I’m baaaaaack! It’s been awhile since I’ve done an inspiration post, so I’m easing back into things with a little love for all the mothers of the brides (and grooms) out there. After all, Mother’s Day is this weekend! :)
During this busy wedding season, nearly every day I’ve been asked to help style mothers and grandmothers of the bride or groom. It’s always the same: They come to me with joy on their face and a slight tinge of panic in their eyes. They tell me they’ve been so busy helping their child plan his or her big day that they’ve just now had time to think about themselves. After I take some time to assess their needs (when is the wedding, what time of day, what’s her style, what’s the couple’s style, etc…), we get to work. From the dress, to the shoes, to the jewelry, I do my best to give her the Pretty Woman treatment, and it always ends with her breathing a huge sigh of relief.
Brides, I know you may be stressed, but remember Mom is too. She is beyond excited for you, and because she loves you dearly, she wants everything to be perfect for you– including how she’s dressed. And if you go shopping with her for her dress, please remember that this is her moment. Be patient. Be kind. Be supportive.
So what to wear? Well, it all depends on the wedding and how formal it is. I urge you though to look outside the realm of David’s Bridal. I promise there are some amazing options out there for all budgets and body types. Remember fit is first and foremost! Most women need their clothes altered. Without alterations a thousand dollar dress can look cheap, but with alterations, a bargain can look like a steal.
Here are my favorite designers for MOBs as well as other choice dresses:
Tadashi Shoji – Although he’s been designing for more than 30 years, it was Octavia Spencer’s stunning appearances at this year’s Golden Globes and Oscars, that brought his designs back into the spotlight. His Asian roots permeate in his work with beautiful draping and impeccable tailoring.
Foil Draped Gown, Lavender Chiffon Dress, and Ruched Taffeta Gown
St. John – This is my go-to designer for women that want polished perfection. Whether it’s an afternoon wedding in a garden or an evening ceremony, the line offers a wide variety of sophistication.
Lace Sleeve Dress, Cowl Neck Blouse and Skirt, and Wisteria Sheath.
Other faves :
Rachel Roy dress, Lela Rose dress, and Laundry by Shelli Segal dress
More posts by Lorie, our style expert!
see, and I was SOOOO against going to Davids Bridal for anything! But then I stopped in real quick one day for BM dresses and much to my surprise found wonderful dresses! I also went to Nordstroms where I had an appointment, and not one sales person asked me if I needed help. They totally looked over me. I left there with a very bad taste in my mouth and disappointment in their “finer” collections, that I had to look through on my own :(
With all of that said, what do you recommend for a mom who is shrimp size :D 4’11” to be exact! AND it awful if my mom goes short gown, and his mom goes long? I know there are rules, but do you have to follow them?
glad to see you posting again, I LOVE your style boards, always fun,flirty with a touch of whimsical <3
I can’t believe I’m just now replying. Eeek! Thanks for the love Jenn! Sorry you haven’t had much luck for Mom. Dresses can be tricky if the MOB and MOG want two different lengths. It really depends on how formal the wedding is.
If you’re having a formal wedding, something like this is a great option http://shop.tadashishoji.com/evening-shop/cocktail-dresses/hand-cut-floral-cocktail-dress-in-willow.html Eventhough it’s a short dress, with proper styling it would be totally acceptable. The right heels and accessories can take an outfit a long way.
The most important thing when dressing a petite woman is to make sure the proportions are right. If it’s a short dress, make sure it hits above the knee. Otherwise, she’ll look even shorter. Also, make sure the waistline is at her natural waist and not falling too low.
If you need any more help/suggestions just let me know, and I promise it won’t take as long for me to reply. ;)
I love that St. John lace sleeved dress! I think it’s perfect for the young MOB (or young at heart).