Being the Mother of the Bride should be one of the most exciting times in your life, but if you are worrying about what to wear, it can also be one of the most stressful. 

Here are 5 style tips to put your mind at ease and help you choose the perfect Mother of the Bride dress to feel confident and look fabulous.

@annmorgancruit

Is the wedding a huge, formal event with the reception at a luxurious hotel or hall? 

Or, is it small and low-key with close family and friends enjoying dinner afterward at a small venue or favorite restaurant?

The larger and more formal the wedding, the more upscale your Mother of the Bride dress should be. 

For example, a long-beaded evening gown is appropriate for an elegant, formal wedding, but looks out of place at an intimate, casual wedding. 

Knowing the wedding's size, formality and theme will help guide your Mother of the Bride or Groom dress shopping. 

@elizacruz816

Color is key. 

The Mother of the Bride should stand out, but not too much, although you certainly don't want to fade into the background either. 

There will be a lot of photos taken, so be sure the color of your formal dress coordinates with the wedding party. For example, you can wear one shade lighter or darker than the bridesmaids or wear a color that contrasts with the bridesmaids. 

A bride puts a lot of thought into her wedding palette, so be sure to consult with her first about what color she envisions you wearing.

@elizabethtolbert

At one time, there was a very limited range of Mother of the Bride dresses, and many were shapeless and frumpy. But now, there's so much to choose from, it's easy to find the perfect evening dress to flatter your figure and look modern. 

Ruching is a wonderful way to hide a tummy. Sheer sleeves are a great way to offer arm coverage when you feel self-conscious, and an embellished neckline shifts the emphasis from a heavy bottom half, up to your pretty face.

@kleinfelds

It's going to be a long day, and you'll be on your feet welcoming guests.

Be sure your dress doesn't rub, pinch, and that it has some stretch so you can breathe!

Avoid shoes that are too high, tight, or flimsy, and be sure to work them in before the wedding.

Confidence is key on this special day. If you feel uncomfortable in your evening wear clothes, it will show on your face.

@jen_garavente

Stick to your style personality as much as you can.

If you typically wear classic, understated evening dresses, don't go overboard with something flowy, bright, and sparkly.

A simple lace sheath Mother of the Bride dress might be your perfect choice.

If evening pants feel more like you, then pair some lovely evening separates to create a gorgeous Mother of the Bride outfit. 

Remember, you will look your most beautiful and stylish when your Mother of the Bride dress reflects the real you.

@marianpress

Deciding what to wear to the wedding isn't something you need to fret about. Following these simple tips to find the perfect Mother of the Bride Dress will make you feel like a queen!

@rubynelledmiranda