You will be photographed from the first look to the last dance. You will stand, sit, greet, hug and host for the better part of a day. And you want to look like yourself on one of the most important days of your family's life.
A three-piece trouser set (an open-front cardigan, a matching top and wide-leg trousers) is one of the most practical choices for the mother of the bride. It suits most dress codes below black tie, stays comfortable over a long day and adapts as the temperature changes. Choose a colour that sits with the wedding palette without matching the bridesmaids, avoid white, ivory and champagne unless the couple asks for them, and agree on formality with the mother of the groom.
From the La Signora Edit
What does the mother of the bride traditionally wear?
The invitation sets the level. For black tie, a floor-length look is expected. For cocktail or semi-formal weddings, jacket dresses, dressy jumpsuits and pantsuits are all appropriate. Tradition also says the mother of the bride chooses her outfit first, and the mother of the groom follows, so the two complement rather than clash.
Beyond that, the modern rule is simple: involve the couple, then wear what makes you feel confident. It is your day to be seen too.
Can the mother of the bride wear trousers?
Yes. Pantsuits and trouser sets are appropriate mother of the bride outfits, and for a daytime or outdoor wedding they are often the more comfortable choice. A three-piece set works particularly well because each piece does a job:
- The open-front cardigan gives coverage for the ceremony and comes off for the reception, so you can adjust to air-conditioning, sun and the evening chill without changing outfits.
- The matching top keeps the look finished when the cardigan is off.
- Wide-leg trousers create one long vertical line in photographs and move easily when you are walking, dancing or sitting through speeches.
Because the colour runs from shoulder to hem, the look reads as considered and complete, which is exactly what you want in formal family photos.
Which colours should the mother of the bride avoid?
White, ivory and champagne are the colours to avoid unless the couple specifically asks for them. Black is a matter of taste and setting: some etiquette guides say it is fine for a black-tie evening wedding once you have checked with the bride, others advise against it altogether. If you are unsure, navy or a deep jewel tone gives you the same elegance without the question.
You do not need to match the bridesmaids. Aim to sit inside the wedding's palette, one shade deeper or softer than the bridal party, so you look connected without looking like part of the lineup.
How to choose a colour from the La Signora Edit
Start with the wedding's season, setting and palette, then choose the set that complements it.
| If the wedding is | Consider | Why it works |
|---|---|---|
| Soft and romantic, spring or garden | Dusty Rose Floral, Mauve Floral, Blush Pink Colour-Block | Soft florals and pinks sit beside pastel bridal palettes without competing |
| Evening, jewel tones or formal | Navy Baroque, Teal and Gold Marble, Violet Swirl, Burgundy with Floral Top | Deep colour photographs richly under evening light |
| Neutral, relaxed or country | Dove Grey and Gold, Caramel Leaf, Taupe Abstract | Quiet tones that look expensive and let the bride stand out |
| Summer, bright or coastal | Cobalt Blue, Turquoise Mandala, Bottle Green Leaf | Clear colour that holds up in bright sun |
More from the La Signora Edit
How should a three-piece trouser set fit?
- Trouser length: wear the shoes you plan to wear on the day when you try the set on. A wide-leg trouser looks best when the hem skims the top of the shoe.
- Cardigan: it should fall straight from the shoulder and sit comfortably across the back when you raise your arms.
- Size: the La Signora Edit runs from S (AU 10) to 4XL (AU 22). If you are between sizes, check the size guide on the product page before ordering.
How to coordinate with the mother of the groom
Talk early. Share a photo of your outfit once you have chosen it, and agree on the level of formality: if one of you is in a floor-length gown and the other in a day dress, it shows in every family photo. You do not need to match, but sitting in the same colour family, at a similar depth, looks deliberate. Avoid wearing the exact same colour.
Shoes and accessories for a long day
You will be on your feet for hours, so choose support first and height second. A low block heel or a cushioned Mary Jane gives you polish without the aching feet by the reception. Keep the bag structured and small, in a tone pulled from the print.
Shop shoes and bags
See all comfort shoes and women's bags.
When should the mother of the bride start shopping?
Once the couple has set the dress code and palette, and early enough to try the outfit with your shoes and make any alterations. Every LURADI order is dispatched within 1 to 3 business days and delivered 6 to 10 business days from dispatch, with tracking the whole way. For guest outfits and the full list of Australian wedding dress codes, see our wedding dress code guide.
Frequently asked questions
Can the mother of the bride wear trousers?
Yes. Pantsuits and trouser sets are appropriate for most dress codes below black tie, and they are often more comfortable over a long day.
What colour should the mother of the bride not wear?
White, ivory and champagne, unless the couple asks for them. Black divides opinion, so check with the bride first.
Does the mother of the bride have to match the bridesmaids?
No. It looks better to sit within the wedding palette, a shade deeper or softer than the bridal party.
Who chooses first, the mother of the bride or the mother of the groom?
Traditionally the mother of the bride chooses first and shares her choice, so the mother of the groom can complement it.
What shoes should the mother of the bride wear?
Something supportive that you can stand in for hours: a low block heel, a cushioned Mary Jane or a slingback with a low heel.
Written by the LURADI Style Desk: styling notes from the team behind LURADI, an online fashion boutique for occasion dresses, heels and refined menswear.
