As core members of the wedding party, the parents of the bride and groom play a crucial role in setting the tone for the event. Their attire should reflect the formality, style, and cultural traditions of the wedding.
Parents should communicate with the couple to ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding style, formality, and color schemes. Consider the wedding location (e.g., a beach wedding calls for lighter fabrics, while a winter event may require heavier materials) and the time of year when choosing attire. Start shopping early to allow time for fittings or alterations. Weddings are long events, so ensure that your outfit is comfortable for extended wear. This includes choosing shoes that are stylish yet practical for walking, standing, and dancing.
If the wedding includes specific cultural or religious customs that influence attire, be sure to honor these traditions.
Our guide offers practical advice and tips to help parents of the bride and groom choose attire that honors the occasion while allowing them to look and feel their best.
Mother of the Bride and Mother of the Groom
The Mother of the Bride (MoB) traditionally plays a central role in the wedding and is often one of the most visible figures throughout the event. Her attire should strike a balance between elegance, alignment with the wedding theme, and personal comfort. The Mother of the Groom (MoG) should choose her outfit to complement the MoB’s.
1. Coordinate with the Wedding Theme
- Formal Wedding: For black-tie weddings, floor-length gowns in luxurious fabrics such as silk or velvet are ideal. Subtle embellishments like lace or beadwork can add sophistication.
- Semi-Formal Wedding: Knee-length or tea-length dresses in elegant fabrics like chiffon or crepe work well for less formal settings.
- Casual Wedding: A chic cocktail dress or a tailored pantsuit in soft or pastel tones fits more relaxed environments, such as a beach or garden wedding.
2. Color Choices
- The MoB’s and MoG’s dresses should complement, not clash with, the wedding palette. Common choices include neutral tones like champagne, blush, navy, or pastel shades that pair well with the bridesmaids’ dresses.
- Avoid White and Ivory as these might compete with the bride’s wedding dress (and remember: nobody outshines the bride!!), and this is also not an occasion for loud colors and patterns.
3. Comfort and Style
- Choose an outfit that is comfortable enough to wear for the entire day, from the ceremony to the reception. Consider the season, wedding venue, and any cultural or religious expectations.
Father of the Bride and Father of the Groom
The Father of the Bride (FoB) often has a prominent role in the wedding, traditionally walking the bride down the aisle and giving a speech at the reception. His attire should reflect the formality of the wedding and coordinate with the groom’s outfit. The same holds true for the Father of the Groom (FoG).
1. Formal Weddings
- Black Tie: A classic black tuxedo with a bow tie is a timeless choice. Consider a cummerbund or vest for added elegance.
2. Semi-Formal and Casual Weddings
- Suit: A well-fitted fine-wool or wool/silk suit in navy, charcoal, or gray is a versatile option. Pair it with a coordinating tie or pocket square that matches the wedding colors.
- Light-colored suits in linen or cotton work well for relaxed summer weddings (with a dress shirt and patterned necktie for semi-formal and an open-collared shirt for casual weddings), while darker hues in heavier fabrics are better for fall and winter events.
3. Accessories
- Always wear elegant shoes that are appropriate for the venue (dress shoes for indoor settings, upscale loafers for beach weddings – sneakers are NEVER appropriate!).
- Cufflinks, elegant wristwatches, and boutonnieres add a touch of sophistication without overpowering the overall look.
In short:
The attire of the Mother of the Bride, Mother of the Groom, Father of the Bride, and Father of the Groom plays an integral role in the overall aesthetic of the wedding. By coordinating with the couple, planning ahead, and considering the formality and style of the wedding, parents can ensure they look their best while honoring the significance of the day. Choose attire that allows you to feel confident, comfortable, and ready to celebrate this joyous occasion.