What Should the Mother of the Groom Wear on the Big Day?

Key fashion points:

• The mother of the groom should choose an outfit that complements the wedding's theme, color scheme, and formality while adhering to modern dress etiquette.
• Options range from classic neutrals to bold jewel tones, including elegant black, with a focus on coordination rather than matching the bride's mother or bridal party.

The mother of the groom holds a pivotal role on the wedding day, her presence and attire are as significant as any other detail. But what should the mother of the groom wear to honor this special occasion? Let’s delve into dress etiquette, colors, and style tips to ensure she looks elegant and feels confident, knowing that her role is essential to the day's success.

Understanding Mother of the Groom Etiquette

When deciding what to wear, the mother of the groom should always coordinate with the bride’s mother and the bridal party to complement the overall wedding style. Mother of the groom etiquette suggests choosing a dress that reflects the formality of the wedding while staying in harmony with the wedding’s theme and colors.

Communication is key—check in with the couple or the mother of the bride early in the planning process.

What Color Does the Mother of the Groom Wear?

Traditionally, neutral or pastel shades, such as champagne, blush, navy, and silver, are popular. These colors are timeless and flattering and work well in most wedding settings. Jewel tones like emerald, ruby, and sapphire are stylish options for formal evening ceremonies. However, it’s essential to avoid colors that match the bride’s gown or the bridal party unless discussed in advance.

Can the Mother of the Groom Wear Black?

Wearing black at weddings was once considered taboo, but modern fashion trends have transformed this perspective. Black is now seen as sophisticated, slimming, and elegant—especially for formal or evening events.

If the wedding has a black-tie or cocktail dress code, the mother of the groom can absolutely wear black. The key is to ensure the dress feels celebratory rather than somber. Adding a colorful shawl, a vibrant clutch, or sparkling jewelry can brighten up the look and make it more suitable for a wedding.

Mother of the Groom Dress Etiquette

The mother of the groom’s dress should match the formality of the wedding. Floor-length gowns are appropriate for black-tie weddings, while tea-length or midi dresses work well for semi-formal ceremonies.

Casual or outdoor weddings may allow for lighter fabrics and more relaxed silhouettes. The dress should also suit the season—think flowing chiffon for summer weddings and rich velvet for winter celebrations.

Do the Mother of the Bride and Groom Match?

While the mother of the bride and groom do not need to wear matching outfits, their looks should complement each other. Coordinating colors, fabrics, or styles can create a cohesive photo look without appearing overly matched.

For instance, if the bride’s mother opts for a floor-length gown in a certain color, the groom’s mother might choose a dress in a complementary color or a different shade of the same color, ensuring both look equally elegant and avoid any potential clashes.

Step into Stunning Style for the Big Day!

Choosing what the mother of the groom should wear doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following mother of the groom dress etiquette and considering color coordination, style, and formality, she can step into the celebration with confidence and grace.

Need expert guidance? Explore Dimitra Designs for a stunning collection of dresses perfect for the occasion.