What does the mother of the bride get ready in?

The mother of the bride typically wears a smart dress, a trouser suit, or a skirt and top in a colour that complements the wedding theme. There is no rule that she must wear a hat, though many choose one for a church or formal ceremony. She should pick something she feels confident in and that suits the season and venue.

She usually gets ready at her own home, at the bride's home, or at the wedding venue if the couple has booked getting-ready rooms. Many families arrange for hair and makeup artists to visit, so she may get ready alongside the bride and bridal party. If she prefers a quieter start, she can get ready alone and arrive later.

Practical things matter too. She should wear comfortable shoes if there is lots of standing, and bring a small bag with touch-up makeup, tissues, and a phone. She should also have a shawl or jacket in case the venue is cool. The main thing is that she feels at ease, because her calm presence helps the whole morning run smoothly.