b'Choosing the Right Dressfor theerhaps the second most important dress a woman willSOME SHOPPING TIPS:wear (after her own wedding dress) is her mother-Youll have a better selection at a specialty store, though doof-the-bride or -groom dress. The selection processcheck out the department stores for ideas and options.is fraught with pressure to look and feel pretty while also blendingt Alterations are important.with the bridesmaids and wedding colors.t Proper undergarments are important.Follow the brides lead regarding style, color and degree oft Order your dress (if it needs to be ordered) at least three to formality. The days of blending in are gone. The mother-of-the- four months in advance.brides dress complements the wedding partys colors. Its a goodt Allow time for those important alterations.idea to look at styles early on because you wont be buying at Consider if youll need a wrap for the church or because of dress until your daughter chooses the bridesmaid dresses (comple- weather.menting color, of course), but knowing a style that works for yout Bring proper shoes when trying on dresses.is half the battle. Once youve chosen your dress, you share your dress colorON THE WEDDING DAY:and style with the mother-of-the-groom. Shell coordinate at Think elegant, understated, appropriate, individualreect your complementing color and style. Remember youll both be in thestyle.photos, why not look great? t While the bridesmaids are getting ready, why not have your SOME GENERAL RULES OF ETIQUETTE: own hair and beauty team to work on you and your friends or t The mother-of-the-bride chooses her dress rst. family?t Carry a swatch of the bridesmaids gown so your dress complements their color. Smile!t Momsdo not wear the same color dress.t Never wear a dress the same color as the brides dressnot even remotely close.t The length of the dress or gown is a personal choice.t Make sure the dress is church, venue, color and age appropriate.t Black is appropriate for weddings as long as you dont look like youre in mourning.t Once the brides mom has chosen her dress, she should let the grooms mom know and show her the dress or the color of the dress.'