Your child’s getting married! Whether you’re the mother of the bride or the mother of the groom, it’s a big day. And your outfit is probably at the forefront of your mind right now.
If you’re the mother of the bride, you’ve probably found plenty of options to browse already. But if you’re the mother of the groom, guidelines can be a little less clear.
But what is the difference between mother of the bride and mother of the groom dresses?
To try and make your wedding outfit shopping a little easier, we’ve put together some highlights that might help.
Shopping Schedules
Lots of mother of the bride (MOB) and mother of groom (MOG) dresses are very similar. Plus, the formality of the wedding will dictate how dressy you decide to go. However, one main difference between MOB and MOG shopping is timing.
Tradition states that the mother of the bride should choose first. We say, just keep communication open. As soon as you start to think about shopping, get together for a chat – or at least a phone call – and discuss your ideas. This way, you can both be considerate and make choices that will complement the bridal party AND one another. Or even better why not make arrangements to go shopping together?
CoordinateColour & Formality
Unless requested by the bride, you don’t want to match colours or match with the bridesmaids but coordination is key for chic photographs. Again, this will be something worth talking to the bride about. Maybe she envisions everyone in neutral tones. Maybe she’d prefer bold and bright. This should help to guide you.
Coordinating in formality is also important. If the mother of the bride chooses a very casual and relaxed look – no doubt approved by the bride – you probably don’t want to then choose something very formal and sparkly as the mother of the groom. Open communication will help to guide here – as well as the venue and time of year.
Can the mother of the groom wear a short dress if the mother of the bride wears long?
In short, yes. If the mother of the bride decides to wear long, this doesn’t mean you have to. Especially if you’re not comfortable in a full-length dress or outfit. However, make sure you choose something that coordinates with the formality of a long dress so that you don’t feel too casual.
What about Step-Mother of the Bride or Groom?
If you’re a stepmother of either the bride or the groom, you are equally an important part of the wedding party. You will likely wear a similar style and formality of dress as the mothers. If you can, communicate with the mothers in terms of styles, colours and formality.
And if this is difficult, ask for a little help from the bride when it comes to guidance.
Mother of The Groom Etiquette
If it’s your son’s big day and you’re not sure on the mother of the groom etiquette when it comes to dresses, these quick tips should help.
- Traditional etiquette says to let the mother of the bride choose her outfit first. At least call for a chat before you start to shop so you can discuss colours, brands, etc.
- Compliment but don’t match the bridesmaids and the mother of the bride.
- Simple is often better.
- Check with the bride if in doubt.
Mother of the bride dresses and mother of the groom dresses and outfits are the same, it's all down to individual style. Whether it’s a black-tie or a casual affair, the style rules for wedding party guest outfits are similar.
To ensure your shopping and styling experience runs smoothly, it’s best to keep both parties in the know. And grab a little advice from the bride if you’re not sure.
You’ll find our mother of the bride and groom dressesand outfits edited together in our latest collection.
FAQs
Traditionally, the role of the groom's mother is a little more limited than that of the mother of the bride. When it comes to involvement in wedding planning, it's usually at the discretion of the couple.
Should mother of bride and mother of groom match? ›
Unless you are specifically asked to do so by the bride, both mothers should avoid matching each other or the bridesmaids' dresses. However, coordination is still crucial for chic photographs on the big day. So, at the very least, both mothers will want to wear colors that complement the other.
What color is the groom's mother supposed to wear? ›
What Colour Can the Mother of the Groom Wear? Opt for colours that complement the wedding palette. Jewel tones, pastels, and navy are popular choices that photograph well and add a touch of sophistication.
What does the mother of the groom usually do? ›
The mother of the bride takes care of many things, but the mother of the groom has a few responsibilities as well. Traditionally, the groom's mother will take care of the rehearsal dinner arrangements and help prepare the guest list for the groom's side of the family.
Does the groom's mother give the bride a gift? ›
Typically, as per tradition, the mother of the groom will bring a gift for the bride to the bridal shower. It can be something small and thoughtful.
What color should the mother of the bride wear? ›
Typically the Mother of the Bride's dress should complement the bridal party's color palette. Not necessarily match with the bridesmaids, but choose a color in the color family. The most popular color for the mother of the bride to wear is navy or a royal blue, followed by blush or a shade of nude.
What should the mother of the groom look like? ›
The mother-of-the-groom should wear an outfit that fits the wedding theme while also making them feel stylish, comfortable and confident. Use the season and venue as a starting point for figuring out the style of outfit the mother-of-the-groom should wear.
Who enters first the mother of the bride or the mother of the groom? ›
Parents. Again, the couple's parents may or may not walk down the aisle (they can also just take their seats as the procession begins). Traditionally, the groom's parents will go first, followed by the mother of the bride, but the couple may choose to be escorted down the aisle by one or both of their parents.
Who walks down the groom's mom? ›
The groom might opt to escort his mother down the aisle and to her seat in the front row, followed closely behind by the groom's father. This gives the groom an opportunity to give his parents a hug before taking his place at the altar.
What does the mother of the groom pay for? ›
The groom's family traditionally paid for all costs associated with the rehearsal dinner and honeymoon, wedding day transportation, and the officiant. The groom paid for the bride's engagement ring, wedding ring, and groomsmen gifts. It is also common for the groom's family to pay for the alcohol at the reception.
For starters, it is quite common for the groom's mom to be with the bride the morning of the wedding. "Most often times we see the mother of the groom getting ready with the mother of the bride in the bridal suite," says Manda Worthington, event planner, founder, and CEO of Mae&Co.
What does a mother say at her son's wedding? ›
One idea for a mother of the groom speech is to express your profound love and pride for your son. Speak from the heart and share how he has grown into an exceptional individual. Highlight his virtues, accomplishments, and the values he embodies.
Who pays for mother of groom hair and makeup? ›
Who Pays for the Mother-of-the-Bride and Groom's Beauty Team? As with most beauty questions, there is no hard-and-fast rule. Some brides may offer to cover hair and makeup services in order to thank the wedding party for being a part of their special day.
Is the mother of the groom supposed to give a shower? ›
The Mother of the Groom Can Co-Host the Bridal Shower
If the mother of the groom is very close with the bride, then she may feel as though it's her duty to pitch in, too. If your mom, sister, or friends are on board with the idea of a co-host, then this is an entirely acceptable route.
What is a mother's role in her son's wedding? ›
As the mother of the groom, you can always offer help with the wedding planning process. On the wedding day, be there to support your son in any way that you can. The best thing that you can do is to help bridge your families, welcome wedding guests, and soak in all the special moments of this defining day.
Why is the mother of the bride so important? ›
She is the one who has been there for the bride throughout her life (assumingely) and knows her better than anyone else. She is an essential part of the bride's emotional support system and helps her stay calm and grounded during the wedding planning process.
Does the mother of the groom get ready with the mother of the bride? ›
For starters, it is quite common for the groom's mom to be with the bride the morning of the wedding. "Most often times we see the mother of the groom getting ready with the mother of the bride in the bridal suite," says Manda Worthington, event planner, founder, and CEO of Mae&Co.
