Fresh style tips for the mother-of-the-bride

Mother of the bride >

All eyes might be on the bride, but that doesn't mean mom can't dress to impress. Here are five ways mothers of the bride and groom can look and feel their best on your big day.

Make a statement

“The mother is the second most important woman at a wedding,” says Marissa Rubinetti Sanders, senior buyer for special occasion dresses at David's Bridal. Moms should look dressier and wear a non-black color to stand out from other guests.

Coordinate with the bridal party

Mom's going to be in a lot of pictures, so it's important she doesn't clash or match the bridal party. “We always say neutrals work best for the mom,” says Rubinetti Sanders. Think blush, silver, charcoal, taupe, navy or eggplant.

Age-appropriate comfort

A long dress can help mom stand out from other guests, but a shorter knee-length dress works for an informal wedding. The dress should have some stretch either in the lining or the overall fabric, so she can move and eat without being uncomfortable.

Classic coverage

Skip the old MOB jacket dress. If she’s looking for extra coverage, try three-quarter sleeves or a chiffon caplet. Illusion sleeves, yokes and skirts also provide fashionable, on-trend coverage that can make her look pretty and fabulous.

Finishing touches

Mom should leave the hairpieces at home and keep her hairstyle classic and elegant. “Hairpieces tend to make the mom look overdone for a wedding,” says Jackie Litscher, senior stylist at Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa, New York City.

To get skin in top condition for a glowing look, prep skin three months beforehand with a twice-daily routine of cleansing, toning, applying serum and moisturizing.

Tags: Brides365, wedding, mother of the bride, bridal party, comfort, classic, makeup, skin care, hairstyles