5 Dos and Don’ts for Mother of the Bride Dress Shopping

As the mother of the bride, your gown is a big deal too. You’ll be included in a lot of photographs and will mingle with the guests, and you’ll want to have your moment when you enter the ceremony as well. Use our five dos and don’ts for mother of the bride dress shopping to ensure a happy and exciting dress search.

When Should the Mother of the Bride Buy Her Dress?

The ideal time to begin searching for your dress is six to eight months before the wedding date. This leaves time for fittings, shipping, send-backs, and alterations—if any are required. The wedding dress and bridesmaid dresses have likely been chosen by this time, so you’ll know what you’ll need to coordinate. You’ll be able to look for a dress you love without the stress of waiting until the last minute. 

Do Connect With the Mother of the Groom Before Shopping

Traditionally, the mother of the bride would choose her dress first, which would inform the mother of the groom what to wear. This tip is outdated and old-fashioned. Open up the lines of communication by calling her a week or two before you begin the search to let her know what color and style you’re considering. If you’d like, you can invite her to come along, but at the least, you’ve given her the green light to search.

This heads-up will also prevent clashing or purchasing the same dress.

Don’t Ignore Requests From Your Daughter

Not sure what the bride’s mother should wear? Ask the bride for ideas! Discuss with your daughter what kind of dress you’re looking for and see if she has any requests or wants to go shopping with you. Would she prefer you in a specific shade of purple? Is she cool with you wearing a pantsuit instead of a dress? While you’re able to tell her you don’t want to wear that sleeveless dress because it doesn’t match your skin tone, it’s also good to hear her out and compromise. This way, you’re both happy. 

Try dresses on that you’re on the fence about; you may surprise yourself at your choice. Let your daughter see if a neckline makes you uncomfortable. She’ll want you to feel confident and comfortable in your dress. 

Do Take Into Account the Wedding Location, Colors, Formality, Season, and Time of Day

Some brides may prefer their moms to wear the same color as the wedding party, but this isn’t a set rule. The location, color, formality, time, and season for the wedding will help narrow down the options for your dress. For example, you’ll want to avoid wearing a long gown for an outdoor wedding because it will get dirty quickly, and fall mother of the bride dresses will look very different from spring options. 

Don’t Just Ask To See Mother of the Bride Dresses at Stores

You don’t only have to ask for mother of the bride dresses. Likewise, mother of the bride gowns don’t have to appear matronly or conservative. You can ask for formal or even black-tie gowns at the store. 

At Effie’s Boutique, we carry an incredible variety of Alyce Paris and Terani mother of the bride gowns that are sure to tickle your fancy. Feel free to browse our website to view our selection today. Reanalyze these five dos and don’ts for mother of the bride dress shopping for reference if needed. Good luck on your dress adventure!