The Sabrina is proof that one dress can take on completely different personalities depending on how you style it. Its clean black silhouette makes it easy to accessorize, while the fringe hem adds just enough movement and personality to keep it from feeling basic.

We styled The Sabrina three different ways—Western, Art Deco-inspired, and Classic—to show how easily it can work for different events, dress codes, and personal styles.

Shop the Sabrina dress here →

Look One: Western-Inspired

The fringe on The Sabrina naturally lends itself to a Western-inspired look, making this styling especially fun for a rehearsal dinner, welcome party, or event with a subtle Western theme.

We paired it with tall neutral boots, a soft tan bag, and a silver lariat necklace. The warm accessories soften the black dress while still letting the fringe feel intentional. It gives the look a Western influence without turning it into a costume.

This is a great option when the invitation calls for something festive, a little unexpected, and still polished.

Look Two: Art Deco Glamour

Fringe immediately brings to mind the movement and glamour of the 1920s, so for our second look we leaned into an Art Deco-inspired direction.

Gold heels, layered pearls, and an embellished evening bag transform The Sabrina into a much dressier look. The accessories add sparkle and texture while the simple shape of the dress keeps everything balanced.

It feels celebratory and slightly vintage without being overly themed—perfect for a cocktail party, rehearsal dinner, holiday event, or evening wedding celebration.

Look Three: Classic Black + Silver

For the final look, we kept everything clean and classic so the fringe could be the focal point.

Silver heels, a metallic clutch, and simple crystal earrings complement the black dress without competing with it. Instead of adding another statement element, the accessories quietly finish the look and allow the movement at the hem to stand out.

This styling is timeless, easy, and incredibly versatile—ideal when you want to feel dressed up without feeling overdone.

The best part about The Sabrina is that the dress itself doesn’t need to change. A few accessories can take it from Western rehearsal dinner to Art Deco cocktail hour to classic evening dressing, making it the kind of piece you can wear again and again in completely different ways.

An easy, stress-free guide to finding a Mother of the Bride or Groom dress when you don't love shopping.

If the thought of shopping for a mother of the bride or groom dress makes you want to put it off for another month, you're not alone.

Maybe you don't love trying on dresses. Maybe you haven't worn a formal gown in years. Or maybe you've already spent hours scrolling through hundreds of dresses online, and nothing feels quite right.

Here's the good news: Finding your dress doesn't have to be overwhelming. You don't need to try on 50 gowns, visit every boutique in town, or completely reinvent your personal style. 

You just need to know where to start!

1. Start With What You Actually Like to Wear

Before you start shopping, forget about what you think a mother of the bride or groom should wear.

Instead, think about the clothes you already feel comfortable and confident in.

Ask yourself:

• Do I prefer dresses that are fitted or flowy?

• Do I feel more comfortable with sleeves?

• Do I gravitate toward simple, classic styles?

• Are there certain necklines I always feel good wearing?

• Do I prefer to show my waist or have a straighter silhouette?

If you've always preferred clean lines and simple silhouettes, there's no reason your wedding-day dress needs to be covered in lace, sequins, or beading.

The goal is to find something that feels like you, just a little more dressed up.

2. Narrow Down Your Options Before You Start Shopping

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is looking at everything.

When you're faced with hundreds of styles, colors, and fabrics, it's easy to become overwhelmed and start second-guessing yourself.

Instead, decide on just three things before you begin:

Length: Does the wedding call for a floor-length gown, midi dress, or cocktail dress?

Coverage: Would you prefer sleeves, a sleeveless style, or something that can be worn with a shawl or wrap?

Silhouette: Do you like a classic A-line, a straight column shape, or something with a more defined waist?

Once you've answered these questions, you've already eliminated dozens of options that probably weren't right for you anyway.

And remember, you don't need to try on a dress you already know you won't like.

3. Don't Get Too Caught Up in Finding the Perfect Color

We often hear from mothers who have spent months searching for a very specific shade of blue, green, or champagne.

While it's important to respect the couple's preferences and any requested dress code, don't let finding an exact color become the reason you can't find a dress.

Start with a general color family. If the bride prefers blue, for example, consider navy, periwinkle, slate blue, or a softer blue-gray, depending on the wedding's overall look.

A dress in a slightly different shade that fits beautifully and makes you feel confident is often a much better option than a dress in the exact color that you don't love wearing.

If you're unsure, narrow it down to two or three options and share those with the bride rather than asking her to weigh in on every dress you find.

4. Don't Expect Every Dress to Fit Perfectly Off the Rack

This is something we wish more women knew before they started shopping.

Most formal dresses benefit from some alterations.

A gown may need to be hemmed, the straps adjusted, or the waist taken in slightly. That doesn't mean it's the wrong dress!

When trying on a gown, focus on the overall silhouette, how the fabric feels, and whether you like the design.

Ask yourself whether a few adjustments would make it feel just right.

Of course, not everything can be altered easily, so it's important to speak with an experienced seamstress before purchasing a dress that requires significant changes.

A beautifully tailored dress can make all the difference in how comfortable and confident you feel.

5. You Don't Have to Wear Something You Would Never Normally Choose

One of the most common things we hear from mothers is:

"I just don't feel like myself in these dresses."

And we understand.

For years, traditional mother of the bride and groom shopping has often centered around heavily embellished gowns, lace, and elaborate details.

But that's not your only option.

A simple, beautifully constructed gown can be every bit as appropriate for a formal wedding.

Look for thoughtful details like a beautiful neckline, flattering pleats, a softly draped sleeve, or a timeless silhouette.

You can also dress up a simple gown with beautiful earrings, a special handbag, or shoes you love.

Sometimes, less really is more.

6. Try Shopping Somewhere That Understands Mothers

If you've had frustrating shopping experiences, it might not be that you hate dresses.

You might simply be shopping somewhere that doesn't understand what you're looking for.

Look for a boutique or designer that regularly works with mothers of the bride and groom.

They'll understand common concerns, whether that's wanting to cover your arms, finding a bra-friendly neckline, choosing a comfortable fabric, or deciding how formal your dress should be.

At Camilyn Beth, we work with mothers who want to look elegant without feeling overdone.

Our gowns are designed with classic silhouettes, thoughtful details, and comfort in mind. We offer styling assistance, in-store alterations, and a Try-On at Home program so you can explore options in a way that works for you.

You don't have to figure everything out on your own.

7. Once You Find a Dress You Love, Stop Looking!

This might be our most important piece of advice.

When you find a dress that fits well, feels comfortable, works for the occasion, and makes you feel like yourself, give yourself permission to be finished shopping.

Continuing to look at hundreds of other dresses often creates unnecessary doubt.

There will always be another gown, another color, or another option online.

But finding something you genuinely feel good wearing is what matters most.

And remember, the wedding day isn't about finding the most elaborate dress in the room. It's about celebrating someone you love.

Our Final Advice: Make Dress Shopping Simple

If you're dreading shopping for your mother of the bride or groom dress, start small.

Choose a silhouette you like, consider a few colors, and focus on finding something comfortable that feels like you.

You don't have to love shopping to find a dress you love.

And when the wedding day arrives, you should be thinking about the celebration, the family photos, and dancing with your son or daughter, not adjusting an uncomfortable gown all evening.

The right dress should let you enjoy the moment, not distract you from it.

The rehearsal dinner is the perfect opportunity for the mother of the bride or groom to wear something polished, comfortable, and a little different from her wedding-day look.

The Holly is especially easy to style for the occasion. Its clean sheath silhouette feels classic, while the sheer cape overlay adds movement and just enough coverage to make the dress feel special without being overly formal.

We styled The Holly three different ways to show how the same dress can work for three completely different rehearsal dinner settings.

Shop the Holly dress here →

Look One: Classic with Pearls

For the first look, we kept The Holly timeless and feminine with pearl drop earrings, a cream clutch, and metallic gold heels.

The soft accessories complement the light periwinkle color and let the cape detail remain the focus. This combination feels elegant without looking too formal, making it a beautiful choice for a rehearsal dinner at a country club, hotel, private dining room, or traditional restaurant.

Look Two: Relaxed and Resort-Inspired

For a more relaxed rehearsal dinner, we styled The Holly with statement gold floral earrings, a woven clutch, and neutral block-heel sandals.

The natural texture of the bag immediately gives the dress a lighter, more destination-inspired feel, while the earrings keep the outfit special enough for the occasion.

This would be a great look for a waterfront dinner, garden venue, resort wedding, or outdoor rehearsal dinner. 

Look Three: Modern in Silver

The third look gives The Holly a cleaner, more modern feel with crystal drop earrings, a sculptural silver clutch, and metallic silver heels.

The cool silver tones pair beautifully with the periwinkle and create a slightly dressier evening look without adding too much.

This styling would be especially pretty for a modern restaurant, rooftop dinner, cocktail-style rehearsal, or evening celebration.

Why The Holly Works So Well for a Rehearsal Dinner

One of the best things about The Holly is that it already does much of the styling for you.

The clean sheath underneath keeps the silhouette simple and flattering, while the sheer cape overlay adds softness, movement, and arm coverage without feeling heavy. Because the dress itself is so streamlined, you can completely change its personality with accessories.

For mothers of the bride or groom, that makes The Holly an easy choice for a rehearsal dinner: classic enough for the occasion, comfortable enough to enjoy the evening, and versatile enough to style in a way that feels like you.

And if your wedding-day look needs to coordinate with a specific color palette, the rehearsal dinner is also a great opportunity to wear a color or styling direction you simply love.

Shop the Holly dress here →

Finding the right dress for your son's wedding is a big decision, but the shoes you wear can make just as much of a difference in how you feel throughout the day.

As the mother of the groom, you may be on your feet for hours between photos, the ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, and dancing. The goal is to find a shoe that feels polished and special without choosing something you’ll be desperate to take off before the reception even begins.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for the perfect pair.

Start With Comfort

This is probably the most important consideration.

A wedding day is long, and even if you normally feel comfortable in heels for dinner or an event, wearing them for six, eight, or even ten hours can feel very different.

Look for shoes with:

• A heel height you already know you’re comfortable wearing

• Cushioning through the sole

• A secure ankle strap or slingback

• Enough room through the toe box

• A stable heel rather than an extremely narrow stiletto

You don’t necessarily have to wear a flat to be comfortable. A lower block heel or kitten heel can still feel very dressy while giving you much more stability.

Consider the Wedding Venue

Before falling in love with a shoe, think about where you’ll actually be wearing it.

For an indoor ballroom or church wedding, you have much more flexibility with heel shape.

For an outdoor ceremony, garden wedding, or venue with grass, gravel, or uneven walkways, a wider heel, wedge, platform, or flat is usually much easier to walk in.

A beautiful shoe isn’t very useful if you spend the entire ceremony trying not to sink into the lawn.

You Don’t Have to Match Your Dress Exactly

One of the most common questions we hear is whether shoes need to match the dress.

They absolutely do not.

In fact, choosing a coordinating neutral often feels more modern than trying to find the exact same shade as your gown.

Metallic tones are especially helpful for special occasion dressing. Champagne, soft gold, silver, pewter, and neutral satin can work beautifully with colors like navy, periwinkle, blush, berry, green, black, and teal.

Think of the shoe as part of the overall look rather than something that has to disappear into the dress.

Think About How Much of the Shoe Will Show

If you’re wearing a full-length gown, only a small portion of your shoe may actually be visible.

That means comfort can take priority.

If you’re wearing a cocktail or midi-length dress, your shoes become a much bigger part of the outfit. This can be a fun opportunity to choose something with a beautiful pointed toe, bow, metallic finish, embellishment, or interesting heel.

Buy Your Shoes Before Your Dress Is Hemmed

This is an important one.

If your gown needs hemming, always bring the shoes you plan to wear to your alterations appointment.

Even a difference of one or two inches in heel height can completely change where the dress falls.

If you aren’t completely sure which pair you’ll wear, bring the tallest option you’re seriously considering so your seamstress can help determine the right length.

Don’t Experiment With a Heel Height You Never Wear

Your son or daughter’s wedding probably isn’t the best time to suddenly become a four-inch-heel person.

If you normally wear flats or low heels, there are plenty of beautiful special occasion options that will still feel elegant.

The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident walking, standing, and dancing.

Your shoes should support the way you naturally move rather than make you feel like you have to carefully navigate the entire day.

Break Them In Before the Wedding

Even the most comfortable shoes can benefit from a test run.

Wear them around your house for a few evenings before the wedding. You’ll quickly discover if there are areas that rub, pinch, or need a little extra cushioning.

This also gives you time to add inserts, heel grips, or blister protection before the wedding day.

Consider Bringing a Second Pair

If you love the look of a certain heel but know you won’t want to dance in it all night, there is nothing wrong with bringing a second pair.

The key is choosing a backup shoe that still works with your dress.

Instead of an everyday flip-flop, consider a polished flat, embellished sandal, or lower heel that still feels appropriate for the occasion.

The Best Shoe Is the One You Forget You’re Wearing

Ultimately, the right shoe is the one that works with your dress, your venue, and your personal style while allowing you to enjoy the wedding.

You should be able to walk into the ceremony, stand for photos, mingle with guests, and dance with your son or daughter without spending the entire day thinking about your feet.

Choose something beautiful, but choose something that feels like you, too.

Because when you look back at the wedding, you want to remember the moments—not the shoes that hurt.

Finding the dress may feel like the biggest decision, but the right shoes can make just as much of a difference on the wedding day.

As the Mother of the Bride or Groom, you’ll likely be on your feet for hours-walking into the ceremony, taking family photos, greeting guests, and hopefully spending plenty of time on the dance floor. Your shoes need to work with your dress, but they also need to work for you.

The good news? Comfortable does not have to mean boring.

We rounded up some of our favorite shoe styles for mothers of the bride and groom, whether you want something classic and easy, a little extra height, or just enough sparkle for the occasion.

Shop all of our shoe recommendations on LikeToKnowIt → 

Classic & Understated

Sometimes the simplest option really is the best one.

A classic heel in a neutral metallic, nude, black, or coordinating color works with almost any Mother of the Bride or Groom dress. Look for clean lines, a manageable heel height, and a style that won’t compete with your gown.

These are especially great if your dress already has an interesting neckline, bow, ruffle, print, or statement accessory.

Our biggest advice: choose something you already know you’ll feel comfortable walking in.

Our Favorite Classic & Understated Picks:

Platforms

If you love a little height but don’t love the feeling of walking in a very high heel, a platform can be a great solution.

Because the front of the shoe is elevated too, a platform can give you height without creating quite as dramatic of an angle through the foot.

They can also be especially helpful with longer gowns when you need a little extra height to get the hem exactly where you want it.

One important tip: bring the shoes you plan to wear to your alterations appointment. Even a small difference in heel height can completely change the finished length of your gown.

Our Favorite Platforms:

Closed Toe

Prefer a little more coverage? A closed-toe pump is always a beautiful choice.

Closed-toe shoes tend to feel especially polished for fall and winter weddings, black-tie celebrations, church ceremonies, and more traditional venues.

A pointed or softly almond-shaped toe can feel elegant without looking too corporate, particularly in satin, suede, metallic, or a color that coordinates with your dress.

And no, your shoes do not have to match your dress perfectly. Sometimes a soft neutral or metallic is actually the easier and more timeless choice.

Our Closed-Toe Picks:

Something With Sparkle

If there is ever an occasion for a little sparkle, this is it.

A crystal, rhinestone, metallic, or embellished shoe can be a really fun way to add personality to an otherwise simple look.

If your gown is classic and understated, let your shoes be the unexpected detail.

You also don’t have to go overboard. A crystal buckle, embellished strap, or subtle shimmer can give you just enough interest without taking away from your dress.

Think of it almost like jewelry for your feet.

Our Favorite Sparkle Shoes:

Flats

There is absolutely no rule saying the Mother of the Bride or Groom has to wear heels.

If you feel most like yourself in flats, wear flats.

A pointed-toe flat, slingback, embellished ballet flat, or dressy metallic style can look every bit as appropriate with a formal gown.

Flats are also worth considering if the wedding involves grass, cobblestones, lots of walking, or a long evening of dancing.

And even if you plan to wear heels for the ceremony, keeping a beautiful pair of flats nearby for later in the evening is never a bad idea.

Our Favorite Flats:

A Few Things to Consider Before Choosing Your Shoes

Purchase your shoes before your final alterations so your gown can be hemmed to the correct length, and wear them around the house ahead of time to make sure they’re comfortable.

For a little extra support, try shoe inserts, heel grips, or cushioned pads. They can make a big difference when you’ll be standing, walking, and dancing for hours. 

Choose the Shoes You’ll Actually Enjoy Wearing

Your shoes should complement your dress, but they should also allow you to enjoy the day.

You want to be able to walk confidently, stand comfortably, and dance without spending the entire reception thinking about your feet.

Whether that means a simple block heel, a platform, a sparkling sandal, a classic pump, or your favorite pair of flats, choose the option that makes you feel comfortable and polished.

Because the best wedding-day shoe is the one you can forget you’re wearing.

Shop our complete Mother of the Bride & Groom shoe edit on LikeToKnowIt → 

Finding your Mother of the Groom gown is exciting, but finding the dress is often only the first step.

One of the biggest things we remind mothers when shopping for a gown is this: it does not need to fit perfectly right off the rack.

In fact, most formal gowns will need some type of alteration before the wedding day. Whether it is a simple hem, taking in the waist, adjusting a shoulder, or refining the overall fit, alterations are a completely normal part of buying a special-occasion dress.

And they can make all the difference.

Don’t Expect a Gown to Fit Perfectly Off the Rack

Formal gowns are made using standard size charts, but every woman’s body is different.

You may need one size for your bust and another for your waist or hips. You may be petite through the shoulders but need additional room elsewhere. You may love the silhouette but need the waist taken in slightly.

That does not mean the dress is the wrong dress.

When you are trying on gowns, focus first on the things that are much harder to change:

• Do you love the overall silhouette?

• Do you feel like yourself in it?

• Is the color right?

• Do you like the neckline, fabric, and overall design?

• Can you comfortably sit, walk, hug, and dance?

A good tailor can refine the fit, but alterations cannot completely transform the fundamental design of a gown.

Buying the Right Size Matters

When you fall between sizes, it is generally easier for a tailor to take a gown in than to create additional room where there is not enough fabric.

This is especially important through the bust, shoulders, armholes, and hips.

Do not be discouraged if the size you purchase is different from the size you normally wear in everyday clothing. Formalwear sizing can vary significantly between designers.

The number on the tag is far less important than how the gown fits your body.

What Alterations Might a Mother of the Groom Gown Need?

Every gown and every woman is different, but common alterations include:

Hemming the length
One of the most common alterations, particularly with full-length gowns.

Taking in the waist or hips
A little shaping can completely change how polished a gown feels.

Adjusting the shoulders
Shoulders that are slightly too long or straps that need shortening can often be corrected.

Refining the bust
A tailor may be able to adjust the bodice for a cleaner, more supportive fit.

Adjusting sleeves
Sleeves can sometimes be shortened or narrowed depending on the construction of the garment.

Sometimes a dress only needs one small adjustment. Other times, several subtle changes work together to create the final fit.

Your Shoes Matter More Than You Think

Bring the shoes—or at least shoes with the same heel height—you plan to wear to your fitting.

Even an inch of difference can affect where your hem should fall.

If you have not chosen your exact wedding shoes yet, decide on your preferred heel height before your gown is hemmed.

And remember: this is going to be a long day. Comfort matters.

Bring Your Undergarments to the Fitting

The bra, shapewear, or other undergarments you wear can dramatically change the fit of a gown.

Whenever possible, bring the exact undergarments you plan to wear on the wedding day to your alteration appointment.

This allows your tailor to fit the gown based on how you will actually be wearing it.

Start Alterations Earlier Than You Think

We recommend leaving plenty of time between purchasing your gown and the wedding.

Alterations sometimes require more than one fitting, and good tailors can become especially busy during peak wedding seasons.

Ideally, your gown should be purchased several months before the wedding so you are not rushing through alterations at the last minute.

Your final fitting will usually happen closer to the wedding once the majority of the work has been completed.

Why Alterations Are So Important

There is a major difference between a beautiful dress and a beautiful dress that has been properly fitted.

Even small alterations can change the way a gown sits on your body, how comfortably you move, and ultimately how confident you feel wearing it.

A well-fitted gown should not feel overly tight or restrictive. It should skim your body properly, stay in place, and allow you to move naturally throughout the day.

You will be standing for photographs, greeting guests, hugging family members, sitting through dinner, and hopefully spending plenty of time on the dance floor.

Your gown should work with you through all of it.

Don’t Judge the Dress Before It Is Altered

This may be one of the most important things to remember.

When trying on a gown that is slightly too long, loose through the waist, or not sitting perfectly through the shoulders, it can be difficult to visualize the finished result.

Try not to dismiss a dress solely because it needs tailoring.

Sometimes the difference between “I’m not sure” and “this is perfect” is simply a hem, a slightly defined waist, and a few thoughtful adjustments.

The Goal Is a Dress That Feels Like It Was Made for You

Alterations should not change who you are in the dress. They should simply help the dress fit you the way it was intended to.

As the Mother of the Groom, you are going to be part of some of the most photographed and meaningful moments of the wedding day.

You deserve to feel comfortable, confident, and completely yourself.

So when you find a gown you love, do not worry if it needs a little work.

That is exactly what alterations are for.

Shopping for a Mother of the Groom dress can come with a unique set of questions.

You want to feel beautiful and comfortable, but you also want to be respectful of the bride’s vision for the wedding. And if you are not especially close with the bride yet, it can sometimes feel awkward figuring out how much input to ask for.

The good news is that the conversation does not need to be complicated.

A little communication at the beginning can help you shop with confidence and avoid overthinking every color, neckline, and silhouette.

Start With the Overall Wedding Vision

Before you start shopping, ask the bride for a little direction.

You do not need a list of exact rules. You simply want to understand the overall tone of the wedding.

A few helpful things to ask about are:

• The wedding color palette
• The level of formality
• Any colors she would prefer you avoid
• Whether she wants the mothers to coordinate
• Whether there is a specific overall look she has in mind

That information is usually enough to point you in the right direction without making the dress feel overly controlled.

Ask for Guidance, Not Approval

There is an important difference between wanting to coordinate with the bride and feeling like you need permission for every decision.

You are still the person wearing the dress.

Your gown should make sense for the wedding, but it should also feel comfortable, flattering, and true to your personal style.

You can keep the conversation simple by saying something like, “I’m starting to look for my dress and wanted to make sure I’m going in the right direction. Are there any colors or styles you would prefer I stay away from?”

That gives the bride an opportunity to share what matters to her without putting the entire decision in her hands.

Find Out What the Mother of the Bride Is Wearing

Traditionally, the Mother of the Bride may choose her dress first, but that does not mean the two mothers need to wear similar dresses.

It can still be helpful to know what she has chosen.

You may want to coordinate in terms of formality, but there is no need to match exactly.

If the Mother of the Bride is wearing navy, for example, you might choose teal, berry, champagne, periwinkle, or another complementary color.

The goal is simply for both mothers to feel appropriate for the same event.

Do Not Feel Like You Have to Match the Bridesmaids

One of the most common questions Mothers of the Groom have is whether they need to match the bridal party.

Usually, no.

You should coordinate with the wedding colors, but you do not need to look like another bridesmaid.

In fact, choosing a complementary color rather than the exact bridesmaid color can help you feel more distinguished while still looking cohesive in photographs.

Do Not Send the Bride Every Dress You Try On

It can be tempting to send photos throughout the entire shopping process, especially if you are worried about making the wrong choice.

But too many options can make the decision harder for both of you.

Instead, shop first.

Narrow your choices down to two or three dresses you truly like, then send those to the bride if you would like her opinion.

This keeps the conversation focused and helps ensure you are only asking for feedback on dresses you would actually be happy wearing.

Tell Her What Matters to You Too

The bride may be focused on the overall look of the wedding, while you are thinking about what you need from your dress.

Maybe you want sleeves.

Maybe you need a bra-friendly neckline.

Maybe you want something lightweight because the wedding is outdoors.

Maybe you simply do not feel like yourself in heavily embellished formalwear.

It is perfectly reasonable to communicate those preferences.

You can absolutely choose something that works for the wedding while still working for you.

If the Bride Says “Wear Whatever You Want”

Sometimes the bride genuinely does not have strong preferences.

If that is the case, take her at her word.

You can still make a thoughtful choice by considering the venue, season, formality, and general wedding palette.

You do not have to create rules where there are none.

Choose something that feels appropriate for the occasion and that you feel confident wearing.

Keep the Conversation Easy

The dress should not become a stressful part of your relationship with the bride.

If you have found something you love and want her opinion, keep the conversation simple.

You might say:

“I found a dress I really love and think it works well with the wedding. I wanted to send it to you before I make my final decision.”

That is respectful, thoughtful, and does not make the dress feel like a major negotiation.

Remember What the Day Is Really About

Your dress matters, but it is only one part of the day.

The bride is likely much more interested in having you there celebrating with her and your son than she is in whether your dress is one shade darker than she originally pictured.

Choose something that complements the wedding, communicate when necessary, and then trust your decision.

The best Mother of the Groom dress is one that allows you to feel comfortable, confident, and completely present for the celebration.

If you’re shopping for a mother of the groom dress and one of your first thoughts is, “I just want something that covers my arms,” you’re far from alone.

Arm coverage is one of the most common requests we hear from mothers of the groom. The good news is that wanting a little more coverage does not mean you have to limit yourself to a traditional long-sleeve gown.

There are plenty of ways to feel comfortable and confident while still choosing something that feels modern, elegant, and like you.

First, Decide How Much Coverage You Actually Want

Before narrowing your search to dresses with sleeves, think about what kind of coverage would actually make you feel comfortable.

Do you want your entire arm covered? Is it mainly the upper arm? Would a sheer or softly draped layer be enough? Or would you simply like the option to cover your arms for the ceremony and photos?

Sometimes women begin shopping convinced they need a full sleeve when what they really want is just a little more coverage around the shoulder and upper arm.

Knowing that can open up many more options.

Look for Sleeves That Still Feel Light

If you know you’ll be most comfortable in a dress with sleeves, look for silhouettes that offer coverage without feeling heavy.

Three-quarter sleeves are especially flattering because they cover the upper arm while still showing the wrist, which keeps the look polished and feminine.

Flutter sleeves, draped sleeves, sheer sleeves, and cape-style sleeves can also provide coverage while still allowing movement.

Ideally, the sleeve should feel like an intentional part of the design rather than something added simply to hide your arms.

Consider a Cape or Cape-Style Overlay

A cape is one of our favorite options for mothers of the groom who want additional coverage.

A lightweight cape or draped overlay can softly cover the shoulders and upper arms without the restriction of a fitted sleeve.

It also creates beautiful movement, which is especially nice during a wedding when you’ll be walking, hugging family members, taking photos, and dancing.

A cape-style silhouette gives you coverage while still keeping the overall look clean and elegant.

For a fabulous cape recommendation, CLICK HERE.

Don’t Rule Out Sleeveless Dresses

It may seem surprising, but sometimes the best dress for someone who wants arm coverage is actually a sleeveless dress.

A simple sleeveless gown gives you the flexibility to add coverage in a way that works for the wedding.

A coordinating shawl, wrap, cape, or bow wrap can be worn during the ceremony, dinner, and family photos and then removed later in the evening.

It also gives you more freedom when shopping instead of eliminating every dress that doesn’t have sleeves.

Choose a Wrap That Looks Intentional

There’s a difference between carrying a shawl because you’re cold and wearing one as part of your outfit.

If arm coverage is important to you, look for dresses that have a coordinating wrap, cape, or accessory available in the same or complementary fabric.

This makes the entire look feel thoughtful and finished.

Instead of wrapping the shawl tightly around yourself, try draping it over your shoulders so that it frames the dress. Think of it as part of your styling rather than something you need to hide behind.

For a great shawl recommendation, CLICK HERE.

Pay Attention to the Neckline and Shoulders

Sleeves aren’t the only thing that affects how comfortable you feel in a dress.

The neckline and shoulder detail can make a big difference in the overall proportions of the look.

A beautiful collar, interesting neckline, structured shoulder, or soft draping can draw the eye upward and create balance.

Sometimes the right neckline and silhouette can make you feel much more comfortable without needing your arms completely covered.

Ask What Alterations Are Possible

If you find a dress you love but wish it offered slightly more coverage, ask whether alterations are possible.

Depending on the construction of the dress, a seamstress may be able to adjust the sleeve length, create a coordinating wrap, or make another small change that gives you the coverage you’re looking for.

Not every sleeveless dress can simply have sleeves added, but it’s always worth asking before ruling out a silhouette you love.

Think About the Entire Wedding Day

Your mother of the groom dress needs to work for much more than the ceremony.

You may be wearing it while getting ready, greeting guests, taking family photos, sitting through dinner, hugging your son, and spending plenty of time on the dance floor.

Make sure your sleeves or added coverage allow you to comfortably move your arms.

When you try on your dress, move around in it. Sit down. Reach your arms forward. Lift them. Pretend you’re dancing.

A dress should look beautiful while also allowing you to enjoy the day without constantly adjusting it.

You Don’t Have to Hide Your Arms to Feel Beautiful

Most importantly, try not to let one area of your body determine your entire dress search.

If having your arms covered makes you feel more comfortable, there are beautiful ways to achieve that. But you may also be surprised by how much you love a sleeveless dress once you find the right silhouette, fit, and styling.

The goal isn’t simply to find a dress that covers your arms.

It’s to find a dress that makes you stop thinking about your arms altogether.

You should be able to hug your son, take the family photos, raise your glass, and dance the night away without spending the evening worrying about your dress.

Looking for a Mother of the Groom Dress With a Little More Coverage?

Explore Camilyn Beth gowns with sleeves, cape details, coordinating wraps, and buildable accessories designed to help you create a look that feels comfortable, elegant, and completely your own.

Shop Mother of the Groom Gowns →

Shopping for a Mother of the Groom dress comes with plenty of questions, but one of the biggest is often: What color am I actually supposed to wear?

The good news is that the rules are much more relaxed than they used to be. The Mother of the Groom does not need to perfectly match the bridal party, coordinate exactly with the Mother of the Bride, or choose a color based on an old-fashioned etiquette rule.

The goal is simply to choose something that feels appropriate for the wedding and still feels like you.

That said, there are a few colors worth thinking twice about before saying yes to the dress.

Should the Mother of the Groom Avoid White?

In most cases, yes.

White, ivory, cream, and very pale champagne are traditionally reserved for the bride. Even if the dress itself does not look bridal, a very light color can photograph much lighter than expected.

There are exceptions, of course. Some brides specifically ask their mothers to wear ivory, champagne, or another neutral as part of the wedding palette.

If that is the case, go for it.

Otherwise, when in doubt, choose a color with a little more contrast.

What About Champagne?

Champagne can be beautiful for the Mother of the Groom, but this is one color we recommend checking with the bride first.

Champagne can range from deeper gold and beige tones to shades that photograph almost ivory.

A richer champagne, taupe, bronze, or warm metallic may feel completely appropriate, while a very pale champagne could look closer to the bride's gown.

The easiest solution? Send the bride a photo before you purchase it.

Can the Mother of the Groom Wear Black?

Absolutely.

The idea that mothers should avoid black is fairly outdated. A black gown can be incredibly elegant, especially for an evening, formal, or black-tie wedding.

If you are worried about it feeling too dark, accessories can completely change the look. Consider adding metallic shoes, statement earrings, a colorful wrap, or a beautiful handbag.

Black is also a great option if you want something classic that you know you will wear again.

Should the Mother of the Groom Match the Bridesmaids?

Not necessarily.

You do not need to wear the exact same shade as the bridal party unless the couple specifically asks you to.

In fact, choosing a coordinating color rather than an exact match often photographs beautifully.

For example, if the bridesmaids are wearing dusty blue, the Mother of the Groom could wear navy, periwinkle, teal, or even a complementary neutral.

If the bridesmaids are wearing burgundy, you might consider rose, berry, evergreen, or navy.

Think coordinated, not matching.

Should the Mother of the Groom Avoid the Same Color as the Mother of the Bride?

There is no rule saying the mothers cannot wear the same color.

If both of you love navy, wear navy.

The dresses themselves will likely be different enough in silhouette, fabric, and styling that you will still have your own look.

That said, if wearing completely different colors makes everyone more comfortable, it is worth having a quick conversation before purchasing.

You do not need to coordinate every detail. A simple text saying, "I'm leaning toward navy, have you picked your color yet?" is usually enough.

Are Bright Colors Okay?

Yes.

There is no reason the Mother of the Groom has to stick with muted neutrals.

Fuchsia, teal, berry, periwinkle, emerald, ocean blue, and other saturated colors can be beautiful choices, particularly if those are the colors you naturally feel best wearing.

The wedding's season can help guide you, but it does not have to dictate your decision.

A jewel tone can work in spring. A light blue can work beautifully in fall. Classic colors are surprisingly seasonless.

The One Color Rule That Matters Most

If the bride or couple has specifically asked the mothers to avoid a certain color, respect that request.

Beyond that, there are very few hard rules.

Your dress should complement the overall wedding without making you feel like you are wearing a costume.

If you never wear beige, you do not suddenly need to wear beige because you are the Mother of the Groom.

If you always feel amazing in blue, start there.

If black is your favorite color, it can absolutely be appropriate.

Ask the Bride...But Don't Make Her Choose Your Dress

It can be helpful to get the bride's input, especially if you are considering white, champagne, or a color very close to the bridesmaids.

But try not to send her 15 different dresses and ask her to make the final decision.

Instead, narrow it down to your top two or three choices.

It gives the bride an opportunity to flag anything that may conflict with the wedding colors while still allowing you to choose something that feels like yourself.

What Colors Work Well for the Mother of the Groom?

If you are not sure where to start, some of the most versatile options include navy, periwinkle, light blue, teal, evergreen, berry, burgundy, rose, champagne, and black.

More important than the specific color is how you feel wearing it.

You will be greeting guests, taking family photos, sitting through the ceremony, enjoying dinner, and hopefully spending plenty of time on the dance floor.

Choose something you feel comfortable and confident wearing for all of it.

The Bottom Line

So, what colors should the Mother of the Groom avoid?

Unless the bride has given specific instructions, there are really only a few colors that require extra consideration, particularly white, ivory, and very pale champagne.

Everything else depends on the wedding, the bridal party, and most importantly, what you feel good wearing.

You do not need to perfectly match anyone.

You do not need to dress like a bridesmaid.

And you do not need to choose a color you would never normally wear simply because you are the Mother of the Groom.

Choose a color that works with the wedding—and still feels like you.

Ready to Find Your Mother of the Groom Dress?

[SHOP MOTHER OF THE GROOM GOWNS]

When you’re shopping for a fall or winter wedding, so much attention naturally goes toward the wedding-day look. But the rehearsal dinner is another opportunity to choose something beautiful  and often, it’s the moment when you have a little more freedom to wear exactly what you want.

For mothers of the bride and groom, the rehearsal dinner look should feel special without feeling overly formal. Think classic, comfortable, polished, and easy to wear through dinner, introductions, speeches, and all of those moments leading up to the wedding day.

Let the Rehearsal Dinner Look Feel More Like You

On the wedding day, you may be working within a particular color palette selected by the bride. Maybe you’ve been asked to wear navy, champagne, blue, green, or another shade that coordinates with the wedding party.

The rehearsal dinner is a wonderful time to step outside of that color scheme.

If you normally love wearing black, wear black. If a rich berry, burgundy, chocolate brown, emerald, or deep blue makes you feel your best, this is your chance to choose it.

You’ll still want your look to feel appropriate for the occasion, but it doesn’t necessarily have to coordinate with the wedding colors.

In fact, choosing a completely different color can help each outfit feel like its own moment rather than simply becoming an extension of your wedding-day look.

Your Son Probably Won’t Remember the Flowers in 20 Years. He’ll Remember Dancing With You.

There are so many details that go into a wedding day the flowers, the tables, the invitations, the seating chart, the favors. They all help create a beautiful celebration.

But years from now, those probably won’t be the moments your son remembers most.

He’ll remember seeing you walk into the room. He’ll remember the hug before the ceremony. He’ll remember looking across the reception and seeing you laughing with family. And he’ll remember dancing with you.

Which is why what you wear should do more than simply look beautiful.

It should let you be part of the day.

So Buy the Dress You Can Actually Move In

When you’re shopping for a mother of the groom dress, it can be easy to focus entirely on how it looks standing still.

Does it photograph well? Is it the right color? Does it feel formal enough? Does the neckline work?

Those things matter, but so does what happens once the wedding actually begins.

You’ll be walking, sitting, hugging, reaching, raising your arms for photos and, hopefully, spending plenty of time on the dance floor.

A beautiful dress isn’t very useful if you spend the evening pulling it up, adjusting the neckline or worrying about whether you can comfortably sit down.

The best dress is the one you can put on and then almost forget about.

Try the Dance Test

When you try on your dress, don’t just stand in front of the mirror.

Move.

Raise your arms. Sit down. Walk around the room. Turn from side to side. Give someone a hug. And yes, dance in it for a minute.

You’ll quickly notice whether the dress moves with you or whether you’re going to spend the wedding adjusting it.

Pay attention to the little things, too. Are the armholes comfortable? Can you lift your arms without the entire dress shifting? Does the skirt give you enough room to walk naturally? Can you sit without feeling restricted?

Those details can make a much bigger difference after six hours in a dress than they do during a five-minute fitting.

Comfortable Doesn't Have to Mean Casual

There’s sometimes an assumption that a formal dress has to feel restrictive to look elegant.

It doesn’t.

A beautifully cut gown can still have structure, shape and polish while giving you room to move. In fact, when you’re comfortable in what you’re wearing, you often look even better because you’re not thinking about the dress.

You’re thinking about the moment.

That’s especially important for mothers of the bride and groom. You aren’t simply another wedding guest. You’re going to be photographed, introduced, hugged and pulled onto the dance floor all night long.

Your dress should be able to keep up.

Choose the Dress You Want to Live the Day In

Of course you want to love how your dress looks in the photographs.

But think beyond the photograph.

Picture yourself walking into the ceremony. Sitting through dinner. Hugging your son. Talking with friends you haven’t seen in years. Standing beside your family. Dancing when your favorite song comes on.

Ask yourself:

Do I feel like myself in this?

Can I move comfortably?

Will I still want to be wearing this dress at 10 p.m.?

If the answer is yes, you’re probably getting much closer to the right dress.

Because twenty years from now, the flowers may be a little fuzzy.

But that dance?

You’ll both remember that.

So buy the dress you can actually move in.

The Amelia Gown is a perfect example of how one classic dress can take on a completely different personality depending on the accessories you choose. Its clean champagne satin and timeless silhouette make it easy to style in a way that feels personal to you and appropriate for the occasion.

For a classic and polished look, pair it with silver drop earrings, a sleek silver sandal, and a metallic clutch. If you want something a little warmer and more glamorous, gold accessories add richness and make the champagne tone feel especially elegant. For a more modern, statement-making look, pearl earrings, crystal-detailed shoes, and a black pearl-trimmed bag create beautiful contrast.

Styling your dress in different ways is also a reminder that you do not need a completely different gown for every type of event. The right shoes, jewelry, and handbag can shift the entire feel of a look from understated and sophisticated to glamorous or modern, while still allowing the dress itself to remain timeless.

Being the Mother of the Groom is a special role, but that does not mean you need to dress like someone else.

One of the most common things we hear from mothers is:

“I want to look appropriate for the wedding, but I still want to feel like myself.”

That is exactly how it should be.

Your dress should feel special enough for your son's wedding while still reflecting your personal style. You should not feel like you are wearing a costume simply because the label says “Mother of the Groom.”

Start With What You Already Know You Love

Before worrying about wedding colors, bridal party dresses, or what the Mother of the Bride is wearing, think about the clothes you naturally feel best in.

Do you usually prefer:

• Clean, simple silhouettes?
• Dresses with sleeves?
• A defined waist?
• A-line shapes?
• More tailored styles?
• Minimal detail rather than lace or beading?
• A little personality through a bow, ruffle, or unique neckline?

Those preferences are a great place to start.

If you rarely wear heavily embellished clothing, your son's wedding may not be the day you suddenly feel most comfortable in sequins and beading.

Look for the dressier version of your own style.

Don't Shop for the Title

Sometimes the phrase “Mother of the Groom dress” creates more pressure than it should.

There is no single silhouette, color, fabric, or level of embellishment that makes something a Mother of the Groom dress.

You are simply looking for a beautiful dress that works for:

you + the venue + the dress code + the importance of the occasion.

That might be a long gown for a formal evening wedding, a cocktail-length dress for an afternoon ceremony, or a clean, modern silhouette for a contemporary celebration.

The goal is not to look like the stereotypical Mother of the Groom.

The goal is to look like you at your most dressed up.

Let the Wedding Guide You, Not Completely Define You

The wedding details matter, but they do not have to determine every part of your look.

Think about:

The venue: Is it a ballroom, garden, resort, church, beach, or private estate?

The time of day: An evening wedding may call for a different look than an afternoon ceremony.

The dress code: Black tie, formal, cocktail, destination, or something more relaxed?

The wedding colors: You may want to complement the palette without matching the bridesmaids exactly.

Use those details as a framework.

Then bring your own personal style into that framework.

You Don't Have to Match the Mother of the Bride

This is one area where Mother of the Groom shopping can become unnecessarily stressful.

You do not need to match the Mother of the Bride.

Traditionally, the Mother of the Bride selected her dress first and then shared the color and level of formality with the Mother of the Groom. Today, it can be much more relaxed.

It is helpful to know the general color and formality of her dress so the two looks feel appropriate for the same wedding, but you are two different women.

Your dresses should not look identical.

A simple conversation about color, length, and formality is usually enough.

Simple Does Not Mean Boring

We often hear mothers say that the bride has asked them to wear something “simple.”

Simple does not mean plain, forgettable, or underdressed.

Beautiful fabric, an interesting neckline, thoughtful tailoring, a flattering silhouette, or one special detail can make a simple dress feel incredibly elegant.

A clean gown with a beautiful collar, bow, or ruffle can have just as much presence as something covered in embellishment.

Sometimes more.

Choose a Silhouette You Feel Comfortable In

There is no reason to wear something that makes you uncomfortable all day.

If you know you prefer having your arms covered, look for sleeves or consider a sleeveless dress that can be paired with a coordinating wrap.

If you feel best with a defined waist, choose a silhouette that gives you one.

If you always gravitate toward A-line dresses, you do not need to force yourself into a fitted column gown simply because it is trending.

You will be photographed, hugging family members, sitting through dinner, walking around the venue, and probably spending plenty of time on the dance floor.

Comfort matters.

When you feel comfortable, you usually look more confident too.

Don't Build Your Entire Look Around What You Want to Hide

Dress shopping can quickly turn into focusing on every area of your body you want to conceal.

Instead, try asking:

What do I want to highlight?

Maybe you love your shoulders.

Maybe you feel great when your waist is defined.

Maybe a certain neckline makes you feel elegant.

Maybe you love your legs and prefer cocktail length.

Thinking about what you enjoy about your body can be much more helpful than building your entire outfit around what you want to cover.

Think About How You Want to Feel

Before you start shopping, ask yourself:

How do I want to feel at my son's wedding?

Elegant?

Modern?

Understated?

Classic?

Confident?

Feminine?

A little whimsical?

Those words can be surprisingly helpful.

If you know you want to feel classic and sophisticated, you can eliminate many options immediately.

If you want something modern and simple, that gives you another clear direction.

Your dress should support how you want to feel that day.

You Don't Have to Match the Bridesmaids Either

You may want your dress to coordinate with the wedding palette, but coordinating does not mean matching.

If the bridesmaids are wearing light blue, you might choose navy, teal, periwinkle, or another complementary shade.

If they are wearing blush, you might prefer berry, rose, burgundy, or a sophisticated neutral.

You are part of the wedding, but you are not another bridesmaid.

Your dress can reflect that.

Add Personality Through the Details

If you find a dress that fits beautifully but feels a little too simple, accessories can completely change the look.

A coordinating wrap, shawl, bow, cape, belt, handbag, or piece of jewelry can make a simple gown feel much more personal.

This is also a wonderful way to create versatility.

You might wear a wrap during the ceremony and remove it for the reception, giving you two slightly different looks without changing dresses.

Stop Searching When You've Found the Right Dress

It is easy to assume there must always be something better.

But if you put on a dress and:

you feel comfortable, you feel confident, it works for the wedding, and you still feel like yourself...

you may already have your answer.

You do not need to try every Mother of the Groom dress available before you are allowed to make a decision.

Sometimes the right dress is simply the one that makes you stop thinking about the dress.

The Best Mother of the Groom Dress Still Feels Like You

Your son's wedding is an incredibly meaningful occasion, and you deserve to feel special too.

But special does not have to mean completely different.

At Camilyn Beth, we believe the best Mother of the Groom dresses are the ones that feel elevated, beautifully made, and appropriate for the moment—without losing the woman wearing them.

You should still recognize yourself when you look in the mirror. Just a little more dressed up.

Ready to Find Your Dress?

Explore Camilyn Beth gowns designed for mothers who want to feel like themselves, just a little more dressed up.

One of the most common questions we hear from mothers is: When should the Mother of the Groom start shopping for her dress?

Our general recommendation is to start looking about 6 to 8 months before the wedding.

Starting early gives you time to understand the formality of the wedding, explore different colors and silhouettes, and find something that feels appropriate for the occasion without feeling rushed.

Why 6 to 8 Months Before the Wedding Is a Good Time to Start

Mother of the Groom dress shopping can sometimes feel a little uncertain because you may be waiting on details from the bride, the bridal party, or the Mother of the Bride.

But you don't need to have every detail figured out before you begin looking.

Starting 6 to 8 months before the wedding gives you time for:

• Finding a silhouette that feels like you

• Choosing a color that works with the wedding

• Ordering your size if needed

• Scheduling alterations

• Selecting shoes and accessories

• Coordinating with the Mother of the Bride

• Making adjustments without feeling pressured by the wedding date

The goal is to give yourself enough time to enjoy the process instead of turning it into a last-minute decision.

When Should the Mother of the Groom Actually Buy Her Dress?

Ideally, we recommend purchasing your dress about 4 to 6 months before the wedding.

That gives you plenty of time for alterations and any final styling decisions.

Even when a dress fits well off the rack, special-occasion dresses often benefit from small adjustments. A hem, waist adjustment, shoulder alteration, or slight change in length can make a big difference in how the dress feels.

However if you find a dress you love.. no matter the timeline... you should get it to ensure it does not sell out. In special occasion wear this happens quite a bit and we hear so many women tell us " I found the perfect dress but I sent it back and now its sold out"... when this happens it can be stressful so go with your instincts and if you love it go for it!

Does the Mother of the Groom Have to Wait for the Mother of the Bride?

Traditionally, the Mother of the Bride selected her dress first and then shared the color and formality with the Mother of the Groom.

Today, it does not need to feel quite so formal.

We generally recommend having a simple conversation about the overall look of the wedding. Knowing the Mother of the Bride's general color, dress length, and level of formality can be helpful, but the two mothers do not need to match.

In fact, they should each choose something that feels true to their own personal style.

You are attending the same wedding, but you are two different women. Your dresses can coordinate without looking alike.

What Color Should the Mother of the Groom Wear?

There is no single color the Mother of the Groom is required to wear.

Instead, think about the overall wedding palette and choose something that complements it without trying to match the bridesmaids exactly.

Navy, blue, green, berry, burgundy, soft pink, teal, and other sophisticated tones can all work beautifully depending on the season and setting.

If you are unsure, asking the couple whether there are any colors they would prefer you to avoid can make the decision much easier.

Is There Such a Thing as Shopping Too Early?

Sometimes.

If the wedding is more than a year away and the venue, season, formality, or wedding colors have not been established yet, you may want to wait before making a final purchase.

You can still start looking at different silhouettes and figuring out what makes you feel most comfortable.

Then, once the wedding details are a little more settled, you will already have a good idea of what you are looking for.

If those details are already decided on you should be OK to shop a year before the wedding. Its always better to get started early than waiting too late.

What If the Wedding Is Only a Few Months Away?

You still have options.

If you are shopping 2 to 3 months before the wedding, focus on dresses that are currently available in your size and allow enough time for alterations.

If the wedding is only a month or two away, look for a dress that already fits well and requires minimal changes.

The closer you get to the wedding, the more helpful it is to keep the process simple.

Don't Feel Like You Have to Look Like a "Mother of the Groom"

One of the biggest things we hear from women is that they don't want to feel matronly or overly traditional.

You don't need to choose a dress simply because it has been labeled a "Mother of the Groom dress."

Look for something that feels appropriate for the wedding while still feeling like you.

That might mean a simple gown with beautiful tailoring.  The title of Mother of the Groom should not determine your personal style.

Our Favorite Timeline

If you want an easy guideline, we recommend:

6–8 months before: Start shopping and figuring out what you like.

4–6 months before: Purchase your dress.

6–8 weeks before: Begin alterations.

2–4 weeks before: Final fitting, shoes, accessories, and any last styling details.

Then you can check one more thing off your wedding list.

The most important thing is finding something that feels special enough for your son's wedding while still feeling completely like yourself.

At Camilyn Beth, we design dresses for women who want to feel like themselves, just a little more dressed up.