No, the mother of the groom (MOG) and mother of the bride (MOB) should not wear the exact same color or dress, but their outfits should be complementary and coordinate with the wedding's overall color scheme and formality, usually decided through communication with the couple and each other to avoid clashes and ensure a balanced look in photos. The traditional approach is for the MOB's dress to complement, not match, the MOB, often picking a different shade or style within the same palette, but it's crucial to check with the couple for their preferences.
Traditionally, the mother of the bride chooses her dress and then the mother of the groom chooses a dress that is similar in style and a complimentary (but not the same) color.
Because the mother of the groom isn't part of the bridal party, she should avoid choosing a dress in the same color as the bridesmaids' attire, the mother of the bride's dress, or the wedding gown.
Try blues, greens, purples, and neutrals such as navy, emerald, plum, or silver. These versatile – and universally flattering – palettes make it easy for mothers of the bride and groom to harmonize. With pale green and blue tints, we love silvery shades for Mum, while jewel tones pair well with other rich colours.
What is the groom's mother supposed to wear? She should wear an elegant dress, suit, or jumpsuit that fits the formality of the wedding while aligning with the color palette and theme.
Nayri, a wedding fashion expert and representative for Lovella Bridal, says her favorite colors for moms are "navy blue, burgundy, champagne, gray, blush pink and pastel blue." She adds, "There are some really pretty fabrics in nice metallic brown colors too."
Family heirlooms
These items can include jewelry, watches, or a personalized handkerchief. Family heirlooms are warm tender gestures that symbolize the true delight that the mother of the groom feels about having her daughter-in-law marry into the clan.
However, it's essential to avoid colors that match the bride's gown or the bridal party unless discussed in advance.
It is tradition that the mother of the bride picks out her dress first. And then informs the mother of the groom what her dress looks like. This way the mother of the groom can pick out her dress in a complimentary color. Mothers should generally avoid choosing dresses in the same color as the bridesmaid dresses!
Key Takeaways. Choose a hairstyle that enhances your favorite features and works with your hair's natural texture. Consider a versatile low bun or half-up, half-down style for an elegant and effortless look. Don't forget to think about the weather and how long your hairstyle will need to last on the big day.
10 Fun and Unique Ways to Honor Your Mother at Your Wedding
Be on deck during the wedding.
If the couple is planning to have a receiving line, the mother of the groom (along with the father of the groom) should stand in it after the couple. If there's no receiving line, she'll want to go table to table to greet guests and thank them for attending—even ones she doesn't know.
The groom's parents can also walk down the aisle together, followed by the groom as he walks alone. Or the groom might opt to use one of the above options, such as walking down the aisle with both of his parents.
Here are a few things a mother-of-the-groom shouldn't do.
It's generally considered good practice for guests to avoid wearing the exact same color as the mother of the bride, unless specifically requested by the couple or agreed upon in advance. This gesture respects the unique position of the mother of the bride and ensures she remains a focal point of the celebration.
The dress style doesn't need to be extravagant, but it should reflect the formality of the occasion and the mother's personal style. A dress that is elegant and fitting for the wedding's theme ensures the mother of the groom will feel confident and comfortable.
Try blues, greens, purples, and neutrals such as navy, emerald, plum, or silver. These versatile—and universally flattering—palettes make it easy for mothers of the bride and groom to harmonize. With pale green and blue hues, we love silvery shades for Mom, while jewel tones pair well with other rich colors.
The groom's mother does not attend. A paternal or maternal uncle gives away the bride. The bride's father and other relatives attend, but her mother does not. It is believed that if the mothers are not present it will protect the bride and groom from the evil eye.
Dress Buying Traditions
Traditionally, the mother of the bride decides on her dress first and then informs the groom's mother. The mother of the groom can then get a dress that complements the mother of the bride dress on the wedding day.
The Best Colors for Mothers of the Groom to Consider
In general, jewel tones and earthy hues, like emerald green and burgundy, work well for more formal events taking place in the fall or winter. In the spring and summer, lighter, brighter hues, like pink, pale purple, or light blue, might feel more appropriate.
Key Takeaways. Avoid wearing white or ivory to prevent being mistaken for the bride on their special day. Steer clear of lots of glitter so the day stays focused on the couple, not your outfit. Even for casual weddings, denim is typically inappropriate unless specified by the couple.
Can the Mother-of-the-Groom Wear Black? It's perfectly fine for the mother-of-the-groom to wear black or any other color that contrasts with the bride's wedding dress. You'll be good to go if you don't wear white, ivory, off-white, or any shade similar to the bride's gown!
It's not customary for the groom's parents to give the bride's parents a gift at either the rehearsal dinner or the wedding. Traditionally, the groom's parents host and pay for the rehearsal dinner.
Manage Breakfast and Refreshments the Morning of the Wedding
Newman says that this is a great task to assign to the mother of the groom , particularly if she's participating in your getting-reading session.
Why is the Mother of the Bride seen as more important than the Mother of the Groom?