Our Guide to Parents’ Wedding Fashion in the Triangle
Weddings are milestones for parents of the couple just as much as they are for the celebrants themselves. You’ll want to feel comfortable and confident as you fulfill a crucial role in guiding and supporting your child through this life transition. Read on for our best tips for selecting an ensemble to wear to your child’s nuptials!
Venue: Heights House Hotel Photographer: Jillian Knight Photography
When to Order Wedding Day Attire
Mothers of the couple should aim to order their dress six to eight months in advance of the wedding according to Mary-Kannon Jefferson Gosnell of Kannon’s Clothing, a specialty clothier that was founded by her great-grandfather in 1916. Kannon’s now operates womenswear and formalwear shops in Raleigh’s Village District.
This time frame leaves plenty of wiggle room for alterations, MaryKannon says. However, many shops carry attire that you can purchase off the rack if you have a tighter schedule. Kannon’s keeps a variety of sizes and style options in stock for this purpose. Order formalwear rentals no later than three months ahead of the big day, but start shopping even earlier if you’re seeking color and fabric options outside traditional blacks and blues.
“There are those who like to get all their shopping out of the way early,” says Keith Smith, operations manager of Bernard’s Formalwear in Durham, North Carolina. “We love those people.”
Wedding Themes and Color Palettes
Ask your child about the theme, formality and color palette of their event. You get the final say in what you wear, of course, but this is their celebration. Respect their wishes for how you’ll dress if they provide specific instructions.
Southern wedding etiquette dictates specific guidelines for parents. Not all modern couples expect their parents to adhere to these old-school rules, but it can be helpful to be aware of them. We all know white and ivory are off-limits for mothers of the couple, and, until recent years, so too were black and red. Traditionally, the mother of the bride chooses attire first so the mother of the groom can pick a garment that won’t clash or look too similar.
Advice from Wedding Professionals
Feeling overwhelmed by options? Relax! There are experienced folks who can guide your selection.
“To satisfy the needs of parents, we fall back on what we do best: offer [top-notch] products with exceptional knowledge and unrivaled customer service,” says Bruce Liles, owner and president of Liles Clothing Studio. The Raleigh outfitter (situated in North Hills) is equipped to clothe parents in anything from full dress cutaway for formal weddings to linen suits for casual affairs.
Kannon’s customers enjoy one-on-one appointments through the store’s social occasion department, allowing for a highly personalized shopping experience.
À la Mode Attire
Silk taffeta and shades of green are trending this season for mothers of the couple, Mary-Kannon says, and traditional silhouettes, blue hues and off-the-shoulder styles remain popular.
Wedding Day Customization
Coordination with the wedding party and other parents is paramount, but don’t let this stop you from letting your individuality peek through. Use accessories to make your look your own. Consider clutches, wraps, jewelry, colorful bow ties, patterned socks and pocket squares.
“Comfort is so important,” Mary-Kannon says. “You will be in these clothes for hours. Often, women narrow it down to two dresses that each look amazing. I always [advise choosing] the one that’s more comfortable.” Ultimately, you’ll be your best self when you feel at ease in what you’re wearing.
