Accessories for the Mother of the Bride: The Finishing Touch (2024)

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One of the biggest mistakes mothers make is in breathing a sigh of relief once they have decided upon their dress, and completely forgetting about the accessories. Accessories are to a mother's dress what a frame is to a painting. It completes the picture and draws the eye in.

TV Personality, Dress Consultant

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Accessories for the Mother of the Bride: The Finishing Touch (1)

As a co-owner and dress consultant at T. Carolyn Fashions, I navigate the front lines of family conflict -- helping moms look great and satisfying the bride's often strident opinions. Even with 21 years in the business and 100,000 dresses sold, dressing a mother of the bride can be more challenging than dressing the actual bride!

Accessories -- The Finishing Touch!

One of the biggest mistakes mothers make is in breathing a sigh of relief once they have decided upon their dress, and completely forgetting about the accessories. Accessories are to a mother's dress what a frame is to a painting. It completes the picture and draws the eye in.

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Jewelry: Necklaces and earrings add sparkle around the face as mothers walk down the aisle and are viewed at the reception. The proper earring can bring out cheekbones and showcase bone structure, actually giving a lift to the face. The perfect necklace can frame the face and even elongate the upper torso. If a mother chooses to wear an asymmetrical neckline or a one-shoulder gown, great earrings paired with an oversized bracelet will truly make a statement. In addition, there's nothing like the sparkle of crystals to bring out and enhance hand-beading and sewn crystals on dresses and gowns.

Purse: Mothers should not forget to carry a purse. Not only does a chic clutch look smart, it has the added bonus of keeping the mother's arm in check as she's escorted down the aisle. Most importantly, it is invaluable for carrying all those little necessities (such as a handkerchief, compact, and lipstick) needed for drying tears and touching up after the ceremony, before additional photo are taken. For the mother who doesn't want to wear a corsage, flowers may be attached to the purse as an elegant alternative.

Shoes: Comfortable shoes are a must. For those with serious foot problems, it is perfectly acceptable to slip into a second more comfortable pair at the reception. If a gown is being worn, it is important to check before hand to make sure the hem will still be the proper length if changing into a lower heel. This will avoid possible tripping and damage to the gown itself. Speaking of damage, if a shoe with rhinestones is chosen, make sure to check to see if the stones are set in prongs. These prongs will snag and tear the hemline of a gown. If this occurs, the only way to salvage the gown is to convert it into a short dress.

If you want to delve further into the exciting world of weddings, tune into Mother of The Bride airing back-to-back episodes every Friday at 9 and 9:30 p.m. on SliceTM.

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Accessories for the Mother of the Bride: The Finishing Touch (2024)

FAQs

What does mother of the bride carry down the aisle? ›

Tradition calls for corsages to be given to mothers of the bride and groom. For a different approach, pin a flower in her hair or give her a small nosegay to carry.

How do I make my mother of the bride stand out? ›

Accessorize: Accessories can take your look to the next level. A statement necklace, earrings, and a stylish clutch are all great ways to add a touch of glamour to your outfit. Remember you don't want to blend in with the guests. You are a VIP at your daughter's wedding and your outfit needs to reflect that.

How not to look matronly as mother of the bride? ›

What we recommend you wearing for a daytime wedding, is a swing or tea dress. As we mentioned earlier, this style of dress is one sure to stand the test of time, while ensuring you look quite the opposite of matronly.

Does the mother of the bride carry her purse down the aisle? ›

The mother of the bride can wear a handbag or opt out of it, the choice is her own!

What does the mother of the bride give her daughter? ›

Handing down a family heirloom to your daughter on her wedding day is a powerful gesture that connects her to her roots and family history. Whether it's an exquisite piece of jewellery, a time-honoured art, or a treasured family artefact, the sentimental value of a vintage gift is unmatched.

Who walks down the aisle first the mother of the bride or the mother of the groom? ›

Parents. Again, the couple's parents may or may not walk down the aisle (they can also just take their seats as the procession begins). Traditionally, the groom's parents will go first, followed by the mother of the bride, but the couple may choose to be escorted down the aisle by one or both of their parents.

Who walks with the bride's mother? ›

The mother of the bride is traditionally escorted by her son if she has one. Otherwise, any close male relative, the best man, or a groomsman walks with the mother of the bride during the procession.

Does the mother of the bride give the bride a gift? ›

Yes, it's traditional for the parents of the bride to give her a gift on her wedding day, such as jewelry, money, or something sentimental. This is a way for parents to show their love and wish her well as she starts her new life.

What color is the mother of the bride's dress supposed to be? ›

The most popular color for the mother of the bride to wear is navy or a royal blue, followed by blush or a shade of nude. It's safe to say that you should never wear white and shy away from the overall color family unless the bride instructs you to wear a certain shade. Traditionally, another color to avoid is red.

What should a mother of the bride not wear? ›

Any color that flatters you, as long it is not black, white, ivory, or anything CLOSE to the color of the bridal gown. You might also take into account the color of the bridesmaids dresses. Don't match their color, but try to harmonize with it. If possible, also consider the mother of the bride's dress.

How fancy should the mother of the bride be? ›

These days, virtually anything goes—formal gown, short or long dress, skirt-and-jacket ensemble—so long as it matches the style of the wedding. Brides can be very helpful by encouraging "the moms" to work together in choosing their outfits.

What color dress should the mother of the bride not wear? ›

There's not one specific color the mother of the bride should wear. But unless you've received approval from the couple, it's best to steer clear from white, ivory or champagne hues as not to take attention away from the bride.

Does the mother of the bride have any duties? ›

As the mother of the bride, it is one of your responsibilities to act as a hostess at the wedding and reception to make sure the guests are comfortable. So, on the day, make sure you welcome guests, ensure everyone is looked after.

Does the groom dance with the mother of the bride? ›

The groom may also dance with the mother of the bride. Next, the bride's mother and father dance together. The groom dances with his mother, and then the groom's parents dance together. The dance floor then opens up to the bridesmaids and groomsmen.

What does the mother of the bride pay for in a wedding? ›

Traditionally, the bride's family assumed most of the financial costs associated with a wedding, including the wedding planner, invitations, dress, ceremony, reception, flowers, photography, and music.

Does mother of the bride carry a bouquet? ›

Mothers and Grandmothers

It's important to remember family members on your wedding flower list. Traditionally, mothers and grandmothers will wear a corsage with two or three blooms, worn either on the wrist or pinned to their left lapel. Alternatively, they can carry a miniature bouquet or a single stem.

What does the mother give the bride? ›

Wedding cards, photographs, a special perfume, invitations—so many keepsakes come out of a bride's wedding day. A timeless and feminine trunk to hold your daughter's precious wedding mementos makes the perfect mother-to-bride gift idea for any sentimental bride.

Do mother of the bride get corsages or bouquets? ›

Where you might not necessarily consider a Bouquet a suitable adornment for your mother on your Wedding Day, a Wedding corsage can be a wonderful alternative — an opportunity to include your mother visually in the flower ensemble you choose for yourself, and your Bridal Party, without necessarily handing her a full ...

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