MOTHER OF THE BRIDE(OR GROOM) STYLE
Elegance is key when it comes to choosing a wedding day outfit as the mother of the bride (or groom).
Follow MANNING CARETLL’s lead with classic pieces that look the part.
If you’re the mother of the bride (MOTB) or mother of the groom (MOTG) at upcoming nuptials – congratulations!
Weddings are a special day for all involved. And choosing the right outfit is one part of ensuring celebrations go smoothly.
When it comes to wedding guest style, the most important rule is to follow the couples’ lead. You will be able to tell a lot about the theme and style of the occasion based on the invitation, dress code and location. And if you’re in the wedding party or a parent to the bride or groom, you will have insider access to their preferences. Finding a dress that makes everyone feel happy is the key to nailing mother of the bride (or groom) style.
Like many wedding day traditions, choosing an outfit as the mother of the bride has long been shaped by expectation. Today, those rules feel far more flexible. As modern brides embrace minimalist gowns and relaxed celebrations, mothers are moving away from overly matronly styles in favour of refined, contemporary silhouettes that feel elegant and authentic.
So, what does this mean in practice? There’s no single rule when it comes to colour. Traditionally, mothers avoided white, ivory, or anything too close to the bridal gown. Now, sophisticated tones such as navy, champagne, soft pastels, or even bold hues are all appropriate choices. The key is to coordinate with the bridal party and overall wedding palette. If your daughter has requested a particular colour or silhouette, respecting her vision is always a thoughtful gesture.
What should the Mother Of The Bride or Groom Wear?
As wedding etiquette evolves, outfits for the mother of the bride (MOTB) and mother of the groom (MOTG) are far less restrictive. The most important factor is choosing something you feel confident and comfortable in - without defaulting to overly conservative or muted options.
Start with the dress code. For a black-tie wedding, a floor-length gown styled with considered accessories will feel appropriate and polished. For cocktail, beach, or garden-party celebrations, a midi dress, a refined pop of colour, or even a subtle print can work beautifully.
The wedding’s formality and the couple’s personal style should guide your choice. Longer hemlines are often preferred, a graceful midi can feel just as appropriate as a maxi depending on the silhouette and detailing. If you opt for trousers, balance structure with softness through a fluid blouse or delicate design elements. Feminine finishes such as lace, embroidery, or subtle ruffles can add dimension while maintaining elegance.
More things to consider when styling your outfit:
Let the bride lead
The bride is the best guide when it comes to working out what to wear. If she has a strong feeling towards colour, cut or length, make sure you have a conversation about what you would like to wear. Finding an outfit that makes you both feel comfortable will be the obvious choice. Consider any cultural or religious requirements too, especially if they differ from your own background.
Incorporate colour from the decor
While you don’t want to match the decor exactly, the wedding colour scheme can help guide outfit choices for guests and family members. For example, if there is a strong penchant for soft pinks or pastel hues, this is a good starting point for planning. It's probably best to steer clear of anything too bold or bright as not to take the spotlight off the happy couple in photos or on the day – but again, they can help guide your choice. Think about your hair and skin colour within the chosen palette and find the right shade so don’t want to look washed-out.
Consider the venue
As with any event, considering the venue and the plan for the day is important when it comes to getting dressed. Shoes are always a topic of debate because you want something stylish but comfortable. If the ceremony is at a church or religious venue, you should dress accordingly (usually it's best to cover your shoulders and think about the length of your hem). For outside occasions, make sure you take sun protection into consideration. A lovely wrap or even a hat can be both fashionable and functional additions to your outfit.
Communicate your choice
Traditionally the MOTB chooses her dress first and then shares this with the MOTG so that she can plan accordingly. All family dynamics are different but it can be fun to gather together for a day of shopping and to find outfits that everyone feels comfortable in. Making a choice a few months before the wedding day gives the chance for any tailoring or alterations, as well as the opportunity to find the right accessories.
Remember the glam
While you don’t want to outshine the bride, it is important to still dress the part. Hair and makeup is an important part of the whole look (especially when it comes to photos) but jewellery and accessories make an impact to. You might choose to wear something sentimental (a pair of earrings from your own wedding, the shoes you and your daughter bought on holiday etc.) or you might see this outfit as an opportunity to collect items that could one day be passed along.
Like any special occasion, the key to looking your best is remembering to relax and enjoy the day.
MANNING CARTELL’s signature pieces exude elegance and offer a modern sense of style.