Mother of the Bride (or Groom!) style tips

I had so much fun styling this segment! We've been helping lots of women in their 40s, 50s and 60s dress for special wedding events this spring. I know it can feel stressful to find the perfect dress, so here is some inspiration along with our best tips and resources.

MODEL #1: LYNN

Formal & Fun: Kay Unger Franca Cascade Ruffle gown ($318, nordstrom.com) We visited Nordstrom in Downtown Seattle and worked with a personal stylist, Sandy to find the perfect look. Visit Nordstrom.com to book a free personal styling appointment; share style, fit and budget preferences and a stylist will pull various options and accessories. MODEL #2: JEANETTE Destination casual reception: Johnny Was Regina dress ($228, Sundancecatalogue.com) I’m hearing from a lot of women who are attending destination weddings in warmer areas: Mexico, Arizona, Texas. And many of these celebrations call for casual or festive attire. Sundance is a great resource for airy summer dresses that feel special without being too formal. MODEL #3: JOAN Cocktail attire: Lauren Ralph Lauren 3/4 sleeve jersey dress ($125, Macys.com) and Pashion customizable shoes (pashionfootwear.com) If the invitation calls for cocktail attire, that generally signals knee-length to midi length dresses (not full length gowns or maxi dresses). If I’m ever styling someone in a pinch (“Help! My event is tonight!”) I usually start with Lauren Ralph Lauren matte jersey dress, because they fit so well, look flattering on almost everyone, and they are super comfortable. I also think a soft blue is a universally great choice for Mother’s of Brides/Grooms. Blue complements almost every other color, and looks beautiful in photos. MODEL #4: PATTI Bridal Shower: Vince Camuto floral jumpsuit ($129, Macys.com) Rehearsal dinner: DKNY chiffon wrap dress ($129, Macys.com) Black tie wedding: Betsy & Adam gown Juliana gown ($279, betsyandadam.com) Mothers in a wedding party often need more than one outfit, because they host multiple events. I love a floral jumpsuit for a bridal shower and a strong solid color in a cocktail length for a rehearsal dinner. I’m often asked if it’s OK to wear black to a wedding and I say: Sometimes. Especially if the wedding is expressly black tie. Although, navy blue tends to look better in pictures, so I usually steer my clients away from black and into a dark blue. Betsy & Adam is a favorite resource for classic, stylish Mother of the Bride dresses.