Once the most important dress-shopping experience is complete (the bride’s, duh!), it’ll eventually come time for both the mother of the bride and mother of the groom to purchase their own gowns. Lucky for them (and you), there aren’t too many rules that will limit their style choices, it’s all completely up to you and your mom (or future MIL). One of the best ways to shop for mother of the bride dresses is in-person, or by sending your mom a few links online to show her styles you like (that you think would look amazing) and hopefully she can buy a few to try on. Macy’s dresses are a great option because your mom can visit the store in person first to see what their selection is, then order more online if she doesn’t find something she likes (or vice versa).
Just remember that above all else, this experience should be fun! Chances are your mom has a few ideas about what she likes, and it’s up to you to support them. Your may might be nervous about the experience, so it’s important to be encouraging while also providing suggestions for colors you think might work best based on your wedding theme. Now, on to the fun stuff!
When Should Your Mom Start Shopping?
Traditionally, the mother of the bride will buy her dress first; then, the mother of the groom will follow her lead. To allow time for shipping and alterations, the mother of the bride should plan on buying her dress 6 or 7 months before the wedding date. Though keep in mind one of the benefit of Macy’s dresses is you can often find a style that’s either ready to ship within days, or one that you can buy right off the rack.
It also helps if you make sure you and your S.O.’s mothers keep an open line of communication throughout the process. They don’t need to send the details of their shopping trips to one another, but at the very least, they should know what the other is wearing to avoid any snafus (like matching or clashing). Or if they live in the same city, maybe it could be fun if they went shopping together!
Also Read: Wedding invitation wording for complicated situations
As we mentioned earlier as well, it’s important to provide some guidance for the both moms. You can go about this two different ways. One, you can ask to be consulted before an actual purchase is made. Or two, just explain your general vision for what they should wear. If you opt for the latter, it would be helpful to describe ideal styles and colors, or let them know if there are any dress codes at your ceremony or reception venue. You should also remind them of any weather issues, such as whether or not they might need a matching wrap if it’s cold outside.
Listen: Our Q&A with the Big Wedding Planning Podcast
What Should the Mother of the Bride Avoid Wearing?
While this is a personal choice, both moms should avoid wearing a white or ivory/champagne dress. Unless of course you WANT them to wear white…it’s totally up to you! The mother of the bride and/or groom will also want to make sure they do not wear dresses that are too similar to the bridesmaid dresses. However if they can find a dress that complements the bridesmaids’, that is perfect!
Where Should You Shop for Dresses?
It’s best to start online and look for styles that you think your mom might like. Or have your mom take a look and send you some ideas and go from there. When it comes to Mother of the Bride and Mother of the Groom dresses, we’re a fan of ordering from larger stores (like Macy’s) that have great return policies in case something does fit once you try it on at home. And just like your wedding dress shopping, be sure mom tries on the dress with the shoe heel height she plans on wearing, along with the undergarments.
Find the Best Style…Together!
Regardless of how involved you want to be, make sure you consider the personal styles of your mom and your S.O.’s mom. They definitely shouldn’t feel uncomfortable on your big day! We’ve gathered a few Macy’s dresses that are sure to leave both the mother of the bride and mother of the groom feeling as confident as ever. We love Macy’s dresses because not only do they have a great selection, but their sales often make dresses up to 40% off. So be sure to get on their e-mail list, or on your mom’s next visit to the store, have her connect with a salesperson to keep them informed.
Our Favorite Macy’s Dresses
These dresses are beautiful for a wedding and beyond. Not only can each of these Macy’s dresses easily be worn again, but they are all relatively affordable, especially if you can take advantage of one of their big sales!
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