Can I Wear a Black Dress as Mother of the Groom?

Hi Glam Gals!
My son is getting married in September and I found a beautiful black dress at Nordstrom.

Is wearing black acceptable as the Mother of the Groom? ($129.00, e-Bay)

The dress is simple and has a nice bolero jacket covering the strapless floor-length gown.  There’s some rhinestone embellishment at the empire waist but otherwise the dress is tailored and elegant.  My problem: when people ask what I am wearing, they are shocked when I tell them the dress is BLACK.  I thought the old rules of not wearing black to a wedding no longer apply.  I asked the bride if she minds my wearing black — and she totally approves of it.  That said, I don’t want to offend the guests or send the wrong message at the wedding.   So should I shop for another dress??
Thank you, and sign me:
Mother of the Groom

First of all, congratulations on your son’s engagement!   This is such an exciting time and your sensitivity to the bride’s opinion on the color of your dress is commending.

Really, the idea of “no black” at a wedding is just old fashioned.

Black is very much accepted these days and has actually become popular in the past few years. But the biggest point you brought up is that you asked the bride her opinion in the matter.  Since she has “totally approved” as you mention, then you should put your mind at ease.  If she is supportive of the idea and this is the dress you feel comfortable in, then you should not worry about other opinions.

However, that being said, we want to remind you that you are going to want to look your prettiest that day as well.  We are curious what colors look best on you?  Most women over a certain age can find that black can be aging and bring out lines, wrinkles and dark circles.

Women that have fair complexions with dark hair or grey or red hair can look stunning in black.  However, for many of us, it doesn’t seem to be our best color as we age.  To help you make a good decision, next time you are getting ready to go out and you have your make up and hair done, put on the gown and take a photo of yourself in it.  If you like the way you look in it, it is a keeper.  If you find that it drains you and makes you look tired, then you might want to consider returning it and finding one that is in a color that suits you.

Good luck and keep us posted on what you decide to do!

Are going to be a Mother of the Bride or Groom?  Get help and a solid plan for getting ready for the big day! Check out our popular e-book,  Tweak Your Chic~ Secrets to Looking Fab When Your are the Mother of the Bride or Groom.