Your daughter's wedding day is a truly momentous occasion, filled with love and joy. As the mother of the bride, you play a vital role in creating a beautiful narrative for this special day. You hold a place of absolute grace and honor, and your presence adds a touch of elegance to the celebration. As the mother of the bride/groom, you understand that you'll be in the spotlight too, so it's important to choose an outfit that makes you feel confident and showcases your best self. Take the time to carefully select an attire that is both appropriate for the wedding and highlights your unique style and beauty. This way, you'll not only look amazing but also feel amazing on this special day. When it comes to selecting your ensemble, there are several things to think about. You'll want to find an outfit that matches the wedding's theme and style, a trendy yet comfortable dress that allows you to shine among the other guests. It's all about finding that perfect balance between fashion and personal flair. You got it! It's important not to wait too long or stress yourself out as the big day approaches. Give yourself around six months to find the dress and plan for about three months for alterations. That way, you'll have plenty of time to explore different options and make sure the dress fits perfectly. Now, let's take a closer look at all the different aspects involved in choosing the perfect dress for this exciting milestone. Here are few ideas to share with you that will help make the process easier and more enjoyable.

Consider wedding theme

Since the bride is the star of the show at every wedding, it's only natural to seek her input on important matters, including your dress. As the Mother of the Bride, one of the easiest ways to choose a dress is to consider the wedding theme. It's important to align your dress choice with the color palette that the couple has chosen for their special day. By doing so, you'll ensure that your dress complements the overall aesthetic and adds to the beauty of the celebration.
If the bride is going for a classic white gown and her bridesmaids are wearing neutral and pastel dresses, as the mother of the bride, you could consider choosing a dress in darker neutral shades or similar pastel tones. This will create a harmonious and complementary look. On the other hand, if it's a formal black-tie wedding, you might want to opt for a more daring and glamorous dress. Sequin gowns can add that extra touch of sparkle and elegance to the occasion. It's all about finding a dress that aligns with the overall style and ambiance of the wedding.

Consider neckline and sleeves style

Picking the right neckline and sleeve length for your dress is crucial to enhance your overall look. These choices can truly accentuate your natural features and reflect your personal style. The neckline plays a significant role in highlighting specific areas of your body, so it's important to choose a style that exudes elegance and aligns with your general fashion preferences. Whether you opt for a strapless, sleeveless, or long-sleeve dress, it's essential to select a design that flatters your figure. If you prefer some coverage for your arms during certain parts of the ceremony or want to stay warm when needed, consider accessorizing with a beautiful shrug or shawl. This way, you can add a touch of style while achieving the desired level of comfort.
Remember, the ultimate goal is to find a dress that not only looks stunning but also makes you feel confident and beautiful. Experiment with different necklines and sleeve lengths to discover what suits you best. Don't be afraid to try something new and embrace your unique style. By paying attention to these details and finding the perfect dress, you'll be able to create a look that is both flattering and true to yourself.

Choose comfortable length

Choosing the perfect length for your dress is very important. First, think about how fancy the wedding is gonna be and where it's happening. For daytime weddings, you can't go wrong with light fabrics, shorter hemlines, and vibrant colors like floral patterns. They give off that fresh and playful vibe. Now, if the wedding is gonna be more formal and happening at night, you might wanna go for a full-length gown in a heavier fabric. Keep the patterns simple and elegant for that classy look. One key thing to remember is finding that sweet spot with the hemline. You don't want it too long or too short. For daytime weddings, knee-length dresses are usually a safe bet. But for afternoon and evening events, you can rock a tea-length dress or even go longer for that extra touch of sophistication. And don't forget about alterations! Make sure to get that dress hemline adjusted to the ideal length. And take into account the heel height of the shoes you'll be wearing on the big day. That way, you'll be strutting your stuff with confidence and style! Remember, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and fabulous in whatever length you choose. So go ahead and rock that dress, and have an amazing time at the wedding!

Consider Function

As the mother-of-the-bride or son, your role at the wedding is super busy! You'll be on your feet, taking care of guests, and constantly on the move. That's why it's crucial to choose a dress that can handle all that activity without getting wrinkled or messy. You'll want a dress that's practical, comfortable, and doesn't restrict your movements. Don't forget to wear proper shape-wear to support and smooth out any bumps, giving you a more toned look. Keep in mind the weather and any religious customs when picking your outfit. For example, a strapless dress might not be suitable for a church wedding, but it could be perfect for a more casual event. In winter, long gowns in heavy fabrics like velvet are great choices, while lace or chiffon would be better for a summer wedding. By considering these factors, you'll find a dress that allows you to rock your busy role while looking fabulous!

For Beach Wedding

Fnding a gown that's not too formal or cocktail-like can be a challenge. But don't worry, I've got you covered! This knee-length bodycon gown is ideal for sandy beaches, where comfort and functionality are key. Make sure to choose a dress with stretch and elastane for easy movement. A cap sleeve is a great addition to provide coverage and keep you cool under the summer sun. Consider using lace, mesh, or sheer chiffon for added formality. Natural fabrics like silk or cotton are perfect for breathability. If you want to add some interest, go for a printed fabric or textured jacquard or brocade. You'll look stunning without breaking the bank!

Fashion And Fit

When it comes to choosing your dress, remember that your personal style and preferences are just as important as the bride's! You want to find a dress that truly reflects your personality and taste. If you lean towards a more traditional or classic style, a long dress could be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you have a more contemporary or edgy fashion sense, a dress with a bit more flair, like a tea-length dress, might be perfect. The key is to find a dress that is both age-appropriate and fashionable, so you can look stylish without sacrificing comfort. Consider the silhouette, color, and pattern that will enhance your complexion and flatter your best features. And don't forget about alterations! Most dresses, unless custom-made, will require a few adjustments to ensure a perfect fit.

Choose Premium Fabrics

When choosing your outfit as the bride's mother, it's important to take the weather and venue into consideration. You want to be comfortable and appropriate for the occasion. Additionally, it's a great idea to select garments that don't wrinkle easily. Nobody wants to deal with constant creasing throughout the day! Keep in mind that synthetic textiles can make you perspire more, so it's good to be mindful of fabric choices. You can use a fabric qualities guide to help you make the best decision.

Touch Of Sparkle

Adding some sparkle to your dress can give it a formal and glamorous touch, but it's important not to go overboard with beads and sequins. Keeping the dress shape simple is the way to go. Let that extravagant fabric shine! A fit and flare or column style gown that shows off your figure and hugs your curves is a beautiful choice for adding a touch of bling. Remember, the fuller the skirt, the more fabric needed, which means a higher price tag and a heavier gown. To complete the shimmery look, go for a V neckline. It's one of the most flattering designs and works well for medium to larger busts. If you have a smaller bust, a contemporary and classy square neckline will look stunning and modern. And if you want some extra coverage, consider an elbow-length angel sleeve for a touch of drama and sophistication.

Flowy, Formal And Fabulous

Polka Dots And Tulle

Who says weddings have to be all about lace and sequins? You can totally rock a simple yet elegant look with a beautiful fabric and cut. A tea-length gown is a great choice because it works for all heights and body shapes, plus it fits various wedding themes. Choose a soft fabric like satin crepe, silk faille, or stretch silk for that dreamy and flowy skirt. To add a modern twist, go for sheer patterned overlays or tulle overlays. Our favorite is this stunning polka dot tulle! It's soft, sheer, and can be used as an overlay on any skirt or gown, or even as sleeves. Instead of heavy beads and pearls, this polka dot look is a more affordable and lightweight alternative. For a touch of formality, consider adding a luxurious silk satin band or belt around the waistline, or a statement bow at the back of the gown for some fun and uniqueness.

Avoid Bbeing Too Sexy

It's important to keep the focus on the bride and not steal the spotlight with our outfits. To ensure that, it's best to avoid showing too much skin or wearing excessively short clothes. It's also a good idea to choose a dress that is not too form-fitting, as it may attract attention and lead to comments that could be seen as inappropriate for the event.

Avoid anything too flashy

It's totally fine to wear colorful outfits, but it's best to avoid anything that's too flashy or garish. I wouldn't recommend going for dresses in blazing red, neon pink, or neon yellow. If you still want to rock bold hues, a multicolored dress would be a fantastic choice, especially for a summer wedding. It'll add a vibrant touch without being too overpowering. You'll look stunning and stylish!

Hair and accessories

When it comes to completing your look, don't forget about the little details that can make a big difference! Pay close attention to your hair, makeup, and accessories to add those final touches to your ensemble. Your makeup and hairstyle should complement the colors and features of your dress, creating a cohesive and polished look. To achieve sophistication and elegance, make sure to balance out your dress with the right accessories. A general rule of thumb is to pair bold and flashy jewelry with simple dresses, while opting for more understated accessories with dresses that have intricate details. It's also important to consider the formality of the event when selecting your jewelry. Keep your overall look classic and uncluttered, allowing you to shine as the host without overwhelming your outfit. By choosing the right accessories, you'll be able to enhance your overall look and make a stylish statement at the wedding!

Ready to buy?

If you're on the hunt for a wide range of mother of the bride/son looks, you've got to check out When Freddie met Lilly! WFML has an incredible selection of dresses that are just perfect for the occasion. We offer a variety of styles, lengths, fabrics, and design features, so you'll definitely find something that suits your taste. The coolest thing is that we offer custom-made dresses! You can have a dress created just for you, tailored to your exact preferences and measurements. How amazing is that? You'll have a one-of-a-kind dress that fits you perfectly and reflects your personal style. At When Freddie met Lilly, we understand the importance of finding the perfect dress for mothers on their child's special day. That's why we offer a stunning collection of Mother of the Bride dresses tailored to your desires and preferences. Whether you're looking for elegant formal dresses with sleeves or glamorous floor-length gowns, we have an extensive selection to choose from. Our range is limitless, ensuring that you'll find the dress that makes you feel confident and beautiful. So, go ahead and embrace the opportunity to have a dress that's truly unique and made just for you at When Freddie met Lilly!

What to wear to a wedding as a mother of bride?

Before you start shopping for your dress, it's important to have a conversation with the bride. Nowadays, couples have more flexibility in choosing wedding attire. The bride will likely have specific preferences regarding color, style, and formality. By following her cues, you can narrow down your options and ensure that you fit in with the wedding party. In the past, it was considered inappropriate to wear white (to avoid clashing with the bride), black (associated with mourning), or red (seen as too flashy). However, these rules have relaxed, and it's now acceptable as long as you have the bride's approval.

Choose the perfect color that looks best on you

When it comes to picking the perfect dress, color plays a crucial role in making you shine! It's all about finding the right shades that complement your complexion and hair color. Instead of going for black or grey, you can try alternatives like midnight blue or dark charcoal, and champagne or silver instead of white. If you're into bold hues but don't want to attract too much attention, go for darker or lighter versions like deep burgundy or soft rose instead of bright red. It's all about finding the colors that make you feel confident and fabulous!