Choosing what to wear as the mother of the groom can feel like a balancing act. You want to look and feel your best while also complementing the couple's big day. One of the most common questions we hear at Style Boutique NI is: What colour should the mother of the groom wear?
While there are no hard rules, there are certainly some guidelines that can help you decide on the perfect colour. Here, we’ll walk through the best shades to consider, how to coordinate with the wedding party, and what to avoid — plus a few handpicked style suggestions to help inspire your outfit.
Coordinating with the Wedding Party
Traditionally, the mother of the groom chooses her outfit after the mother of the bride, but today, it's more about communication and coordination than following etiquette to the letter. The key is to avoid matching the bridesmaids too closely while still fitting in with the overall theme. It’s always a good idea to check with the bride or wedding planner before committing to a colour.
Colour Suggestions That Always Work
Navy and Deep Blues
A timeless and universally flattering choice, navy and royal blues work beautifully in most seasons and pair well with neutrals. The TIA Velvet Dress with Ruched Side and Diamante Trim in Royal Blue is a luxurious option that provides just the right amount of formality with added sparkle for a special day.
Soft Neutrals and Creams
Colours like taupe, champagne, and soft cream offer a light, refined look that doesn't overpower the rest of the wedding party. The Carla Ruiz Cream & Black Rainforest Print Dress strikes a beautiful balance with its monochrome print and statement sleeves.
Florals with a Pop of Colour
Florals are especially suitable for spring and summer weddings. Look for prints that incorporate the wedding palette without dominating it. The Avalon Floral Spot Dress with Red Bolero is a lovely example that adds personality while staying occasion-appropriate.
Jewel Tones
Rich tones like emerald, plum, or burgundy are ideal for autumn or winter weddings. They photograph beautifully and add depth to your look. These colours also tend to complement a wide range of skin tones and work well in structured dress styles.
What Colours to Avoid
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White or Ivory: Unless specifically approved by the bride, steer clear of any shade that could be mistaken for a wedding dress.
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All-black ensembles: While black can be sophisticated, a head-to-toe black outfit may seem too somber unless it's dressed up with accessories or texture.
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Neon or overly bright colours: These can draw attention away from the couple and clash with photos.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best colour is one that makes you feel confident and fits seamlessly into the celebration. At Style Boutique NI, we offer a wide selection of dresses for the mother of the groom — from structured silhouettes to flowing florals — designed to flatter and celebrate your role on the big day.
Browse our full Mother of the Bride & Groom collection to find the perfect look for the occasion. Our team is always happy to offer style advice and help you coordinate colours with ease.
