My Daughter Is Getting Married. What Do I Wear? 

Every parent looks forward to their child’s wedding, which signifies a new chapter in their lives and is often seen as a fundamental marker of children’s transition to adulthood. It’s perfectly normal to feel a whirlwind of emotions, from blissful joy to a tinge of sadness, as you reflect on cherished memories from your daughter’s childhood. Whilst my daughter is only three years old, I look forward to the day she marries, if she chooses to. My husband almost welled up the other day when I mentioned it. I know I had an older readership too, grandparents who will no doubt find this post useful. 

If you’re meticulously organized and the couple are happy for you to get involved, you can perhaps help them put together the guest list, scout venues, and negotiate with vendors. The mother of the bride should be supportive too. While not required, they can gift the bride with something special on the morning of the wedding, whether that’s a honeymoon travel bundle or a lucky coin necklace. 

What You Wear Should Reflect The Couple’s Vision

With all the time you’ve invested in the big day and the countless other days before it, you deserve a special outfit for the big day! Do discuss your outfit choices with the bride because she might have specific preferences regarding colour and style. Your attire should reflect your style and personality while complementing the wedding’s overall theme, so dress with purpose and authenticity. If you need help figuring out what to wear, ask your daughter for some assistance. 

Mother-of-the-bride clothing etiquette is constantly evolving. In the past, mother-of-the-bride dresses were often criticized for having a dowdy or frumpy appearance, whereas now, moms are encouraged to wear what they love – with the bride’s approval, of course. Why not wear an evening dress to ooze glamour or embrace a midi dress or even a chic jumpsuit? The dress code the bride sets will be the decisive factor in what you can and, most importantly, can’t wear on the big day. While not mandatory, coordinating with the mother of the groom is ideal and will ensure the photos look seamless! 

It’s Better To Be Slightly Overdressed Than Underdressed 

A wedding is generally considered a formal event, so you have the opportunity to get all dolled up. The requirements for evening wear are pretty straightforward now that you understand what you’re working with: select a dress that falls below the knee. If a free-flowing dress isn’t your cup of tea, a sharply tailored suit is an excellent option too. It’s better to be overdressed for this special occasion than underdressed, but before you leave the house, look closely in the mirror and remove one accessory. Less is more. What is going to make you look your best is confidence!

Unless you’re attending a beach ceremony, you should avoid cotton poplin or gauzy linen at all costs, even if they’re lightweight and breathable. Your outfit may appear out of place. Think about more luxurious materials like tulle or satin that look polished. Make sure to call the groom’s mother to let her know the details too. 

Can I Wear Black To The Wedding? You Definitely Can 

It’s okay for the mother of the bride to wear black, especially if the couple is having a black-tie wedding, so be the most elevated version of yourself. Black isn’t reserved solely for those in mourning, so choose the right shade and silhouette to complement your frame; appropriate accessories include stiletto heels and a formal purse, which match your shoes and dress. These days, all colours are acceptable, including shades of white, but you should consult with your daughter ahead of time and take into account the venue, vibe, and season. Don’t wear anything similar to the bride’s dress! After you’ve double-checked, feel free to don your favourite look. 

Start Shopping For Your Dress Six To Eight Months Before The Wedding 

If you don’t really like shopping, it might be a good idea to find someone who can steer you in the right direction when it comes to your attire. Hiring a stylist eliminates endless browsing and shopping trips that, more often than not, lead to impulse buys. A seasoned professional will make you look and feel good. They work for you and can go anywhere to find what you need. Of course, you pay for your own attire unless the couple states otherwise. 

You’re not finished when you say yes to the dress either. Several fittings are usually necessary to ensure the final look is perfect and by ordering your gown months in advance, you can avoid any drama close to the wedding. Make sure you hire an experienced tailor for any alterations. As a rule, you shouldn’t start shopping for your dress until your daughter has decided upon her wedding dress and those for the bridal party. This happens six to eight months before the big day usually. It’s best to check in with the bride to see if she has a timeline and then work to it! 

Concluding Remarks 

Finding your outfit is a journey of self-discovery, so focus on the clothes that make you feel most like yourself – it will be the most important day of your life, too. Once you find the perfect dress, you’ll need jewellery, a purse, and shoes to complete your outfit. Check out Pinterest and consider creating a board to put together looks you like. Most of all, enjoy the experience!

 

Photo by Beatriz Pérez Moya on Unsplash