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Elegance in Every Era: 12 Fashion-Forward and Flattering Dress Styles for the Mother-of-the-Bride!

Shopping for your daughter’s wedding is very exciting. In fact, your daughter’s wedding is an occasion that gives you the opportunity to relive the excitement of shopping for your own wedding dress. This occasion is in fact more fun, since there are fewer rules, but more options. Although you may no longer be 20 years old, you are still fabulous and deserve to look your best on your daughter’s special day.

Nevertheless, there are certain factors to keep in mind when you buy your MOB dress. Let us look at what they are.

  • Every wedding has a color scheme and style. Be considerate and find a dress that works with the colors and the formality of the wedding your daughter has planned.
  • Look glamorous, but don’t upstage the bride with your dress choice. Make sure that your look won’t compete with that of the bride.
  • Although the above rule holds, this doesn’t mean you should dress down for your daughter’s wedding. Dress smart by making a choice that flatters your body type and makes you feel beautiful.
  • Make sure your dress works well with the wedding setting. It should be suitable for the weather at the time of the wedding, convenient to move around in and appropriate if there is a religious or cultural dress code for the event.

For more essential shopping tips for the mother-of-the-bride, we suggest you take a look at this post on the Knot website. 

Now, let’s move to the interesting part—Fashionable dress styles to choose from for your daughter’s wedding.

Every season shines the spotlight on new and evolving trends. Shopping isn’t the same when we cross 50, as our body starts to display signs of ageing. Nonetheless, there are plenty of stunning choices for women your age. All you have to do is keep an open mind. You are bound to find one that ticks all the boxes. Dresses for mature women are just as interesting as those for young ladies. The secret is to find a style that flatters your body type and is fashionable too.

So, first identify your body type. This will help you recognize dress styles that are sure to flatter you. This detailed guide on the 40 Plus Style website provides all the information you need. Check it out!

Then take a look at our list of fashionable and flattering dress styles available for mothers of brides. You are sure to find a hot and happening style that perfectly matches your vision here.

Dresses with sleeves

 

Most of us are reluctant to show off our upper arms, as these often show the signs of ageing. If this problem affects you, we suggest that you choose a gown with half or 3/4th length sleeves that covers up this area. You can further shift focus to another area of your body with a suitable design. We suggest a dress with a dramatic neckline or skirt to show off assets you are proud of. Remember that dresses with sleeves need another wow factor, to look beautiful. So, make sure your dress isn’t drab by choosing one with a statement style element that compensates for the long sleeves.

Fit and flare silhouette

This is a universally flattering silhouette, as the fit and flare suits almost every body type. While simple, it has an elegant finish and can be adapted to any dress length. The silhouette shows off the natural waistline and has a skirt which flows away from the body. This makes it ideal for camouflaging thin or thick hips. Find a fit and flare dress of the length that enhances your body structure. Consider adding an accessory like a belt or sash, if you want to draw attention to your waistline. Choose short dresses if the wedding has an informal tone. Long fit and flare gowns are stunning and the perfect choice for black tie weddings.

Separates

 

This versatile dress style is comfortable and perfectly suited for events in the summer. There is an undeniable sophistication and maturity to this dress style. Hence, it suits older women. Mix and match pieces, or go for a set that flatters you with its colors and details. It is a good idea to choose separates with textures that differ in the upper and lower halves to make it more interesting. With the mix-and-match option, you can easily pick pieces that blend with the theme and also reflect your personal style. Peplum tops are also a fantastic choice that you can pair with pencil skirts or trumpet skirts for a stylish finish.

Draped dress style

The draped style as a trendy introduction to the fashion scene continues to be very popular. Your dress can feature draping in any area. It could be at the neckline, at the waistline or even in the skirt. The best part of this style element is that it instantly highlights the said area. As a result, it can be used to distract from a less attractive area. The draping can be tight and neat, for a formal look. Choose a looser drape for a less formal setting. With such a dress style, it is best to avoid other embellishments in the rest of the dress, or you may end up with a cluttered look.

Column or sheath dress

This silhouette is one of the most flattering for mature women. It has a simple, streamlined look and extends to full-length or features a shorter hemline. The sheath flows naturally, embracing natural curves. The benefit of this style is that it creates the illusion of curves, even while emphasizing a naturally curvy figure. This is a great dress style if you have a straight body structure, since it adds more curves than you actually have. Sheaths are available with lace details, in satin or  chiffon and other breathable fabric. The simple style makes it perfect to pair with statement accessories and jewelry for an elegant look.

Lace dress

Another classic that keeps reinventing itself, the lace dress is a safe bet for the bride’s mother. These come in a stunning range of options in fabric, design and style. Nonetheless, lace has a timeless charm that makes it an unbeatable choice. Either go with an all-over lace dress or choose one with smaller, scattered lace details. For a modern twist, opt for laser-cut lace or 3-dimensional lace details that make it more attractive than traditional lace designs. So, if you want to look your charming, feminine self at your daughter’s wedding, lace it is!

Color blocking

This style allows camouflage of less desirable assets, while accentuating the areas of your body you love. Color blocking can be done vertically, horizontally, or even in geometric or alternating patterns. The style you choose will determine the overall effect you achieve with it. It works on both tall and short women, and you have options in both long and short dresses. Make your color choice wisely, since this will decide the overall effect. Colors close to each other on the wheel have a slimming effect, while contrasting colors have a more dramatic effect.

Empire waistline

This is the perfect style to hide bulges in the waist and stomach area. The empire waistline rests above the natural waistline, with a bodice that cuts just below the bust. Most dresses with this feature have layered voluminous skirts that entirely hide the waist and hips. It creates a statement look, and is just right for a formal effect. Dresses that come with long, flowy fabric skirts are also suitable for outdoor weddings in garden settings or even the beach. The style shifts attention to the neckline and bust, adding more dimension to this area. So, it is a style to consider if you are naturally small-busted.

Bold prints

Best-suited for fun and casual themes, bold prints instantly uplift and make a dress look cheerful. So, let this be your go-to dress style if your daughter has a casual-theme wedding. Choose from geometric prints, stripes, florals or classic designs to find one that matches the theme. With bold prints, you do not need many accessories to complete your look. In fact, we suggest you keep the accessories to a minimum, so it doesn’t look too busy. Just a pair of statement earrings, or a pretty clutch should be sufficient to complete your look.

Rocking red

Red is a color that immediately steals the show, and hence one you should consider wearing. It has a cheerful, energetic vibe that will help you look ultra-stylish. So, choose a shade of red that matches your complexion, and you do not need more to be noticed. Red dresses, whether short or long, are equally attractive. Take care that the cut and fit flatter your natural shape and the silhouette fits snugly along your natural curves. Keep the jewelry and accessories simple, as the color speaks for itself. If you aren’t too sure of wearing the brighter shades of red, settle for maroon or wine red for a subtle effect. You may also want to make sure that the red you choose will go well with the colors in the wedding theme, before you commit to it.

Pastel and neutral combination

Here is another combination that will turn heads your way. Most neutrals combine beautifully with pastel shades to add elegance and sophistication to an outfit. These are age-appropriate combinations that also give you plenty of accessory options. Pair it with a printed clutch, glitzy earrings or a statement necklace and shoes to be a glamorous mother of the bride. The combination goes well with pearl jewelry, and it also works with silver, gold or platinum finishes.

Embellished neckline on long dark silhouette

If there is one detail you should nail when choosing your outfit, it is the neckline. Most women over 50 prefer to avoid deep, low-cut necklines that draw attention to their chest and jaws. So, pick a dress with a high neckline, like a halter or scoop with embellishments in the area. The benefit of this style is that it is simple yet stylish. Embellishments like embroidery, sequins or even crystal and rhinestone details look beautiful against dark colors in the rest of the dress. When such details appear on a full-length gown, adjusting the rest of your look for the formal occasion is easy. You can also find plenty of shorter dresses in our collection with details confined to the neckline alone. These are better suited for semi-formal and casual wedding themes.

Now, tell us which of these styles do you like most?

Do you prefer the glamorous, deep dark colours or classic lace and prints that will never go out of style? Take your time to decide. For it isn’t every day that your daughter gets married. So, plan your look carefully for this special once-in-a-lifetime occasion and make sure everyone remembers how happy and beautiful you looked on this day.

All the dresses featured here are from our Mother-of-the-bride collection at Best for Bride. They are available in a range of sizes and some of the dresses are available in color variants. We suggest you look at the Mother of the bride dress collection here for more details on these dresses. You can also see the rest of our collection here.

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Mother’s Moment to Shine: 3 Essential Tips to Help Mom Find the Perfect Dress for Your Big Day!

Every bride will agree that wedding shopping is more complicated than it seems. You not only want to look stunning on your wedding day, but want the entire bridal party to complement your look too. Where your bridal party is concerned, one person who deserves extra help picking out her outfit for your big day is your mom.

This article on the Huffington post mentions that dressing a mother of the bride is usually more challenging than the bride herself, as there are a whole other set of constraints to meet.  After all, everyone notices her and you don’t want her to look anything less than beautiful on your special day.

Although it is only right that you allow your mother to pick her own dress for your wedding, there are some things you can do to help her make her decision easier and to ensure that what she wears goes well with your wedding theme. Here is what you can do.

1.Give her a reasonable variety of colors and patterns to choose from

Whether it is color or pattern, don’t restrict your mother’s choices to just a few. It is a big day for her, so she should have the liberty to choose a dress that brings out her best. Make sure that your suggestions include colors and designs that she will be comfortable in. Give her a wide range of colors that will blend well with your wedding palette, and suggest a range of patterns that will look good on her. This will allow her to look at more dresses and locate one that she loves.

2. Help to co-ordinate with your future mother-in-law, so their looks on they day complement each other

Traditionally, the bride’s mother picks her dress first, and then the groom chooses a dress that matches it. Although the two mothers weren’t expected to dress the same, their choice of dresses were supposed to be complementary and go well together. This may sound unrealistic today, but wouldn’t it be good if their looks matched? Talk to your mother-in-law before both mothers go shopping and find out whether she has any specific plans on how she will dress on the day. You can then suggest designs for your mom. Go with either a traditional look or modern style for both moms, and their dresses should ideally be in different colors but ones that go together.

3.Encourage her to step out of her comfort zone and choose a dress that will allow her to shine

Many mothers decide to go for something classic and safe for their daughter’s wedding day. You know your mother’s personality and the type of dresses that she can carry off confidently. Encourage her to choose a dress that will bring out her best features, and in which she will look elegant, but different. Why don’t you spare some time to look for designs that you think will look great on her? You could offer to go with her when she goes shopping. It would be exciting for both of you, and you will remember the experience fondly as it becomes part of your wedding memories.

For an inspiring collection of mother-of-the-bride dresses, don’t forget to visit us at Best for Bride today.

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Dress Advice for the Mother of the Groom

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There are hundreds of columns, books and articles dedicated to wedding advice for the bride, groom, bridesmaids and even mother-of-the-bride. However, we seldom come across useful advice for the mother of the groom. So, this article is dedicated to the mothers of the grooms, and we will soon explore the guidelines that will help the mother of the groom choose a dress that is appropriate for her son’s wedding.

Going with tradition

Traditionally, it was the bride’s mother who first chose her dress and informed the groom’s mother of her selection. The mother of the groom would then choose a dress that would match. The dresses of both mothers weren’t expected to be a perfect match. Nevertheless, it was common practice that their dresses didn’t clash, but would instead complement each other. So, if the mother of the bride chose a long dress, the mother of the groom would also do the same.

Go with the wedding theme and colors

You should be aware of the various colors that are in the wedding palette, and the type of wedding that is planned. Depending on the specific nature of the wedding, you may choose your dress in a color and style that matches the style of wedding. Take cues from the bridesmaids dresses and choose your dress in a color that complements it, but isn’t the same shade.

 

Avoid white and black

You should stay away from white, obviously because it is the bridal color. Black isn’t usually considered suitable for a wedding, and unless it is a part of the overall color scheme, or the couple don’t mind you choosing a black dress, it is best avoided.

Comfort is key

It is not a good idea to experiment with daring options in dress styles on this day.You will be spending several hours wearing the dress you choose, so go with a style that you are comfortable in.

Once you choose your dress, get it altered to fit your measurements. This will make sure it flaunts your figure. Also select appropriate innerwear to support you throughout the day, and invest in a good pair of shoes.

Dress appropriately and aim for elegance

Choose a dress silhouette that flatters your figure, and make sure it is one that doesn’t cause any eyebrows to be raised. Modern etiquette rules do not demand that the mother of the groom be dressed conservatively. So, you can choose dresses that highlight the latest trends, but aim for a classic and elegant look. If you want to try something bold, it is a good idea to first get your would-be daughter-in-law’s opinion on whether it would be appropriate for the occasion.

Accessorize to enhance your overall look

Don’t just rely on your dress to look great. Make sure you have the jewelry to add the finishing touches. Classic choices are pearls and diamonds, but you can also go for colored gemstones that match your dress. Choose a stunning clutch and matching shoes to add style to your outfit. Finally pay attention to your makeup and hairstyle to look fabulous.

To choose from a great selection of dresses in all colors and patterns to wear at your son’s lifetime event, visit us at Best for Bride.

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Shopping tips for the mother-of-the-bride: Look gorgeous and not matronly

It is your daughter’s wedding day, and you have to find a dress to wear. Let’s face it! This is a difficult task.

After your daughter, you are the next person who will be scrutinized by the wedding guests on this big day, and you do not want to disappoint.

Just because your little girl is getting married, it doesn’t mean you should restrict your dress choices to ones that are matronly, and a safe choice. This is your chance to shine too, and a well-dressed mother will be appreciated.

So, here are some tips to help you find a dress that will allow you to look glamorous, and be a perfect reflection of the woman you are.

Forget safe choices

via Best for Bride

As they age, women are usually uncomfortable flaunting their figure, even though they may look better than they did when they were getting married themselves. The so-called age-appropriate dress choices are often boring and without personality. Don’t make this mistake when you choose your mother-of-the-bride dress.

When you look at dresses, choose a flattering silhouette, and a pretty design that matches your personality. Go for a color that isn’t blah! You don’t need to expose skin to look glamorous, a dress that fits well, and enhances your best features can do this for you. You don’t want to upstage your daughter at her wedding, but make sure you don’t disappoint either. For once, choose a design that isn’t your signature style, and you will feel fabulous everytime you hear a flattering comment.

Don’t be afraid of experimenting with the latest trends

via Best for Bride

If there are mother-of-the-bride dresses that incorporate the latest fashion trends such as ruffles, asymmetrical pleats, off-the-shoulder necklines and embellishments, its because they are what women of today love. So, don’t think the latest trends are not worth your attention. You have nothing to lose by trying it on and checking whether it suits you. If the dress reflects your spirit, take it; if it is a little too girlish for your choice, leave it.

Sometimes, a dress in an unusual shade may have a stunning effect, so keep your mind open and you may find a fantastic choice. To know your options, make sure you check with your daughter on which colors would go with the wedding color palette. Once you know your options, you can make a good choice.

Customize to suit your taste

via Best for Bride

If you love a sexy, stylish gown, but are worried of whether you may later think it is inappropriate or regret it, consider having sheer sleeves added, or pair it with a matching wrap or mock bolero, and you can have the best of both worlds. Also, when choosing a dress, pay attention to whether it covers or camouflages problem areas. This will allow you to feel more confident when wearing it. Consider using good shapewear that will support your figure, and you will immediately feel the difference.

Accessorize with a matching stole or scarf, and attractive jewelry, and make the effort to look fantastic on your daughter’s special day. Don’t forget to add a matching pair of comfortable, but elegant shoes to complete your look.

Check out our mother-of-the-bride collection at Best for Bride. You are certain to find a dress that is totally You!