When you're the Mother of the Bride, you want to stand out and feel special, without upstaging your daughter. Follow the instructions below and you will be sure to receive compliments all through your special day.
 

 The wedding's venue and level of formality will help dictate the type of dress you're seeking. A black-tie wedding calls for a glittering cocktail dress or full-length gown; a beachside wedding may mean a pretty linen sundress.

An A-line silhouette - fitted at the top, flared at the bottom - works for most figures. A sheath dress looks beautiful on a figure that's proportional, equally large at the bust and hips.

Select a hue that works with the wedding palette so the dresses don't clash in the wedding photos. Skip black or white at the wedding - white is generally reserved for the bride, and black may seem like you're mourning your daughter's marriage. Dresses with wild patterns don't photograph as well as simpler, solidly colored gowns in rich fabrics.

You'll likely be on your feet through the bulk of the day, helping your daughter get ready and greeting guests, so be sure your dress fits well and will be comfortable for a long haul.

 Start looking for your dress at least six months out from the wedding date, so you have time to look and to special-order your dress, if required. Consider buying the dress at the same salon where the bride bought her dress, and ask if you can receive a discount on the price.