Tips for Choosing the Perfect MOB Rehearsal Dinner Dress
March 06, 2023
In theory, a rehearsal dinner is exactly what it sounds like: a dinner after the wedding rehearsal. In reality, though, it’s so much more—a chance to have an intimate gathering to thank and toast your closest guests; a chance to spend quality time with your best friends who have traveled in for the big event; and an opportunity to give the wedding party a thank you gift as a sign of your appreciation in a more private setting. It’s a really important occasion, which often leaves many mothers dumbfounded when finding an outfit!
HOW SHOULD THE MOTHER OF THE BRIDE DRESS FOR THE REHEARSAL DINNER?
Typically, formal attire is appropriate for rehearsal dinners. For men, dark suits and ties are appropriate; for women, cocktail dresses and gowns are appropriate. Also, a formal cocktail dress or long gown, heels, and nice jewelry are appropriate for the mother of the bride. The mothers of the bride and groom may even choose to wear an outfit that is just as formal as their wedding day attire.
Weddings are not all the same, and rehearsal dinners can be less formal. Mothers of the bride may choose to wear wide-leg trousers and silk tops, full-length jumpsuits, jersey dresses, or skirts and blouses for a casual rehearsal dinner outfit.
REHEARSAL DINNER OUTFIT CONSIDERATIONS
There are usually several events in a modern wedding, spread over several days: a welcome dinner, a rehearsal dinner, the wedding ceremony, the reception, and possibly even a final brunch or lunch. In this case, the mother of the bride's rehearsal dinner attire needs to take these other events into account. Dressier than what she wears to a welcome dinner or brunch, but less formal than what she wears to the reception, and less 'night out dancing' than what she wears to the ceremony.
In light of the fact that a rehearsal dinner takes place at night, the mother of the bride's outfit needs to be appropriate for the weather and the season. For a winter wedding rehearsal dinner, shawls, stoles, slips, and stockings are essential layers, while for a summer wedding rehearsal dinner, a lightweight scarf will suffice.
Rehearsal dinner attire should be leveled up if the rehearsal dinner is taking place at a fine dining or high-end venue. The mother of the bride or groom may also be able to go more casual if the event is being held at a family member's house.
There must be respect for any dress code or theme specified in an invitation for a wedding and rehearsal dinner. A full-length gown should be worn by the mother of the bride (and mother of the groom) if the fine print specifies 'black tie'.
TOP 3 MOTHER OF THE BRIDE REHEARSAL DINNER STYLES
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A jumpsuit is definitely a great choice for the rehearsal dinner, and we think mothers will love this style. It’s a sleeveless jersey jumpsuit that has a chiffon skirt sweeping over the pants and gorgeous hand-beaded motifs.
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This chic crepe gown is great for a more formal-leaning dinner. It boasts a figure-flattering fit and flare silhouette and comes with a shawl to keep your arms warm on cooler nights.
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This knee-length gown is perfect for a rehearsal dinner! It’s made of allover embroidered lace fabric and features off-the-shoulder sleeves. The sheath silhouette is comfortable and flattering.
If you’re loving these MOB styles, find a store near you!