What Should the Mother of the Groom Wear?

Deciding what to wear to a wedding can be difficult, especially when it’s one of your kids who’s getting married. What should the mother of the groom wear? Should she coordinate with the other mother? How formal should she be? What colors make the most sense? There are so many questions that you’re probably asking yourself, but don’t worry, because that’s where this blog post comes in.

Keep reading to discover answers to frequently asked questions about what the mother of the groom should (and shouldn’t) wear. Then, check out some chic and shoppable wardrobe options to get you thinking about the perfect ensemble for you.

What should the mother of the groom wear?

Unless certain traditions or religions are involved, there aren’t any specific rules when it comes to what the mother of the groom should wear. Some mothers opt to talk with the mother of the bride so that they’re coordinated. But it’s by no means essential.

However, while there aren’t any specific rules about what the mother of the groom should wear, there are some guidelines. We recommend making sure your outfit is in line with the attire that’s suggested on the wedding invitation (i.e. cocktail, black tie, etc.) and, more importantly, that it’s something you feel splendid in. Those are basically the only two recommendations we have! Remember, this is an exciting and magical time, so try not to let things like wardrobe give you any stress (easier said than done, we know).

What shouldn’t the mother of the groom wear?

Avoid any shade of white, off-white, cream, beige, etc. Anything in the world of white, just avoid it. Some people also say to avoid black unless it’s a formal wedding; however, that isn’t a hard and fast rule. We personally think black always looks stunning no matter the occasion. Also, try to avoid anything super flashy, as you want all the attention to be on the happy couple getting married.

Who picks the wardrobe for the mother of the groom?

The mother of the groom does! Unlike the bridesmaids and groomsmen, the mother of the groom chooses her own wedding attire, which is great because you get to pick something that you feel fabulous in.

When should the mother of the groom buy her outfit?

You don’t need to buy your mother of the groom outfit as early as brides purchase their gowns, but buying it early on in the wedding planning process is a good idea just to avoid any last-minute tailoring or mishaps.

What accessories should the mother of the groom wear?

Accessories can be placed in the same category as dresses and the rest of the mother of the groom ensemble. While there’s no right or wrong answer, many mothers of the groom opt for classy — but understated — jewelry and accessories that fall in line with the wedding’s dress code and avoid stealing the spotlight.

Explore 10 beautiful mother of the groom outfit ideas, plus where to buy them:

1. Our favorite short dress - BHLDN Lillie Dress

The sheer neckline combined with the floral embroidery and knee-length hem make this dress perfect for a mother of the groom ensemble.

2. Our favorite printed dress - Jessica Floral Mikado Gown

The print of this gown is fabulous, but what’s even more stunning is the cut. The peaked lapels, cinched waist, A-line shape, and side-seam pockets create a gorgeous look.

3. Our favorite two-toned dress - Rickie Freeman for Teri Jon

This reminds us of something Diane Keaton would wear to an awards show, so needless to say, we’re obsessed. If you’re a more fashion-forward mother of the groom, go with this incredible gown.

4. Our favorite wrap dress - Jenny Yoo Idris Luxe Chiffon Dress

Perfect for a more casual wedding, this wrap dress has billowing sleeves and luxe chiffon elevating the traditional jersey-style wrap dress. Plus, due to the style, this is absolutely a dress you will be able to wear again and again.

5. Our favorite jumpsuit - Bernadette cady and embroidered tulle jumpsuit

If you’re looking for a jumpsuit to wear as the mother of the groom, we love this one. The embroidered polka dot tulle gathers at the shoulders to emphasize the gorgeous balloon sleeves. One word: chic.

6. Our favorite sustainable dress - Edmonia asymmetric cotton-blend crepon dress

For the eco-friendly mother of the groom, consider this orange, locally made asymmetric gown. The flowy silhouette and cotton-blend crepon give this dress a more casual look, perfect for an outdoor wedding.

7. Our favorite black dress - Odezia Short-Sleeve Peplum Gown

If you’re looking for a formal gown, this black peplum dress is a show-stopper. With a square neckline and cap sleeves, you’ve got the perfect combination of formality mixed with fun.

8. Our favorite beaded dress - Beaded Flutter-Sleeve Gown

Add some sparkle to your mother of the groom dress with this beaded flutter-sleeve gown. The embellishment adds for a fun pop of pizzaz without going too overboard taking away from the couple of the evening.

9. Our favorite off-the-shoulder dress - Pryce Off-the-Shoulder Column Dress

This silky-column dress is drop-dead beautiful. The fabric is chic and the cut is elegant. If you’re looking for a more simplistic gown for the wedding, this is it.

10. Our favorite high-neck dress - Esme Satin Charmeuse Dress

Available in four colors, this satin high-neck gown exudes sophistication. If you’re looking for something classic and elegant, but not super conservative, opt for this luscious beauty.

Now you know what the mother of the groom should (and shouldn’t) wear!

If we were to give you three overall guidelines to remember when choosing your outfit as the mother of the groom, it would be to keep in line with the attire suggestion on the invitation, avoid shades of white, and be yourself! Make sure you pick an outfit you love that you feel great in. Bonus if you can wear it again to other events and occasions.

Now that you have your wedding day outfit picked out, start thinking about what you want to wear to the rehearsal dinner.