A wedding day is a special event for both the bride and the mother of the bride. While the bride’s dress is the main attraction, the mother of the bride’s dress is also an essential part of the wedding. Over the years, the fashion of mother of the bride dress has evolved tremendously, reflecting the changing times and styles.
In this article, we will take a look back in time at the evolution of mother of the bride dress fashion.
Early 1900s:
At the turn of the 20th century, weddings were usually held in the morning, and the mother of the bride wore a simple dress or skirt and blouse. These dresses were usually made of light fabrics such as cotton or linen, and they were modest, with high collars and long sleeves. The dresses were often in pastel colors such as lavender, light blue, or pink.
1920s:
In the 1920s, weddings started to take place in the afternoon, and the mother of the bride began to wear more formal dresses. The popular style of the time was the flapper dress, which was short and loose-fitting. The dresses were made of silk or chiffon, and they often had beading or sequins. The colors of the dresses were bright and bold, such as red, emerald green, or royal blue.
1940s:
During World War II, weddings became more subdued, and the mother of the bride dressed accordingly. The dresses were simple and practical, often made of wool or rayon. The colors were muted, with navy blue and gray being popular choices. The dresses had a conservative cut, with long sleeves and high necklines.
1950s:
In the 1950s, weddings became more elaborate, and the mother of the bride’s dress reflected this. The dresses were often made of silk or taffeta and had a full skirt. The popular style was the A-line dress, which had a fitted bodice and a flared skirt. The dresses were often in pastel colors such as pink, blue, or yellow.
1960s:
In the 1960s, weddings became more casual, and the mother of the bride’s dress became less formal. The popular style was the shift dress, which was a simple, straight-cut dress that fell above the knee. The dresses were made of cotton or polyester, and the colors were bright and bold, such as orange or green.
1970s:
In the 1970s, weddings became more relaxed, and the summer mother of the bride dresses reflected this. The popular style was the maxi dress, which was a long, flowing dress that fell to the floor. The dresses were made of silk or chiffon, and they often had a bohemian style with floral prints or embroidery. The colors were earthy, such as brown or olive green.
1980s:
In the 1980s, weddings became more formal again, and the mother of the bride’s dress became more elaborate. The popular style was the ball gown, which had a fitted bodice and a full, voluminous skirt. The dresses were often made of satin or taffeta and had beading or sequins. The colors were often pastel, such as pink or lavender.
1990s:
In the 1990s, weddings became more relaxed again, and the mother of the bride’s dress became less formal. The popular style was the tea-length dress, which was a mid-length dress that fell below the knee. The dresses were often made of chiffon or lace, and the colors were muted, such as champagne or silver.
2000s:
In the 2000s, weddings became more personalized, and the mother of the bride’s dress reflected this. The popular style was the cocktail dress which was a knee-length dress that could be either formal or casual. The dresses were often made of silk or satin and had embellishments such as beading or lace. The colors were varied, and the dresses could be in bold or pastel shades.
2010s:
In the 2010s, weddings continued to be personalized, and the mother of the bride’s dress reflected this trend. The popular style was the midi dress, which fell between the knee and ankle. The dresses were often made of lightweight fabrics such as chiffon or tulle and could be either fitted or flowy. The colors were often muted, with pastels and neutral shades being popular choices.
2020s:
In the 2020s, weddings have become more intimate due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the mother of the bride’s dress has adapted to this trend. The popular style is the separate outfit, which allows for versatility and comfort. The outfits can be a combination of a skirt and blouse or pants and a top. The fabrics can be lightweight and comfortable, such as linen or cotton, and the colors can be muted or bold, depending on the preference of the mother of the bride.
End Note
The evolution of mother of the bride gowns has reflected the changing times and styles of weddings. From simple and practical dresses to elaborate ball gowns, and now to versatile separates outfits, the mother of the bride’s dress has adapted to the changing times.
Whether the preference is for a classic, formal look or a more modern and relaxed style, there is a dress for every mother of the bride. The key is to choose a dress that reflects the personality and style of the mother of the bride while also complementing the wedding theme and the bride’s dress.
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