Black Dresses For The Mother Of The Bride
Traditionally, the colours black and white were seen as colours to avoid wearing to a wedding. Mothers of the bride and mothers of the groom would consider many other colour options such as navy, emerald or champagne. While the colour white is still typically considered a no for wedding guests (unless the bride requests guests to wear white), the colour black is becoming a suitable option for wedding guests, including mothers of the bride or groom. The idea or ‘rule’ that you aren't allowed to wear black is being transformed by brides themselves, with brides requesting their bridesmaids or guests to wear all black (or other specific colours or colour palettes) to their wedding. And even if the colour black is not specifically requested on the wedding invitation, a lot of brides are more than happy to see their guests in a black wedding guest dress.
Traditionally the colour black was not an option for weddings as it was (and in some cases still is) commonly associated with grief and mourning. Therefore, some people see it as an inappropriate shade to wear to a wedding. However, there has been a contemporary shift in preferences when it comes to colour palettes for weddings, and modern weddings are breaking traditional rules. Black is always a favourite to wear to formal events due to its sophistication and elegance, so why not wear it to a wedding? At the end of the day, it is up to the bride and groom when it comes to what colours they want to have threaded throughout their big day, and black is seemingly a new favourite colour to wear especially for formal and black tie weddings.
Can the mother of the bride or groom wear a black dress?
The most important thing is to ask the bride's opinion regarding this, if the bride is okay for her guests to wear a black dress then absolutely, you can wear a black dress to the wedding! While other brides may disapprove, and if this is the case then you can save your dress for another formal occasion and find a different colour for the wedding, such as a timeless navy hue or a colourful printed dress. And who said it needs to be entirely black? The bride may be happy for you to wear black to the wedding but would still love to see a bit of colour – maybe it’s a festive garden party? If so then you could either choose a printed black dress to inject some fun and character into your look or pair some colourful jewellery and bright heels with your elegant black dress. Black does not have to be seen as too simple or plain for a mother of the bride, and bold printed styles or jewellery can add dimension to your overall look.
How can I make a black dress feel a little more festive for a wedding?
Another element to consider when shopping for a black dress for your son or daughter’s wedding is fabric. Although black may sometimes seem like a bore (although we don’t agree!), fabric, shape and silhouettes can play a huge part in making a black dress a little more festive. Fabric textures such as sequins and beads can add a modern twist to traditional black gowns. Other eye catching textures that create a festive look include black tulle and faux fur.
Is a black dress suitable for all wedding dress codes?
A black dress is a great choice for many different types of wedding dress codes, especially for black tie or formal weddings. A black floor length gown is the perfect option for evening weddings. Choose a style with an embellished neckline or a sequin fabric to elevate your look for a black tie or formal dress code. Something that sparkles will look extra special for a night time wedding. You can also add some gold or silver accessories to elevate your style for a black tie or formal wedding.
You will always look your best in Montique! For more fashion tips or information on our dresses and products, contact us at customerservice@intermoda.com.au to be in touch with our customer service team, or shop our new arrivals now!
Updated on 13/05/2025
