Are getting ready outfits required?

As with most things: your wedding, your rules. “A getting ready outfit isn't required for the mother-of-the-bride, but mom's look should definitely be intentional, not an afterthought,” says Hartman. “A comfortable outfit in a color cohesive with the rest of the bridal party will do the job. Also consider the iconic photo of the mother-of-the-bride zipping the bride's wedding dress; often mom is still wearing her getting ready outfit."

Does the mother-of-the-bride have to match the rest of the bridal party?

If your photographer will be on duty during the getting ready portion of your wedding day, you should think about how the mother-of-the-bride’s outfit fits in with the whole aesthetic. “The mother-of-the-bride's getting ready outfit doesn't have to match perfectly, but her getting ready look should be cohesive with the rest of the bridal party,” Hartman says. “If your bridal party is wearing pastel floral robes, opt for a solid pastel hue for mom. A cohesive color palette will make photos more uniformed."

Who pays for the getting ready outfit?

Here too, the guidelines aren’t the same for mothers as they are for bridesmaids. “Typically the bride will give getting ready outfits as a gift,” Hartman explains. “However, since the mother-of-the-bride won't necessarily be wearing the same exact outfit as the bridal party, I think it's safe to assume mom will pay for her own outfit.” That said, if the bride prefers to buy her mom’s getting ready outfit, that’s totally acceptable as well.

The 19 Best Getting Ready Outfits for the Mother-of-the-Bride of 2024

Best Getting Ready Outfits for the Mother-of-the-Bride of 2023 — Brides / Brian Kopinski

Your daughter’s wedding is such a special and exciting occasion, and there’s every chance you want to make sure the day runs as smoothly as it possibly can. Taking part in her getting ready prep can be especially meaningful for you as her mother, as you help her get into her wedding dress alongside her closest friends and family members. As such, you probably want to look the part.

While, according to bridal stylist Lauren Hartman, a specially purchased getting ready outfit isn’t required for the mother-of-the-bride, you’ll still want your look to blend in seamlessly with the day’s color palette. And if by chance you want to lean fully into the pre-wedding fun, we’ve put together beautiful outfit options to celebrate your kid’s big day. Who doesn’t love an excuse for treating themselves to a luxurious new robe, right?

Keep reading for some of the best getting ready outfits for the mother-of-the-bride out there.

Our Top Picks

Best Robe:

Birdy Grey Ruffle Robe at Birdygrey.com ($29)

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Best Long Robe:

Lunya Washable Silk Long Robe at Revolve (See Price)

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Best Simple Robe:

Show Me Your Mumu First Look Robe at Showmeyourmumu.com ($68)

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Best Pajama Shirt:

Mod Party Button Down Shirt at Etsy ($27)

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Best Button-Down:

Monkey See Boutique Button Down Oxford Shirt at Etsy ($38)

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Best Short Set:

Livenza Pajama Short Set at Anthropologie ($122)

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Best Pant Set:

SKIMS Rib Pajamas at Nordstrom ($118)

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Best Romper:

Show Me Your Mumu Say I Do Romper at Showmeyourmumu.com ($98)

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Best Silk:

Nordstrom Classic Silk Pajamas at Nordstrom ($90)

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Best Waffle:

Amazon Essentials Waffle Full-Length Robe at Amazon ($24)

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In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Brides

Birdy Grey

View On Birdygrey.com $29

A robe is as classic as it gets for a getting ready outfit, and this one hails from bridal specialist brand Birdy Grey, so you know you’re getting a top-quality product. The robe falls above the knee without being too short, and features sweet but not over-the-top ruffles. We love that it comes in 15 color shades and sizes up to a 3X, plus the fact that you can personalize it with your name or “mother-of-the-bride” in the font of your choice on the back.

Size Range: XS-3X | Materials: Polyester | Colors: 15 | Personalization: Yes (+$6)

Lunya

View On Revolve View On Lunya.co View On Bloomingdales $298

If your daughter’s wedding is a great excuse for you to invest in a robe you’ll wear for years after the big day, it doesn’t get much better than Lunya’s oh-so-simple 100 percent silk numbers. This robe comes in four solid colors, can mercifully be machine-washed, and uses planet-friendly dyes to help reduce your impact. Bonus points for its thermoregulating features, which mean you won’t break a sweat if the wedding morning logistics derail in any way (as they, unfortunately, have a tendency to do).

Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Silk | Colors: White, Black, Tan, Blue | Personalization: No

Show Me Your Mumu

View On Showmeyourmumu.com $68

For moms who prefer a short-style robe with no frills (literally), Show Me Your Mumu has just the thing: a classic satin robe that falls at mid-thigh, and comes in four solid colorways plus a floral. With its elbow-length sleeves, this robe is best suited to pre-wedding prep that’s happening in a warmer climate. And of course, once the wedding is over, you can easily wear this around the house for a comfy and cute piece of loungewear.

Size Range: XS-XXL | Materials: Polyester Satin | Colors: 5 | Personalization: No

Etsy

View On Etsy $27

A long, button-down pajama shirt is a fantastic option for your getting ready look, since it can be worn alone or over leggings or pants, and doesn’t require any hair-messing over-the-head pulling. This one comes in four colorways, and says mother-of-the-bride (or groom, if that’s you!) in a swirly font on the side pocket. It’s available in two sizes designed to fit those who typically wear sizes XS to 3XL, making it an inclusive choice as well.

Size Range: XS-3XL | Materials: Cotton Modal | Colors: White, Black, Pink, Champagne | Personalization: Yes

Etsy

View On Etsy $38

Robes aren’t for everyone, and a classic button-down oxford shirt can make a solid alternative worn over pajama shorts or leggings (or even alone, if you go for the oversized look). This one comes with seersucker-style stripes in blue, gray, or black, and can be personalized with the words “mother-of-the-bride” plus a name or initials. When it comes to fonts and motifs, Monkey See Boutique offers a whole host of options so you can create the shirt of your getting-ready dreams.

Size Range: XS-4XL | Materials: Cotton, Polyester | Colors: Blue, Gray, Black | Personalization: Yes

Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie $122

On the market for something a little unique? These stunning pajamas from Anthropologie are it. We’re in love with their long sleeves, floral print, and frilly accents. And with a button-up top that won’t damage your hair when you swap them for your wedding outfit, these are just as practical as they are beautiful.

Size Range: S-XL | Materials: Satin | Colors: Blue | Personalization: No

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom $118 View On Skims.com

Looking nice for pre-wedding photos is a big factor in choosing a getting ready outfit, but you also need your ensemble to be comfy, so that you feel good sitting in the hair and makeup chair. This pajama pant set from SKIMS does both perfectly: They’re very simple-looking, in just a solid color, but they’re also super cute thanks to the delicate ribbing. And as is SKIMS’ M.O., they’re made from incredibly comfy stretch modal that will have you using these as your go-to pajamas once you get home.

Size Range: XXS-4X | Materials: Modal, Spandex | Colors: 8 | Personalization: No

Show Me Your Mumu

View On Showmeyourmumu.com $98

We love robes for getting ready, but a romper is perfect if you’re worried about wardrobe malfunctions as you hustle and bustle around to help your daughter. This one is designed in a wraparound style, with frills on the shorts and a sash belt for a little extra touch. It comes in a choice of four solid colors and one blue and white floral print.

Size Range: XS-XXL | Materials: Polyester Satin | Colors: 5 | Personalization: No

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom $90

Many getting ready outfits are made of satiny material, but if you prefer the feel of authentic silk, there are also tons of fabulous options out there for you. Why not spring for a classic pajama set like this one, which consists of a button-down shirt and pants? These come in beautiful colorways such as black trimmed with white, a festive champagne hue, or a flashier violet. As with many of the items on this list, these can be worn as regular pajamas once the festivities are over.

Size Range: XXS-XL | Materials: Silk | Colors: 9 | Personalization: No

Amazon

View On Amazon $24

A waffle robe makes a comfy and lightweight getting ready option for weddings set in a warmer climate. This one comes in so many color options you might even find it hard to choose just one, but we have a soft spot for the teal, olive and navy, if that helps. It falls below the knee for moms who prefer a little more coverage, and comes in sizes up to a 7X, which is just one more reason to love it.

Size Range: XS-7X | Materials: Cotton, Polyester | Colors: 15 | Personalization: No

Etsy

View On Etsy $61

Available in pink, black, or navy stripes, this super cute button-down shirt is oversized enough to wear by itself, though you could always layer it over leggings if you prefer, finishing the look off with your favorite slippers. You can either leave the shirt as is or customize it with your name, your initials, and/or your role in the wedding—it’s totally up to you!

Size Range: XS-XXXL | Materials: Rayon | Colors: Pink, Black, Dark Navy | Personalization: Yes

Luvlette

View On Luvlette.com

Luvlette has become a go-to brand for wedding getting ready outfits over the last few years, and when you browse their collections, it’s not difficult to see why. We’re loving this lace-trimmed floral set that looks luxe but comes with a super affordable price tag. With its short sleeves and shorts, and its baby pink fabric, it strikes exactly the romantic chord for pre-wedding festivities.

Size Range: S-XL | Materials: Slight Stretch | Colors: Baby Pink | Personalization: No

Etsy

View On Etsy $56

For moms who would choose a sporty look over a frilly number any day, a hoodie is just as cute as any robe—plus it makes for an extra comfy and convenient getting ready outfit. We especially love this one in black, with its contrasting white font, which you can choose to spell out “mother-of-the-bride” on the front and back. Lovely!

Size Range: S-3XL | Materials: Cotton, Polyester | Colors: Navy, Sport Gray, White, Black | Personalization: Yes

Tuckernuck

View On Tnuck.com

Another of Hartman’s picks, this is “a great button-down option that won't mess up your hair and makeup.” It’s perfect if you prefer to wear day clothes for getting ready rather than a more pajama-like outfit, and can be worn as an everyday sundress after the wedding. We love its clever boyfriend shirt look with the addition of a matching belt for a feminine touch.

Size Range: XS-XXL | Materials: Rayon, Nylon, Spandex | Colors: Blue | Personalization: No

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom $35

Moms who are committed to making planet-conscious purchases as often as possible will adore these pajamas, which are made from TENCEL modal, a soft fabric with a low environmental impact. This short set is as simple as it is cute, and comes in a choice of classic black or navy, a fun olive-lime green, or a party-ready zebra print. These make a doubly sustainable buy, since they’ll make wonderful sleepwear for you once the wedding is over—rather than being a one-and-done purchase.

Size Range: XXS-XL | Materials: TENCEL Modal, Spandex | Colors: 10 | Personalization: No

Etsy

View On Etsy $40

A monogrammed robe is one of the most popular choices for the bridal party’s getting ready outfits, and that includes the mother-of-the-bride! This one falls over the knee without being too short (in case that’s a concern for you) and is very simple, safe for the dreamy lace trim at the bottom. It comes in a range of beautiful colors and can be personalized with a monogram or name.

Size Range: XS-XXXL | Materials: Crepe, Lace | Colors: 15 | Personalization: Yes

Luvlette

View On Luvlette.com

You can definitely showcase a little personality while getting ready for your daughter’s wedding, and if leopard print feels like your speed, this PJ set is a winner—and is really affordable, too. Since these offer a little more coverage than some of the other options, they’re especially great if the wedding is taking place during the colder months.

Size Range: S-L | Materials: Non-Stretch | Colors: Leopard | Personalization: No

Amazon

View On Amazon $26

With these PJs, choose between a more classic wedding-like hue (pink, tan or mint, for example) or a statement-making bright (like emerald green, fuchsia, or royal blue) depending on the wedding’s color palette. These feature an adorable tie front for easy on and off, and a short-sleeve and short-shorts style for breezy wear.

Size Range: XS-XXL | Materials: Polyester, Spandex | Colors: 15 | Personalization: No

Birdy Grey

View On Birdygrey.com $49

While many of the outfits on our list can be worn many times for everyday or for sleeping after the wedding is over, these pajamas from bridal brand Birdy Grey are particularly practical for life beyond the big day. They’re made from stretchy, breathable bamboo rayon for comfort, and are also more casual than your average satin number. They feature a long-sleeve button-down top and shorts, and come in six adorable wedding-ready colors.

Size Range: XS-3X | Materials: Bamboo Rayon, Spandex | Colors: 6 | Personalization: Yes ($6+)

Meet the Expert

Lauren Hartman is the founder of Philadelphia-based bridal and fashion styling company Trousseau Style.

What to Look for in Getting Ready Outfits

Material

Getting ready outfits can be made of all sorts of materials, but what matters most is comfort. “Wear something that is comfortable (you might be sitting in the hair and makeup chair a while) and doesn't wrinkle too easily,” advises Hartman. Cotton is a great breathable option or you can go for a silk set, like Nordstrom Classic Silk Pajamas, for a breathable yet luxurious look.

Style

Hartman’s best advice? “Prioritize practicality when choosing a getting ready outfit," she says. The expert recommends opting for a button-down or zip style, like Nivia Shop Getting Ready Zip Hoodie, so you won’t need to pull it over your head and mess up your hair. While Hartman suggests opting for pants and a button-down shirt for something less casual, moms can also choose to wear pajamas and robes if that’s more their speed.

Color

For Hartman, the color of the mother-of-the-bride’s outfit “should blend in with the rest of the bridal party so you don't stand out too much in photos.” For getting ready outfits, many brides opt for pastel colors or delicate florals like Luvlette Floral Print Lace Trim Satin PJ Set. Check in with your daughter about what color palette she’s chosen, and which colors she’d prefer you to wear if possible.

FAQ

Are getting ready outfits required?

As with most things: your wedding, your rules. “A getting ready outfit isn't required for the mother-of-the-bride, but mom's look should definitely be intentional, not an afterthought,” says Hartman. “A comfortable outfit in a color cohesive with the rest of the bridal party will do the job. Also consider the iconic photo of the mother-of-the-bride zipping the bride's wedding dress; often mom is still wearing her getting ready outfit."
Does the mother-of-the-bride have to match the rest of the bridal party?

If your photographer will be on duty during the getting ready portion of your wedding day, you should think about how the mother-of-the-bride’s outfit fits in with the whole aesthetic. “The mother-of-the-bride's getting ready outfit doesn't have to match perfectly, but her getting ready look should be cohesive with the rest of the bridal party,” Hartman says. “If your bridal party is wearing pastel floral robes, opt for a solid pastel hue for mom. A cohesive color palette will make photos more uniformed."
Who pays for the getting ready outfit?

Here too, the guidelines aren’t the same for mothers as they are for bridesmaids. “Typically the bride will give getting ready outfits as a gift,” Hartman explains. “However, since the mother-of-the-bride won't necessarily be wearing the same exact outfit as the bridal party, I think it's safe to assume mom will pay for her own outfit.” That said, if the bride prefers to buy her mom’s getting ready outfit, that’s totally acceptable as well.

Why Trust Brides

Iris Goldsztajn is a Paris-born, London-based freelance writer with 10 years of experience covering fashion, beauty, wellness and lifestyle for the likes of Brides, InStyle, Marie Claire, British Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Bustle, Refinery29 and many more. As the former associate editor for Her Campus, she was responsible for all style and beauty news coverage. In order to write this article, Iris conducted in-depth research into getting ready outfits for the bridal party, and spoke to bridal styling expert Lauren Hartman to gain further insights into what you should wear while getting ready for your daughter’s wedding.

The 18 Best Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses Available Online