Mother of the bride or groom dresses: what to choose?

Being the mother of the bride or groom is an emotional and meaningful role, blending heartfelt support with the grace of a formal occasion.

A discreet yet key presence, offering support through every stage of the wedding, both behind the scenes and in emotional moments.

That’s why choosing the right dress is so important: it should reflect who we are, without outshining the couple, yet still ensuring we don’t fade into the background.

Mother’s dress styles to choose in 2025

The 2025 ceremony trends reinterpret classic codes with contemporary sensitivity, offering solutions suited to different styles and physiques.

The belted shirt dress is making a comeback, along with long yarn-dyed taffeta gowns, both nodding to 1950s elegance with a modern, tailored twist.

The deep pleats amplify the movement of the skirt, while the jewel buttons add sparkle and sophistication.

If you prefer lightweight fabrics with a more ethereal presence, the pure silk crêpe de Chine dress is an impeccable choice.

The elegant A-line flows gently over the body without clinging, while the sash tie at the collar adds a polished, vintage-inspired detail.

The sleeves feature openings and ties that add movement and a playful touch, making this dress perfect for daytime or warm-weather weddings.

With its vintage charm, the A-line flatters all body types, perfect for curvy hips, undefined waists, or fuller busts, thanks to its balanced, slimming design.

The triacetate cady dress gets a modern update: a sculptural knot with a neckline cutout creates a chic focal point, while zippered cuffs add a sleek, contemporary touch.

The lightly padded shoulders give structure and a graceful posture.

Finally, for a show-stopping yet elegant choice the duchess satin dress with floral embroidery strikes the perfect balance of style and etiquette. Minimalist in shape but rich in detail, it stands out with clean lines and a modern vibe.

The yoke is fully adorned with hand-applied fabric and jet flowers, while raised textures beautifully embellish the neckline. The ideal pick for anyone seeking a formal dress that is both elegant and eye-catching.

MR_MEDIATEXT_B_DESKTOP_Journal - Marina Rinaldi

Mother of the bride or groom dresses: what is the etiquette?

Etiquette calls for elegance with restraint, not self-denial. There’s still plenty of room to show style and personality. With the right advice and a selection that suits every shape, personality and setting, every mother can find a dress that feels true to herself, while keeping the focus where it belongs.

One of the most frequently asked questions is whether the formalwear dress for the mother of the bride should be long or short. There’s no single answer: a lot depends on the tone of the ceremony, the time and the place.

For an evening wedding or a particularly formal one, a long dress is undoubtedly an elegant and logical choice for the mothers of the bride and groom as well.

Conversely, for daytime ceremonies, a midi or above-the-knee style may be more appropriate.

Colour matters too: etiquette advises steering clear of pure black and white, opting for blush, powder blue, sage green or soft pastels instead.

It’s always wise to coordinate with the couple and future in-laws to keep the colours harmonious in photos.

CAROSELLO_CARD_Journal_2 - Marina Rinaldi

Suit or trousers for the mother of the groom? The answer is YES

Many mothers wonder if it’s appropriate to wear a trouser suit to their son or daughter’s wedding.

The answer is yes, if the suit is elegant and made of quality fabrics. Tailored suits are back in the spotlight this year, updated with slim cuts: straight or slightly flared trousers, often paired with deconstructed jackets or silk blouses with bright details.

Crêpe, cady or stretch Mikado versions guarantee hold and lightness, even in the most structured fits.

A trouser suit shines when paired with an embroidered jacket, silk blouse or top made from a luxurious fabric.

Complete the look with thoughtfully chosen accessories: metallic sandals, statement earrings, and sculptural clutches to ensure the mother of the bride or groom can fully express her style as part of the celebration.