When should the mother of the bride buy her dress? Ideally, you should start shopping around 6 to 8 months before the wedding, giving yourself enough time to explore different styles, coordinate with the wedding colors, place your order, and arrange any necessary alterations.
However, the best time to shop depends on the wedding date, dress availability, whether you are ordering a custom-made design, and how much time you need for fittings. Starting early gives you more choices and helps avoid last-minute stress.
This mother of the bride dress shopping timeline explains when to begin looking, when to place your order, how to coordinate with the mother of the groom, and what to do if the wedding is approaching quickly.
When Should the Mother of the Bride Buy Her Dress?
The mother of the bride should ideally begin shopping 6 to 8 months before the wedding and aim to have her dress selected and ordered around 4 to 6 months before the celebration.
This is a practical guideline rather than a strict rule. Some dresses are available for quicker delivery, while made-to-order and custom designs may require additional production and shipping time. Alterations can also take several weeks, depending on the complexity of the changes and the local tailor's schedule.
Here is a quick overview:
- 8 months before: Start researching dress styles, colors, and wedding dress codes.
- 6–7 months before: Begin trying on dresses and comparing designs.
- 4–6 months before: Ideally select your dress and place your order.
- 2–3 months before: Check delivery progress and arrange alterations if needed.
- 1 month before: Complete final fittings and coordinate accessories.
- 1–2 weeks before: Try on the complete outfit and make sure everything is ready.
If you are ordering a custom-made dress, check the seller's current production and delivery estimates before purchasing. Do not assume that every design has the same turnaround time.
Mother of the Bride Dress Shopping Timeline: A Month-by-Month Guide
8 Months Before the Wedding: Start Researching Styles and Colors
Eight months before the wedding is a good time to begin exploring your options without feeling pressured to make an immediate decision.
Start by discussing the wedding's overall style and formality with your daughter. A formal evening celebration, garden wedding, beach ceremony, and rustic outdoor reception may call for very different dress styles.
Consider the following questions:
- Will the wedding be formal, semi-formal, or casual?
- Will the ceremony take place indoors or outdoors?
- Is there a specific wedding color palette?
- Will the wedding take place during spring, summer, fall, or winter?
- Do you prefer a long gown, tea-length dress, elegant pantsuit, or coordinated two-piece outfit?
- Would you prefer sleeves, a jacket, a cape, or a more minimalist silhouette?
This is also a good time to create a collection of inspiration photos. Save dresses you like and note the details that appeal to you, such as neckline, sleeve length, fabric, color, and silhouette.
6–7 Months Before the Wedding: Begin Trying on Dresses
Once you have a general idea of the wedding style and your preferred look, begin trying on dresses. Shopping at this stage gives you time to compare different silhouettes and discover what feels comfortable and flattering.
Try several styles rather than limiting yourself to one type of dress. For example, you might compare:
- A-line gowns: A versatile silhouette that offers a balanced, elegant shape.
- Chiffon dresses: Lightweight and flowing, especially suitable for spring and summer weddings.
- Lace dresses: A timeless choice for romantic, traditional, or garden celebrations.
- Sequin gowns: Beautiful for formal evening weddings and celebrations that call for a little glamour.
- Mother of the bride pantsuits: A sophisticated alternative for women who prefer a tailored look.
- Three-piece outfits: A practical option when you want additional coverage or styling flexibility.
Think about comfort as well as appearance. You will probably spend many hours standing, walking, sitting, greeting guests, and taking photographs. Your dress should allow you to enjoy the celebration comfortably.
Explore our Mother of the Bride Dresses Collection to discover elegant gowns and occasion outfits in a variety of styles.
4–6 Months Before the Wedding: Choose Your Dress and Place Your Order
For many mothers of the bride, this is the ideal time to make a final decision and place an order.
Before purchasing, check the following details:
- Confirm the dress color with your daughter.
- Check the wedding dress code and expected level of formality.
- Review the size chart and take accurate measurements.
- Confirm the fabric, neckline, sleeve length, and other design details.
- Check the estimated production, shipping, and delivery time.
- Allow enough time for possible alterations after the dress arrives.
If you are considering a custom-made dress, ask about the available customization options. Depending on the design, you may be able to request a more personalized fit, a different color, or fabric adjustments.
For made-to-measure purchases, provide accurate measurements and follow the seller's measurement instructions carefully. A custom-made dress still needs enough time for production, delivery, and any final fitting adjustments.
2–3 Months Before the Wedding: Check Delivery and Arrange Alterations
At this stage, your dress should ideally have arrived or be progressing according to the seller's confirmed delivery schedule.
Try it on as soon as possible. Check the overall fit while standing, sitting, and walking. Pay particular attention to the bust, waist, hips, shoulders, sleeve length, and hemline.
If alterations are needed, arrange them promptly. Common adjustments include:
- Shortening the hem to match your shoes.
- Adjusting the waist or bust for a better fit.
- Shortening sleeves or adjusting shoulder seams.
- Making minor neckline or strap adjustments where possible.
- Improving the fit around the hips or back.
Remember that extensive alterations may take longer than simple hemming. If your dress requires significant changes, give your tailor additional time.
1 Month Before the Wedding: Finalize Accessories
With approximately one month remaining, your dress should be close to its final fit. Now is the time to coordinate the rest of your outfit.
Consider choosing:
- Comfortable shoes that work with the dress length.
- Jewelry that complements the neckline and fabric.
- A clutch or small evening bag.
- A shawl, wrap, jacket, or cape if additional coverage is needed.
- Accessories that suit the wedding's formality and season.
Try everything together to make sure the colors, proportions, and overall look work well. If you plan to wear new shoes, walk in them at home before the wedding day.
1–2 Weeks Before the Wedding: Complete Your Final Outfit Check
During the final weeks, try on your complete outfit, including shoes, accessories, undergarments, and any shapewear you plan to wear.
Check that you can sit, walk, dance, and move comfortably. Make sure the hemline works with your shoes and that nothing feels too tight or restrictive.
Keep your dress properly stored and follow the care instructions for its fabric. If professional steaming or pressing is required, arrange it before the wedding rather than leaving it until the last minute.
When Should the Mother of the Groom Start Dress Shopping?
The mother of the groom should generally begin shopping around the same time as the mother of the bride, ideally 6 to 8 months before the wedding.
Traditionally, the mother of the bride may choose her outfit first and share the color or general style with the mother of the groom. This gives both mothers an opportunity to coordinate without wearing identical outfits.
However, this is a courtesy rather than a strict wedding rule. Both mothers can shop at the same time and communicate about their choices.
A simple approach is:
- The mother of the bride discusses the wedding palette and dress code with the bride.
- She begins shopping and shares her general color choice with the mother of the groom.
- The mother of the groom chooses an outfit that complements the wedding palette and the other mother's look.
- Both mothers confirm that their outfits are appropriate for the ceremony and reception.
The goal is coordination, not matching. The mothers do not need to wear the same color or identical styles.
For more guidance, read our article on whether the mother of the bride and mother of the groom should wear the same color.
Should the Mother of the Bride Shop Before or After the Bride Chooses Her Wedding Dress?
It is usually helpful for the mother of the bride to begin researching styles while the bride is shopping for her wedding dress, but wait until the wedding's overall style and color palette are reasonably clear before making a final decision.
The bride's dress can help establish the formality and atmosphere of the celebration. For example, a traditional formal gown may suggest a more sophisticated mother of the bride outfit, while a relaxed beach wedding may call for a lighter and more casual design.
You do not necessarily need to wait until the bride's dress is completely finalized. However, it is helpful to know:
- The wedding venue and season.
- The expected dress code.
- The bridesmaid dress color or general palette.
- Whether the wedding will be formal, semi-formal, or casual.
These details will help you select a dress that feels appropriate for the celebration without competing with the bride's look.
How to Choose the Right Mother of the Bride Dress Color
Color coordination is an important part of shopping for your outfit. The best color should complement the wedding palette, suit the season, and make you feel confident.
Some popular choices include:
- Navy blue: A timeless option for formal weddings and evening celebrations.
- Dusty blue: A soft, elegant choice for spring and summer weddings.
- Sage green: Beautiful for garden, outdoor, and nature-inspired weddings.
- Burgundy: A rich shade that works especially well for fall and winter celebrations.
- Champagne: A sophisticated neutral, although the bride should be consulted before choosing a shade close to her wedding dress.
- Dusty rose: A romantic option for spring weddings and soft color palettes.
- Emerald green: A striking choice for formal occasions and jewel-tone wedding palettes.
Before choosing your final color, ask your daughter whether there are any shades she would prefer you to avoid. It is also helpful to consider the bridesmaid dresses and the mother of the groom's outfit.
Explore our detailed guide to the best colors for mother of the bride dresses for more inspiration.
Order: Wisteria Purple Bedazzled Mermaid Mother of The Bride Dress
What If the Wedding Is Only 3 Months Away?
If the wedding is approaching and you have not chosen your dress yet, do not panic. You can still find an appropriate outfit, but you will need to focus on availability and realistic delivery times.
Here are some practical steps:
- Prioritize ready-to-ship or locally available dresses: These may be more suitable when the wedding date is close.
- Check delivery estimates before ordering: Do not rely on general shipping estimates without confirming the specific dress's availability.
- Choose a style that requires minimal alterations: This can reduce the time needed to prepare your outfit.
- Contact the seller before purchasing: Ask whether the dress can realistically arrive before your wedding date.
- Book a tailor early: Even a simple adjustment may require an appointment.
If you have only a few weeks remaining, prioritize dresses that are already available in your size or can be delivered within a confirmed timeframe. Avoid choosing a complicated custom design unless the seller can confirm that production and delivery are feasible.
Order: Dusty Blue Appliqued Long Mother of the Bride Dress with Short Sleeves
Common Mother of the Bride Dress Shopping Mistakes to Avoid
1. Waiting Until the Last Minute
Leaving shopping until the final few weeks can limit your choices and make alterations more stressful. Starting early gives you more flexibility.
2. Choosing a Dress Before Discussing the Wedding Style
A dress that looks beautiful in isolation may not suit the venue or dress code. Discuss the overall wedding atmosphere before making your final choice.
3. Trying to Match the Bridesmaids Exactly
You do not need to wear the same shade as the bridesmaids. A complementary color often creates a more balanced and sophisticated wedding party look.
4. Forgetting About Alterations
Even a dress that appears to fit well may need minor adjustments. Always allow time for a final fitting.
5. Ignoring Comfort
A wedding day can involve hours of standing, sitting, walking, and celebrating. Consider the fabric, fit, neckline, sleeves, and ease of movement before choosing your dress.
Find Your Perfect Mother of the Bride Dress
Finding the right mother of the bride dress does not have to be stressful. With a little planning, you can explore flattering silhouettes, choose a color that complements the wedding palette, and leave enough time for ordering and alterations.
At PromBoutiqueOnline, you can explore elegant mother of the bride dresses in a variety of styles, colors, and silhouettes. Depending on the design, customization options may also help you create a look that better suits your measurements and preferences.
Start exploring our Mother of the Bride Dresses Collection to find an outfit that makes you feel elegant, comfortable, and confident on the wedding day.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should the mother of the bride buy her dress?
The mother of the bride should ideally begin shopping 6 to 8 months before the wedding and aim to order her dress around 4 to 6 months in advance. This allows time for choosing a style, ordering, delivery, and alterations.
When should the mother of the bride go dress shopping?
A good time to start dress shopping is approximately 6 to 8 months before the wedding. Beginning early gives you time to compare styles, coordinate colors, and find a dress that fits comfortably.
When should the mother of the groom buy her dress?
The mother of the groom can generally start shopping around 6 to 8 months before the wedding as well. It is helpful to communicate with the mother of the bride about colors and formality so both outfits complement the wedding style.
Should the mother of the bride choose her dress before the mother of the groom?
Traditionally, the mother of the bride often chooses her outfit first and shares her color choice with the mother of the groom. However, this is not a strict rule. Both mothers can shop at the same time and coordinate their choices through friendly communication.
Is 3 months enough time to buy a mother of the bride dress?
Yes, three months may be enough time, depending on the dress's availability, production schedule, shipping, and alteration requirements. Look for dresses with confirmed delivery estimates and avoid leaving fittings until the final weeks.
Does the mother of the bride have to match the wedding colors?
No. The mother of the bride does not need to match the wedding colors exactly. Choosing a complementary shade is usually a more flexible approach. Consider the bridesmaid dresses, wedding palette, venue, and season when selecting your outfit.
Should the mother of the bride wait until the bride chooses her wedding dress?
It is helpful to know the wedding's style and formality before making a final purchase, but you can begin researching and trying on dresses earlier. Knowing the venue, season, dress code, and color palette will help guide your decision.
How long do mother of the bride dress alterations take?
Simple alterations may take a few weeks, while more complicated adjustments can require additional time. The schedule depends on the tailor and the changes needed, so arrange a fitting as soon as your dress arrives.
Final Thoughts
The best time for the mother of the bride to shop for her dress is usually 6 to 8 months before the wedding. Starting early gives you the freedom to explore different styles, coordinate with the wedding party, and prepare your outfit without unnecessary pressure.
Most importantly, choose a dress that suits the celebration and makes you feel comfortable and confident. Your daughter's wedding is a special occasion, and you deserve to enjoy every moment of it.
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