As soon as the bride’s and bridesmaids’ dresses are chosen, start shopping. Bridal stores usually stock a limited number of sizes and colors in a particular style so you probably will have to special-order your dress.

Mothers of the bride and groom should dress in manner consistent with the overall style and formality of the wedding. Your dress should complement the bride’s choices for herself and the bridal party. Also, get the bride’s opinion on how she may want the mothers to look on her wedding.

In addition to the bride, mothers of the bride and groom should consult each other before making a decision on a dress. Although your dresses do not need to be the same color, they should be equally formal and complement each other because you will be standing near each other and will be in pictures together.

When deciding on a color, choose a dress that looks good with your skin tone and complements the overall wedding colors. Remember to stay away from white or any shade of it -- that is the bride’s color and you do not want to draw any attention away from her. Although black used to be a color to avoid for weddings, it is now increasing in popularity.

Also increasing in popularity are dresses for the mother of the bride and groom that are less matronly and more fashionable. Choose a style that you are comfortable in as long as it you follow the general rule that it is consistent with the overall look of the wedding.