What Should the Mother of the Groom Wear? | Wedding Outfits Australia
As the Mother of the Groom, your role on the wedding day is both meaningful and memorable. But finding the perfect outfit can feel overwhelming. Should you match the bridal party? Avoid certain colours? Wear something formal, or keep it relaxed? At Ever Elegant, we’ve helped hundreds of mothers navigate these very questions — so here’s your complete guide.
1. Understand Your Role and the Dress Code
The first step is to check in with the couple. Do they want black-tie formality, a relaxed garden setting, or something in between? Your outfit should reflect the formality of the day while also honouring your role as the groom’s mother.
👉 Tip: For a Melbourne garden wedding, soft fabrics and pastels are perfect. For a formal evening event, structured long dresses, beaded dresses with floaty skirts or 2-piece suits work beautifully.
2. Coordinate (Don’t Match) with the Mother of the Bride
Traditionally, the Mother of the Bride shops first, but modern weddings are more flexible. The key is coordination, not duplication. Share colours and styles so you complement each other without clashing.
👉 At Ever Elegant, we often help mothers choose outfits together so both look stylish and harmonious in family photos.
3. Colours to Choose (and Avoid)
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✅ Flattering shades: navy, blush, soft green, champagne, silver, berry tones
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❌ Avoid: white, ivory, or anything too bridal
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⚖️ Steer clear of the exact bridesmaid colour, unless invited to match
👉 Soft neutrals and jewel tones work well in Australian weddings — and they flatter a wide range of skin tones.
4. Consider Style, Comfort and Coverage
Many mothers ask for outfits with sleeves, modest necklines, and elegant tailoring. Structured jackets, lace detailing, and bias-cut skirts provide polish without fuss. And yes — pantsuits and jumpsuits are 100% appropriate if that’s your style.
👉 Our clients often choose outfits with discreet elastic waistbands and lightweight lining for comfort all day long.
5. Plan Your Timeline
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Shop at least 3–4 months before the wedding
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Allow 4–6 weeks for alterations
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Bring shoes and undergarments to fittings
👉 At Ever Elegant, we offer expert alterations so your outfit fits like it was made just for you.
6. Add Finishing Touches
Accessories can make all the difference. Hats and fascinators are optional in Australia (less common than in the UK), but a stylish clutch and comfortable yet elegant shoes are essential.
Closing
Your son’s wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, and your outfit should make you feel confident, elegant, and comfortable. Whether you prefer a classic dress and jacket, a soft lace ensemble, or a chic pantsuit, the key is finding something that reflects your personality and complements the wedding style.
At Ever Elegant, we specialise in designer outfits for mothers of the bride and groom — with exclusive labels from Europe and the UK available in Melbourne. Visit us in-store to find your perfect look, with one-on-one styling and in-house alterations.
