sandi from PA on 4/18/2005 9:13:20 PM

I am the Mother of the Groom and am unsure as to what color dress I should wear. Girls in the wedding are wearing latte. Mother of the Bride is wearing navy. Should I choose a darker color to coordinate with MOB's dress or would it be ok to wear something lighter? Salespersons in 2 different shops think I should wear blue and think anything from powder blue to dark periwinkle. Bride also said she thought I would look good in blue. If not blue, then do you have any suggestions for other colors? Flowers are to be in fall colors. Wedding Date: October 2005

Posted by: J D from Marrero, Louisiana on 4/16/2005 2:08:31 PM

First and foremost I 'm interested in finding out if it is approperiate for the Bride's Step-Mom to wear a corsage. The Wedding is in a house , the brides dress is white. Her moms two piece suit is a long skirt and jacket and the color is taupe. Is it necessary for the skirt to be cut or leave it long. The two Bride's maid are wearing black Dressy dresses. The colors for the Wedding are Silver and Black. We will check with the groom's mom to see what color she should wear. The Wedding is taking place at 6:p.m. I would truly like to know if it would be necessary for me to cut the skirt ot leave it alone. The suit is not over powering the bride it is a simple line with a rinestone button on the jacket. I am waiting for your response. and thank you very much. Wedding Date: October 22, 2005

Posted by: Lei Lydle, Editor from on 4/13/2005 3:48:10 PM

For Brides and Mothers in the Atlanta area: ROSWELL, GA- April 13, 2005- Following their January, 29th opening amidst the snow and ice, Treasures Formals & Bridal has experienced great success during their first bridal and prom season. To celebrate, Treasures Formals & Bridal is hosting a Grand Opening Celebration on Monday April 18th from 10AM to 8 PM at 880 Holcomb Bridge Road Suite 180B in Roswell. The ribbon cutting ceremony is to take place at 1 PM and include Mayor Jere Wood and the North Fulton Chamber of Commerce. Refreshments will be served following the ribbon cutting. Models will bring some of the latest fashions to life, a perfect opportunity for brides to view our spring bridal collection. The Mother of the Wedding trunk show during the Grand Opening supplies the great demand for choices and variety in mother of the wedding gowns. The trunk show will run Thursday April 14th thru Saturday April 24th. Treasures will award gift certificates for bridal and prom dresses to winners that have registered online or in-store. Also, a drawing from those who have registered will be held for various prizes from other surrounding businesses.

Posted by: NELLIE from INDIANA on 4/10/2005 10:20:51 PM

THE BRIDESMAIDS ARE WEARING ROYAL BLUE. WHAT COLOR SHOULD THE GROOMS MOTHER WEAR. I THINK THE BRIDES MOTHER IS WEARING ROYAL. SHOULD WE? IF NOT WHAT COLORS. Wedding Date: OCTOBER

Posted by: Debbie Duren from Guyton, Georgia on 3/14/2005 3:52:40 PM

My son is getting married on June 18th. The wedding is formal at 3:00 in the afternoon. My son is wearing a tuxedo and my future daughter-in-law is wearing a white figure hugging gown. The bridesmaids are wearing periwinkle blue. Her mom is wearing a rose colored, middle of the calf, dress. Any suggestions for me as far as color and type of dress? Wedding Date: June 18, 2005

Posted by: Jana from Brea, CA on 3/12/2005 12:47:39 PM

I am the MOB and am a pretty tall and large woman – 5'10" and a size 18. My daughter is planning an informal afternoon wedding with a swing band and dancing at the reception (my husband and I are not so good at this kind of dancing). My daughter will probably wear something flowy and vintage-looking, perhaps with a handkerchief hemline. My husband owns a conservative wool tux and will most likely wear it. I am looking for suggestions for appropriate attire that allows me to move, but also minimizes my size. The MOG is maybe 5'1" if she is lucky, a size 4 and a former Denver Broncos cheerleader! I already know not to wear green because I don’t want to look like Shrek standing next to her. PLEASE HELP! Wedding Date: April 2006

Posted by: Suzanne from San Diego CA on 3/11/2005 11:12:35 PM

My son is getting married in York, England the wedding is in the afternoon. The bridesmade are wearing a silver/grey. Are the customs over there different than here. The wedding is formal. I was thinking of wearing a long black skirt with silver beaded top. Do I need a hat? I heard from a family member of the brides that she was hat shopping she is an elderly aunt but does that mean I should wear one also? Are there any customs I need to adhere too? Wedding Date: 4/29/05

Posted by: CHARLOTTE from LULING, TEXAS on 3/9/2005 12:36:17 PM

SHOULD THE BRIDE'S MOTHER WEAR RED? Wedding Date: 4/2/2005

Posted by: Lei Lydle, Editor from on 3/9/2005 9:21:02 AM

Wow - lots or questions! Please know that I get hundreds of questions every week and sometimes I can't answer them all! Let's see... For the stepmothers: You are under no obligation or requirements to coordinate or match with the wedding party. (Mothers aren't either for that matter.) First, ask the bride if she has any particular color in mind for you. If she says "no" then just find a dress that makes you feel fabulous - any color will do! For Marsha with the red and white wedding where dads are wearing tuxes: It is not uncommon for the dads to wear tuxes even if the wedding isn't a formal wedding. The father of the bride wears the tux because he is essentially a part of the wedding party - he walks the bride down the aisle. If you feel uncomfortable wearing something less formal when he is in a tux - go ahead and wear something a little more formal. It is definitely better to be overdressed than underdressed! Again, just find a color that makes you feel fabulous. You have no obligation to really match or coordinate with the wedding party. Good luck! ~ Lei

Posted by: marsha from st louis mo on 3/5/2005 2:43:32 PM

My daughter is having a 2:30 wedding. The wedding colors are red and white with the maid of honor in red. My daughter and her fiance' have asked the fathers to wear tuxes. What would be an appropriate dress color for me since the small, semi-formal wedding is in the early afternoon, yet my husband is wearing a tux. Wedding Date: 4 Jun 05

Posted by: Marsha Perry from Atlanta, GA on 2/20/2005 11:33:00 AM

Dito same comment: As the step-mother of the bride who has a pretty good relationship with the bride, what do I wear? It is an afternoon wedding. Should I coordinate with the MOB or just coordinate with the wedding colors? Wedding Date: July Wedding Date: July 16, 2005

Posted by: NM from New York State on 2/19/2005 5:32:00 PM

I'm the mother of the groom in a destination beach wedding in Key Largo. I'm looking for a dress that's tea length, somewhat informal. The bride's mom has selected a georgette dress in teal. I have fair skin and white hair. Any suggestions for color and dress resources would be greatly appreciated. The kids had first suggested sundresses, but I don't think that's happening, since the bride's mom's dress sounds somewhat more dressy. The maid of honor is thinking about pink for her dress. Thanks! Wedding Date: April 2005

Posted by: NG from TN on 1/31/2005 3:05:33 PM

As the step-mother of the bride who has a pretty good relationship with the bride, what do I wear? It is an evening wedding. Should I coordinate with the MOB or just coordinate with the wedding colors? Wedding Date: Late summer

Posted by: MP from on 1/21/2005 12:31:37 AM

The bride is wearing ivory, the mother of the bride is wearing champange with ivory embrodiery. The grandmother of the bride has already picked her dress - taupe. The bridesmaids are wearing black with ivory trim. Now the mother of the groom is told she can go ahead and pick her dress. Any suggestions on color? Wedding Date: May

Posted by: BJH from Atlanta, Ga on 1/4/2005 4:41:50 PM

My daughter's colors are Black and Silver. Bridesmaids are wearing Silver. Based on your comments, I should not wear either color! Help...I am escorting her down the aisle! Wedding Date: 4/30

Posted by: supergirl from Atlanta on 12/6/2004 8:27:01 PM

I am thinking of using either the traditional white and deep red or I might use a dark blue with white. Do gold or silver accents go with this theme? I still haven't decided yet so I'm just looking around. I'm having a summer wedding. What colours should the mothers wear? We have limited time so I want them to get something that flows with the overall theme. Thanks for any advise you can give. Wedding Date: June 4, 2005

Posted by: AM from Chicago on 11/26/2004 3:41:55 PM

My wedding dress is a silver floor length gown. I will be having my two teenage daughters as bridesmaids wearing lavender. What colors would coordinate for the MOB and MOG? Wedding Date: April 2005

Posted by: Anne from Farmington, Michigan on 11/20/2004 7:04:05 PM

Ok, AGAIN on the subject of the mother of the groom wearing black. The bridesmaids are in periwinkle, the mother of the bride plans on wearing a dark violet (I think) suit with a jacket and long skirt. I have seen a dress which is black, beaded, but quite a straight look to it. It would come well below my knees. It is a beautiful dress, can be worn again, and I was thinking perhaps I could use a stole or scarf in bright pink for the ceremony. I find most dresses that are shown for the mothers look too dowdy. So am I terrible to wear black, or do you see other mothers in black dresses these days? Wedding Date: July, 2005

Posted by: eml from new york, new york on 11/10/2004 1:45:50 PM

I'm getting married in Bath, England in April 2005. My dress is a very simple Anne Barge dress, ivory colored with an empire waist. the bridesmaid dresses are simple dusty wine color aline dresses at tea length. my mom bought her dress and she picked a mageneta spagetti strap dress, floor length with a matching shawl. she looked stunning with the dress on, and she bought it. final sale. but now we've been reading that perhaps this a bad color. maybe too bright. she's definately brighter than the bridesmaid, but not so out of scheme with the style of the dresses. any advice? you have a lovely site, i wish i saw this sooner. Wedding Date: april 30th

Posted by: Arnella from Butler, Pa on 11/3/2004 8:46:31 PM

Hi Amanda, Having both mothers wear taupe is fine as long as it's not the same dress! Different shades of beige would actually even be better - champagne, stone, taupe, etc., as long as it suits their skin-tone and they look good in those colors. You want them to look good in whatever color compliments the wedding party. Arnella's Bridal

Posted by: Arnella from Butler, PA on 11/3/2004 8:42:08 PM

Hi Kim & Barbara, I own a bridal shop and see this type of situation ALL the time. Kim - Other colors that would go with navy and dusty rose would be light or medium blue, silver, gray, taupe, champagne, mint green, sage green, beige. You have quite a few choices. Barbara - Jade mothers gowns by Jasmine has the color banana. Good luck! Arnella's Bridal

Posted by: Kim from belleville on 10/13/2004 2:55:07 PM

My son is getting married in May. He hasnt told me anything about the wedding except when it is. Today (oct 13 2004) my son's fiance told me that her bridesmaids are wearing navy blue and her mother is wearing a dusty rose long gown with jacket. I asked her what color she wanted me to wear and she said she didnt know but I had two weeks to pick something and let her know. Because she wants to order her flowers. I feel overwelmed about the short notice. Could you please tell me what color I should be wearing. Wedding Date: may 2005

Posted by: Barbara Cooper from Terre Haute, In on 9/22/2004 11:53:38 AM

this is just terrible designers should make yellow or my Daughter has Banana and periwinkle for her colors. and she wants me to be in the color Banana and I cannot find anyone who carry's those colors of dresses. and someone should do something about it. a long time ago I had the colors of purple and you did not see that color back in the 70's now you see that color for alot in wedddings. please help Wedding Date: June 5th 2005

Posted by: Amanda from Greenville, NC on 9/22/2004 9:36:03 AM

My color for the wedding is navy blue. Do you think it would be appropriate to have both of the mothers wear a taupe color? I am worried that choosing a lighter shade of blue (like baby blue) will not look right so I thought taupe would be safe and would photograph well. Please let me know! Wedding Date: November 6,2004

Posted by: SGP from Nashville, TN on 9/21/2004 5:27:48 PM

I am the stepmother of the bride. The bride has selected strapless tea-length sage green bridesmaid dresses; the wedding is at 4:00 pm. The MOB has just selected her dress--various shades of green also tea length; the MOG is wearing a floor-length yellow dress with jacket. Any suggestions for my attire? Thanks. Wedding Date: Oct. 9

Posted by: NN from Chattanooga, TN on 8/31/2004 2:54:43 PM

I picked out an ivory dress for my Mother, despite the snotty comments from the sales person in the store where we bought it. It looks great on her, she loves it, and I don't mind "sharing the spot light" with my Mom. Besides, I think it distinguishes her as the Mother of the Bride. I just think this whole thing about Mothers not wearing white or ivory (or even black) is non-sense. It's your wedding and your money. Worrying about what everyone else thinks takes away from enjoying your day. Wedding Date: 9/12/04

Posted by: AMW from Birmingham, AL on 8/23/2004 1:01:54 PM

My main color scheme for the wedding hall is going to be plum, mixed with different colored flowers. Our church does not need to be decorated because of it's natural beauty. I have put my bridesmaids in black and I have a white gown. Would it be alright for my mother and soon th be mother in law to go with a plum dress? They both look great in purples! Also, my fiance' is military, would it be odd if he wore his military dress uniform, and his groomsmen wear a normal black tux? Not everyone in his party is in the military so, we didn't want some of them to be in uniform and others in a tux. Thanks so much! Wedding Date: October 29, 2005

Posted by: Lei Lydle, Editor from on 8/20/2004 9:21:06 PM

Mothers should really wear a color that is complimentary to the wedding colors. In general mothers should not wear white, black or the same color as the bridesmaids. Mothers should also choose something that is complimentary to their own natural coloring. The mother of the bride and the mother of the groom do not have to wear the same color. Derrilyn: You might try off-white, taupe, tan, or coral or peach to go with the sage green. R. Brown: You also might try neutral colors, pink or maybe even a deep violet. Good luck! Lei

Posted by: R. Brown from Norristown, PA on 8/20/2004 1:04:07 PM

My daughter is getting married in March 2005. She will be wearing an off white dress, and her colors for the bridesmaid is a soft lavendar. She will have them wear silver shoes and diamond earrings. My question is what color should I and/or the grooms mother wear. I hear so many people say not to wear the same colors as the bridesmaid. Wedding Date: 3/19/05

Posted by: derrilyn from norfolk va on 7/28/2004 8:59:56 PM

my daughters colors are ivory and sage green is it ok if i wear a sage green outfit Wedding Date: 8/6/4

Posted by: Lei Lydle, Editor from on 7/19/2004 12:29:36 PM

Finding the right dress for the mother of the bride and the mother of the groom can be difficult but it shouldn't be! Here are the answers to some of the posted questions: To Kathy: In general the mother of the bride does NOT wear the same color as the bridesmaids. Instead the mother of the bride generally wears something that blends with the overall color scheme. However, if the bride really wants you to wear navy then you probably should make her happy. After all, it is her special day and everyone looks great in navy! To Pam: A pink rose suit sounds like it will coordinate with the wedding colors but be careful if your dress is very formal. It needs to be consistent with the formality of the wedding. To Stacie: Wearing black to the wedding is tricky, especially in the South. Be sure to get the brides OK before you wear black. Good luck to you all! ~ Lei

Posted by: Stacie from little Rock Ar on 7/16/2004 9:24:44 PM

My son s wedding is going to be burgeny and white . The dress I bought is black trim in white . Do you think thats ok? His girl friend said it was pretty. But is black ok? Wedding Date: Sept.25

Posted by: Pam from Ellsworth ks on 6/15/2004

I am the mother of the bride my daughters wedding colors are shades of pink and orange. I would like to wear a rose pink suit the suit is a desinger and rather fancy. do you think it is ok? Wedding Date: aug 28

Posted by: Kathy from Manteca, Ca. on 5/31/2004

My daughter is getting married in September in a nice garden wedding in Tahoe. Her wedding color is Navy blue. It's what she is coordinating the wedding around, ie...bridesmaid and matron of honor's dresses and decorations, etc... She feels that I should wear Navy blue in my choice of dress as well. I want something lighter. Is it necessary for the mother of the bride to coordinate dress colors to the wedding as well? Are there some kinds of guidelines for that? I would appreciate it if anyone could help me out! Thanks! Kathroon@hotmail.com Wedding Date: Sept. 23, 04

Posted by: Lei Lydle, Editor from this Site on 2/24/2004

Dear Phyllis, If your daughter loves the dress and you feel comfortable with it, then you should wear it and feel good about it. However I feel obligated to say this: think twice if the dress looks like it could be a wedding dress. I have been to so many weddings and every time the mother of the bride or the mother of the groom wears a white dress that remotely resembles a wedding dress - someone inevitably talks about the mother - "she thinks it is her wedding", "she wants to be the center of attention", etc. etc. I would hate for this to happen to you! Is there any chance the bridal store can order the same dress in more of a champagne color? Just a thought! Good luck in whatever you decide. Lei

Posted by: Phyllis from Swainsboro, Ga. on 2/21/2004

My daughter's wedding dress is candlelight. We went to a dress shop that sold "mother of the bride" dresses and she loves a dress that is not white, but a bit off white. It is a very formal, floor length dress with a jacket and some tiny embroidry around the jacket. It is a beautiful dress and she loves the color. It is definitely not stark white, but it is isnt beige either. In no way does it resemble the brides dress as it is made totally different. Is it appropriate to wear this? The ladies in the dress shop think it is appropriate to wear to the wedding. What do you think? Wedding Date: July 24 2004

Posted by: Lei Lydle, Editor from this Site on 1/27/2004

Dear Mary, Traditional wedding etiquette would dictate that the mothers are not supposed to wear white. However, the mother of the bride is not supposed to be the Maid/Matron of Honor either :-) so it sounds to me like your soon-to-be daughter-in-law is ok with going outside of the rules of traditional wedding etiquette - which is totally fine! The weddding should be the way the bride wants it! HOWEVER, you should definitely ask the bride, and be specific, if she wants you to wear white along with the others. Or ask her to suggest a color for your dress and see what she says. Good luck! Lei

Posted by: mary from beaumont texas on 1/26/2004

should the mother of the groom wear white if the wedding is an all-white wedding? the wedding is outside overlooking a harbor in maine. the bride is wearing white the bridesmaids are wearing white and the mother of the bride is wearing white beacause she is also the matron of honor Wedding Date: august 14,2004