This day is as important for the Mothers as it is for the wedding couple. The Mothers of the Bride and Groom should be the next best dressed~ after the bride.

Traditionally, the Mother of the Bride consults with the Bride and then selects her gown first, and her sense of formality leads the way. Following this tradition, the Mother of the Groom should collaborate with the Mother of the Bride to choose a dress similar in formality and complimentary in color.

Mothers should consult with the Bride prior to purchasing to make sure their selections suit the Bride's sense of style and color. Follow the Bride's cue. Some Brides will have strong feelings about this and others will have confidence in their mother's sense of style, allowing them to choose as they please.

Usually the same dress is worn for both the ceremony and the reception. However, we have seen Mothers wear one style of dress for the daytime wedding ceremony and another for an evening wedding reception. Again, consult with the Bride before purchasing. Either way, you'll want to look chic and classic, and you'll be more comfortable if the dress fits well.

Wedding events can be day-long events that last well into the night so choose something you'll feel comfortable wearing for 10 or 12 hours.

Here are a few tips to consider when purchasing a "mothers of" dress:

• Time frame for choosing and ordering a dress: minimum 6 months before the wedding. Special orders can take from 12-16 weeks.
• Consult with the bride on formality, color, length
• Mothers should collaborate to compliment each other
• Choose a style complimentary to your figure
• Remember these three words and you can’t miss: Chic, Classic, Comfortable