Victorian Dresses for Mother of the Bride

The Victorian era was very long, extending from 1837 to 1901 through the long reign of Queen Victoria. Queen Victoria was very influential in fashion; her wedding dress in 1840 began the tradition of the white coat worn by today's brides. The wedding day was a most important day for a bride and her mother. The mother of the bride had an important role to play as the host, and proper attire this important family event.

A mother of the bride wore a toilette, a more elegant dress that suit your day but less formal than an evening gown. Underlying all the dresses was the corset, which attracted Woman frame in the form of desired sand clock and crinoline, a lattice-like petticoat or rigid skirt-starched dress skirt allowed to maintain its shape. Weddings were issues during the day, so were high necklines and modest. Since the beginning of the Victorian era through 1868, created a dome crinoline skirt or bell-shaped. After this time, the bustle greatly exaggerate the fullness of the back was added. The introduction of sewing machines in stores and homes dressmakers allows a greater amount of flyers and other decor that was previously impossible for the average woman will create.

The introduction of synthetic dyes allows a much greater range of colors and shiny fabric for women to choose from. While the mother of the bride can wear any color later in Victorian times it was considered appropriate for her to wear black. Women mourning could put aside their black crape for this occasion to wear silk or velvet purple if they were American or British if bright red cardinal.

Silk and velvet were popular choices throughout the Victorian era for a mother of the bride dress. Satin, tulle, merino, and tarlatan net could also be used. Crepe black was never used because it is considered the sackcloth.

Gloves were a necessity for all women, including a mother of the bride; all women wore hats to church, but they could give them to the ceremonies at home, and do not use in the evening receptions. For jewelry, the cameo was a popular accessory. The shoes were worn hard leather and as strong as possible. Other possible accessories included tortoiseshell combs, hairpins, headbands, handbags, belts and scarves.