Then theres the challenge of what to wear as the mother of the bride or groom.

No worries, weve got you covered!

White and ivory are typically worn only by the bride.

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Today many formal weddings include bridesmaids and mothers-of dressed in black.

The next considerations are the venue, the time of day and the time of year.

If you are comfortable showing your arms, strapless dresses and off-the-shoulder styles are nice options.

a navy dress wedding invitations flowers and wedding cake

Metallics, navy, black and jewel tones are all a go.

Pastel ballgowns can be a bit trickier as they conjure Disney princesses.

With a column gown or a shirtwaist style, a dangling earring can add drama.

Eliza J Long-Sleeve Tuxedo Gown in Black; Mac Duggal Sequin Long-Sleeve Trumpet Gown in Nude Silver; Halston Elyria One-Shoulder Crepe Cape Gown; Petite Surplice Neckline Ballgown with Full Satin Skirt & Jersey Bodice in Navy

Feel free toshimmer or sparkle.

you’re free to have fun with your jewelry.

Sleeveless, off-shoulder and strapless styles often call for dramatic earrings or bracelets as opposed to necklaces.

Carlan Tea Length Dress in Night Blue; Milly Strapless Pleated Crepe Midi Dress in Adriatic; Eliza J Illusion Crew Neck Short Sleeve Floral Embroidered A-Line Midi Dress in Black; Teri Jon by Rickie Freeman Metallic Jacket Dress in Gold

A nude-colored shoe works with a dress of almost any color.