MOB Dress Colors: How to Coordinate with the Wedding

Kate Willson
8 min readSep 19, 2023

--

Are you eagerly awaiting your daughter’s wedding day? As the mother of the bride, you’re likely pondering one major question: What should you wear that complements the wedding without stealing the spotlight from your daughter? It’s a common concern, and we’re here to help you navigate the world of color for mother of the bride dresses.

The initial guideline to keep in mind is to avoid any colors reminiscent of ivory, white, or champagne since these tones may outshine the bride’s dress. But rest assured, you have a wide array of splendid color choices to explore.

One fantastic approach to harmonizing your dress color is to seamlessly coordinate with the wedding theme. To assist you in this color-coordinating journey, we’ve prepared a practical guide that simplifies the process.

Understanding Color Themes

Before we delve into specific color choices, let’s understand the concept of color themes in weddings:

Wedding Color Themes

Importance: The chosen color palette or theme sets the tone and mood for the entire wedding event. It helps create a cohesive and visually pleasing atmosphere.

Variety: Wedding color themes can vary widely, from romantic pastels to vibrant, bold colors. They often reflect the couple’s personal style and preferences.

Coordination: Understanding the wedding theme is the first step in coordinating your outfit. It ensures that your attire aligns with the overall aesthetic and ambiance of the celebration.

Consider the Venue’s Color Scheme

Importance: The wedding venue plays a significant role in dictating the color choices that will harmonize with the surroundings.

Examples: Earthy tones such as sage green or terracotta might work best if the wedding is set in a lush garden with plenty of greenery. On the other hand, for a modern, sleek venue, contemporary and metallic colors like silver or bronze could be more suitable.

Visual Cohesion: Coordinating your dress color with the venue’s color scheme can create a visually cohesive and pleasing experience for both guests and photographs.

The Role of Season

Importance: The time of year during which the wedding takes place significantly influences color choices.

Seasonal Palette: Spring and summer weddings often feature lighter, brighter colors like pastels. These colors align with the freshness and vibrancy of these seasons. In contrast, fall and winter weddings tend to lean towards deeper, richer hues such as burgundy or navy blue to complement the cozy and festive atmosphere.

Harmony with Nature: Selecting colors that resonate with the season can create a natural harmony with the outdoor surroundings, whether it’s blooming flowers in spring or colorful leaves in autumn.

Understanding Your Daughter’s Dress:

Importance: The bride’s dress is the centerpiece of the wedding attire. It’s essential to have some insight into your daughter’s dress color to avoid unintentional color clashes.

Complementary Colors: Knowing the shade of your daughter’s dress can help you choose a color that complements it rather than competes with it. For instance, if she’s wearing a classic white gown, you may want to steer clear of any shades that resemble white, such as ivory or champagne.

By taking these factors into account and aligning your dress color with the wedding theme, venue, season, and the bride’s dress, you can ensure that you not only look your best but also contribute to the overall harmony and aesthetics of this special day.

Choosing the Perfect MOB Dress Color

Now that you have a good grasp of the color themes and factors to consider, let’s explore some elegant and harmonious color options for your mother of the bride dress:

1. Classic Neutrals

  • Navy Blue: A timeless favorite that complements most color palettes and exudes elegance.
  • Slate Gray: A sophisticated and versatile choice that works well in various settings.
  • Taupe: A soft, muted color that adds a touch of warmth without stealing the show.

2. Soft Pastels

  • Blush Pink: A delicate and feminine option that aligns perfectly with romantic wedding themes.
  • Lavender: A calming pastel that adds a touch of serenity to the occasion.
  • Powder Blue: A light and airy choice that suits spring and summer weddings.

3. Earthy Tones

  • Sage Green: Ideal for outdoor weddings and nature-inspired themes.
  • Terracotta: A warm, earthy hue that pairs beautifully with rustic settings.
  • Mocha Brown: A rich, earth-toned color that exudes comfort and sophistication.

4. Jewel Tones

  • Emerald Green: A bold and luxurious choice that makes a statement.
  • Sapphire Blue: A deep, regal color that adds a touch of drama to your look.
  • Ruby Red: A passionate and vibrant choice for a memorable appearance.

5. Metallic Accents

  • Gold: Adds a touch of glamour and pairs well with many color schemes.
  • Silver: A versatile metallic that works with both warm and cool tones.
  • Bronze: A unique and rich metallic that can stand out in the right way.

6. Muted and Dusty Tones

  • Dusty Rose: A vintage-inspired color that brings a sense of nostalgia.
  • Dusty Lavender: A muted, dreamy hue that adds a touch of mystery.
  • Dusty Blue: A romantic and subdued choice for an understated yet beautiful look.

7. Elegant Reds and Berries

  • Crimson: A deep and passionate red that radiates sophistication.
  • Berry: A rich and romantic hue that complements various wedding themes.
  • Burgundy: A regal color that adds a touch of opulence to your attire.

8. Timeless Black and White

  • Classic Black: A chic and timeless choice that works well for formal weddings.
  • Ivory: A soft and elegant alternative to pure white, suitable for both indoor and outdoor weddings.
  • Black and White: A combination of both colors in patterns or color-blocking can create a striking and sophisticated look.

9. Vibrant Citrus Shades

  • Lemon Yellow: A bright and cheerful color that adds a pop of sunshine to the celebration.
  • Tangerine: A lively and energetic shade that suits summer and tropical-themed weddings.
  • Lime Green: A fresh and zesty option for outdoor or garden weddings.

10. Serene Cool Tones

  • Aqua Blue: A calming and tranquil shade reminiscent of clear ocean waters.
  • Mint Green: A refreshing and soothing color that complements spring and summer weddings.
  • Lilac: A delicate and dreamy hue that evokes a sense of enchantment.

11. Subtle Metallics and Shimmers

  • Champagne Gold: A soft and luxurious metallic that exudes elegance.
  • Rose Gold: A romantic and trendy option with a touch of warmth.
  • Silver Sequins: For a touch of sparkle and glamour that catches the light beautifully.

12. Nature-Inspired Hues

  • Sky Blue: A light and serene color that mirrors the daytime sky, perfect for outdoor ceremonies.
  • Forest Green: An earthy and harmonious choice that complements woodland or rustic themes.
  • Sunset Orange: A warm and inviting hue that captures the beauty of a sunset.

By considering these color categories and the options within each, you can further expand your choices and find the perfect mother of the bride dress color that aligns with the wedding theme and your personal style.

Tips for a Perfect Match

Now that you’ve explored a range of color options for your mother of the bride dress, let’s delve into some valuable tips to ensure a perfect match with the wedding theme:

Consult with the Bride:

Talk to your daughter about her vision for the wedding and her preference for your dress color. Her input is essential in ensuring a cohesive overall look.

Swatch Matching :

Request fabric swatches from the bride or wedding planner to ensure your dress color coordinates seamlessly with the theme. This helps avoid any unexpected variations in shades.

Consider the Wedding Party:

Take into account the bridesmaids’ dress colors, as you’ll be in many photos together. Coordinating without matching exactly is often a good approach. Aim for a complementary color or a shade that harmonizes with the bridal party.

Accessories Matter:

Your accessories, such as jewelry, shoes, and clutch, can tie your look together with the wedding theme. Consider metallic or colored accessories that complement your dress.

Be Mindful of Patterns:

If your dress has patterns or prints, ensure they align with the wedding theme and don’t overpower it. Subtle, well-coordinated patterns can enhance your overall look.

Alterations and Customization:

Don’t hesitate to have your dress tailored or customized to perfectly match the wedding theme. A subtle embellishment or a color-coordinated belt can make a big difference in achieving a cohesive look.

Photography and Lighting:

Keep in mind that different lighting conditions can affect how colors appear in photographs. Consult with the photographer to understand how your chosen color will look in various settings, including indoor and outdoor venues.

Venue Decor:

Consider the decorative elements of the venue, such as table settings, floral arrangements, and backdrops. Ensure your dress color complements these elements to create a harmonious atmosphere.

Cultural and Regional Influences:

Depending on cultural or regional traditions, certain colors may hold special significance. Discuss with the bride and groom to respect any cultural or regional preferences in color choices.

Timeless vs. Trendy:

Decide whether you want a dress color that stands the test of time or one that follows current fashion trends. While trendy colors can be fun, timeless shades are more likely to remain fashionable in photographs for years to come.

Guest Dress Code:

Take into account any dress code guidelines provided by the couple. While you want to coordinate with the wedding theme, you should also adhere to any specified attire expectations.

Comfort is Key:

While focusing on color coordination, don’t forget about your comfort. You’ll be spending a significant amount of time on your feet, so choose a dress that allows you to move and dance with ease. Comfortable shoes are a must for enjoying the celebration.

Accessorize Thoughtfully

Your choice of accessories can significantly impact your overall look and how well it complements the wedding theme. Here are some accessory-related tips:

Jewelry Selection: Consider jewelry that complements both your dress color and the wedding theme. For example, if you’re wearing a dress in a classic neutral like navy blue, pearls or silver jewelry can add an elegant touch. For bolder colors like emerald green or ruby red, gold or metallic jewelry can make a statement.

Shoe Style: Your shoes should not only match your dress but also be appropriate for the wedding venue. For outdoor weddings, consider comfortable yet stylish wedges or flats. For indoor or formal venues, elegant heels or dress shoes may be more suitable.

Clutch or Handbag: Choose a clutch or handbag that complements your dress and provides enough space for your essentials. Opt for a design that aligns with the wedding theme, whether it’s a beaded clutch for a glamorous event or a simple satin one for a classic look.

Hair and Makeup Considerations

Your hairstyle and makeup can contribute to the overall harmony of your appearance with the wedding theme. Here’s how to make sure they align:

Consult a Professional: Schedule a trial session with a hairstylist and makeup artist who can create a look that enhances your dress and suits the wedding theme. Share your dress color and any theme-specific details during your consultation.

Hair Accessories: If the wedding has a specific theme, such as vintage or bohemian, consider incorporating theme-appropriate hair accessories. These can include floral crowns, vintage pins, or elegant headbands that tie your look together.

Makeup Palette: Work with your makeup artist to choose a makeup palette that complements your dress color and the overall theme. Soft, natural makeup works well for many themes, while bold colors or shimmer can enhance a more glamorous or modern look.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the perfect mother of the bride dress color involves a delicate balance between personal style and harmonizing with the wedding theme. Remember, the goal is not to outshine the bride but to complement her special day while looking and feeling your best. With careful consideration of the wedding theme, venue, and season, along with open communication with the bride, you’ll find the ideal dress color that makes you shine in a supportive, understated way on this joyous occasion. So what are you waiting for? Find the perfect color for mother of the bride dresses and slay in your daughter’s D-day.

--

--

Kate Willson

Fashion lover, blogger, and explorer💁‍♀️ Follow me for style inspiration, tips around Prom Dresses, Mother of Bride, etc. Watch my fashion-filled life.