I am going to cut out my daughter’s wedding dress. There. I said it out loud. But before I do, I just have to say, it takes a lot of courage to commit to make a wedding dress. Shortly after she got engaged, she asked me to make the dress. Never one to let my children down, I agreed. Time marched on before we finally got to a bridal shop to try on dresses. She lives a fairly casual life and I wanted her to know what it feels like to wear a wedding dress. And I wanted to confirm her desires – mermaid, aline, sheath, open back, sleeves, sweetheart neckline, well, you get the idea – there were a million decisions to be made.
Then we shopped for fabric. That took a couple of trips – spread out over a month. Although I ‘kinda’ got a feel for what she wanted we didn’t have any luck in finding all of the right materials. We did purchase the patterns (Vogue 8997 and 1032) and the satin. But we still needed lace, lining, interlining and organza. In the meantime, I made the muslin and perfected the fit. But finding the other materials was presenting a challenge. And then….I got injured and couldn’t drive, sew or embroider for six weeks. Oh boy, the days were flipping by with no progress.
Until last Saturday, we paid a visit to one of Dallas’ finest fabric stores, Richard Brooks. Before we went, I wanted her to see what the satin would like and how it would photograph in the bright sun. I had her step on a clean, large towel and draped the fabric around her. I took a photo with the shiny side. 
And one with the matte side. She likes the shiny. 
When we arrived at Richard Brooks, we found everything we needed under one roof. We spread out an expanse of silk charmeuse (shiny side up) on a broad table and auditioned lace after lace. She’s not a sewist (currently) so she needed a little guidance about drape and transparency but after a little while she began to appreciate the subtle differences in each lace. And then she made her selection. She has excellent taste and we’ll use this beaded and sequined embroidered lace in delicate touches. She comes for one last fitting tonight before I cut the lace for the princess-seamed bodice and then I’m off to the races (well, not really, I’m still healing but that’s another blog).
I thought you’d appreciate the beautiful materials. There’s nothing quite like silky satin, lace and trims. 
I know my daughter has many painful childhood memories of being dragged into fabric stores against her will but this time, she enjoyed it! 
We oohed and aahed over the displays – just a width of fabric wrapped around a dress form. 
We quickly designed several dresses with some of the gorgeous fabrics but logic set in and we walked out with just the bridal supplies. I have to get through this before I tackle another personal sewing project. God only knows what the mother of the bride will wear!
Here’s your assignment this week:
This week tell me what color do you think I should wear? Let’s take a vote. Tell me if you think deep blue, coral or taupe is the way to go. Post your comments and ONE random winner will be selected to win the Designer Handbags DVD “Nancy Zieman host of TV’s Sewing with Nancy, and embroidery expert Eileen Roche show how to make upscale handbags featuring embroidered accents completely stitched in th embroidery hoop.”
The winner of last week’s assignment answered the following question:
This week tell me what you think makes a design outstanding and you could win a subscription to Designs. Post your comments and ONE random winner will be selected to win $25 gift cards to use on the Desings in Machine Embroidery website!
The winners is:
Glenda: “For me, I like designs that can be used more than once and can be changed by adding more or sometimes taking away. They need to be clean and not too busy. Sometimes less is better.”
216 COMMENTS
Cheryl Ruhnke
9 years agoTaupe, I’ve seen Mother’s of the Bride and Groom wear this color and they look very elegant. Coral may make you look older, and the deep blue may be too bold,
Linda
9 years agoI am the mother of three sons. My good friends have told me the mother of the groom should wear beige and keep their mouth closed! Good advice! The brides mom mom should shine. I vote blue. It’s beautiful but not overpowering. Enjoy this special day. Weddings with friends and family are wonderful!!
esther B
9 years agoI vote for the Blue because you are a beautiful dark complected women who will never outshine your daughter at her wedding. This your daughter, so you should wear what you love and look as beautiful as you can. The groom and his family will only be more appreciative about how beautiful the bride is now and and knowing how she will shine when she is your age. Go for it! Thats what I did when my daughter got married 16 years ago.
DeAnn
9 years agoI vote for the blue. Having seen you in person, I am sure about this. It will make you look as beautiful as the bride! It brings out your natural coloring and makes you look younger and very slim.
Barb
9 years agoBlue is the color. With your coloring beige would be too drab.
Jeanne
9 years agoWhile all of the 3 colors are beautiful, I vote for the deep blue
Judy Little
9 years agohow about the Taupe. But it is hard to choose not knowing your skin tone.
Karen Dyck
9 years agoMaking my wedding dress WITH my mother 45 years ago is one of my best memories. The marriage didn’t last. She is gone, too. I still love that memory.
Sharon R
9 years agoWhen is the wedding? The blue would be beautiful any season, anytime. Coral for spring or daytime, and taupe for fall.
Diane
9 years agoI like the taupe, very elegant and refined
Kathy
9 years agoI vote for deep blue.
Brenda Hennig
9 years agoI like the taupe this color goes with everything and very becoming to all skin tones
Nancy Zieman
9 years agoThe royal blue is my vote—you’d look dynamite in that color. I can envision the scene in my mind, ah breathtaking!
(PS: I already have a Designer Handbags CD and book, wonder why?)
Garnet Storez
9 years agoI agree with Nancy Zieman. The deep blue is exquisite for you. Let us know what style you have chosen!
Mary
9 years agoI’m with Nancy Zieman and vote for the royal blue. After meeting you in person at Sewing Weekend in Beaver Dam, I think you would look fabulous in the Blue!
KAY PESCHKE
9 years agoI echo Nancy’s thoughts. That blue color will look amazing on you! Congrats and Best Wishes to your family!
Sheila
9 years agoI love the deep blue. That’s what I would choose!
Jean Guenther
9 years agoWhat color will the brides maids wear? If your daughter is letting you decide….jump on it and pick…..before the grooms Mother does. All three are pretty. You would look good in all with your coloring! Congrats on making the dress. I opted out….to much pressure!
Micky Forde
9 years agoI think the taupe will look lovely on you
Dona
9 years agoThe blue would look beautiful and elegant. The taupe would make you look sick
nancy drake
9 years agoI think it depends somewhat on what the bridesmaids are wearing. Akso on whether you wish to wear the dress again. The blue would look stunning on you but if you want to wear the dress again you might choose the taupe which will also look good on you.
Joan B
9 years agoOnly the groom’s mother is to “wear taupe and keep her mouth shut”. As a winter you should wear the blue, the coral if a summer wedding.
Elizabeth J Will
9 years agoI vote for the deep blue. Having met you, I think it would go best with your coloring. It is also an elegant, rich color. You won’t out shine the bride, but complement her elegance with your own.
Karen
9 years agoI think the blue would be stunning on you!!
Helen
9 years agoTaupe is very elegant and can be worn with a variety of colours to liven it up.
Lorraine Allen
9 years agoEileen, I vote for the deep blue. It would look elegant on you. I do n’t think the others colors would be very complimentary.
Sue Bischoff
9 years agoI also would like to know what color the bridesmaids are wearing. In my daughter’s wedding, the bridesmaids wore cornflower blue–which looks like the blue you have here, and I wore navy blue. Grooms mother wore taupe.
Michele chavalia
9 years agooh most definitely the blue – hands down.
Cathy Thomas
9 years agoI vote for the dark blue, with your hair and eye color, this would be beautiful on you and the brides mother should look elegant, which the blue does.
Gretta Wilhite
9 years agoill vote for the taupe. It can be very elegant. Be sure to add a touch of lace.
Charleen
9 years agoI like the taupe. It has an easy elegance to it.
Shanon Davis
9 years agoThe dress form above with the black and taupe fabric draped over it would look beautiful on you. Simple yet elegant.
Jean
9 years agoblue.
Sue Knudsen
9 years agoDeep blue is a beautiful color.
Linda McCormick
9 years agoI think the taupe would be gorgeous and very elegant! My sister-in-law wore it at her son’s wedding and she looked beautiful.
Sandi Cunningham
9 years agoWhile my fav color IS blue, I would have to know when is the wedding, what are her flowers, what does the other mother want to wear.
I think taupe would be awesome, elegant and subtle, it might look more like 2nd wedding bride and coral might totally clash with the MOG’s dress.
Sorry I could not be more help
Kathy E.
9 years agoLike many others above, it depends on the season, the time of day, what colors look good on YOU, the flowers, the bridesmaids dresses, etc. Not knowing anything more than the bride will wear white satin, I’d choose the deep blue! I think the color is always elegant and is a crisp, sharp color to coordinate with. Whatever you choose, wear it with joy and confidence! Mostly, power to you for taking on the job of making your daughter’s wedding dress! :0
Cathy Temple
9 years agoI’d go with the blue. But then I love blue.
Barb
9 years agoDeep blue
Shirley Gray
9 years agoMy vote is for taupe. It is soft and peaceful and not overbearing. It will blend in without looking like you are competing with the bride.
Sherrie
9 years agoI would first of what color looks best on you. I personally would vote for the blue. Your daughter would want you to feel your most beautiful and that looks like a beautiful, powerful color. Best wishes on the wedding.
Judy Mayfield
9 years agoEileen, I think the coral would be a good choice. It will reflect on your face and give you a (more) rosy complexion. And it’s such a happy color.
Pamela Meador
9 years agoMy daughter had always wanted me to make her gown too, knowing that I made all of my bridal party gowns as well as my own. But after checking the price per yard of the fabric she wanted, it was less expensive to purchase. I made the veil using some of my veil. I didn’t completely get off the hook, I made her wedding cake and hand made mints to serve over 200 people. It was a wonderful day with a beautiful bride.
becky3580
9 years agoI would go with the taupe and accessorize with whatever color the bridesmaids are wearing.
Dona
9 years agoI’ve met u and believe u r a winter. U would b a knockout in the blue. Mother of the Bride has first choice in colors and style.
Barb Chase
9 years agoFor an evening wedding, I would choose the taupe. It’s very elegant and formal. For an afternoon, I would choose the blue. You are the mother of the bride. You can shine your own light without overshadowing the bride. If you would rather go with something softer, you could choose a lighter tint that will blend nicely.
Diane Gregory
9 years agoAs this is the brides’ day, I would opt for taupe. Her dress should be the stunner, so I vote for the subdued color. That being said, is taupe a color you can wear successfully? You want to look your best too!!
Donna G.
9 years agoI vote for deep blue! And congratulations to your daughter!
Sandra Sanders
9 years agoI think you will look fabulous in the blue color!!!! You must be about to burst with happiness!!
Bev Crabb
9 years agoEither the blue or taupe. Taupe would seem more formal, blue more casual.
Dorina Green
9 years agoIf its a summer wedding, I would go with the peach. It’s a beautiful color. But if it’s a winter wedding, then I don’t think you can go wrong with the blue or taupe. Best wishes to the entire family!
Tee
9 years agoDeep blue
Maxine Mac Neill
9 years agoEileen I made wedding gowns for three daughters and bridemaids dresses for four daughters and even though stressful at the time the day of the wedding you will be so proud of your creation. I agree with taupe but on lighters side. You don’t really want to stand out by wearing the wrong color.
Joanne Banko
9 years agoEileen, your daughter is beautiful! It is quite obvious she belongs to you. You will look spectacular in anything you choose to wear but I do think the blue would be particularly stunning on you.
Wishing you fast healing and happy sewing on that wedding dress 🙂
eileenroche
9 years ago AUTHORThanks Joanne – wish you were around the corner – I would lean on your sewing skills!
Karen
9 years agoAll 3 are great choices, but I think the deep blue would be the best.
Sue
9 years agoI would go with the blue
Jan
9 years agoWow, you get to choose! I only have boys, so the mother of the groom only has one choice (Wear Beige and…..well you know). Actually when #1 son was married my dress was a deep wine color. My DIL is very sweet so I did not have to …..well you know either!
Congratulations, I am sure you will be beautiful no matter what color you wear! And I hope you are feeling better.
Jan
Glenda Marsh
9 years agoDeep blue definitely!!
Mary S
9 years agoThe blue gets my vote. Holding that up against your picture that will look smashing on you. The coral it too much like your skin color and the taupe is blah.
Susie Mackenberg
9 years agoTaupe, your hair and coloring will be fabulous with taupe! Have a blast with this wedding, and let as many people as possible help with the dress — they will have a cherished memory. The best season ever was with my daughter planning her wedding almost 8 years ago…then if you are lucky…GRANDBABIES!!
Lynn
9 years agoI think you would look lovely in blue. If your daughter chooses softer colors for her wedding, then I vote for coral. Good luck with the dress!
Laurie Sieg
9 years agoI think the deep blue will be a great color for you. A color with depth makes a lovely dress and will photograph well. Besides you certainly aren’t old enough to wear plain taupe. Best wishes.
Linda McCurdy
9 years agoThough the taupe is elegant, with your coloring, I think the deep blue.would brighten
your features and enhance you.
Judy O'Dell
9 years agocoral looks great on you. The taupe is for the groom’s mother. She is supposed to wear beige and keep her mouth shut!!!
Jean
9 years agoI love the lace your daughter choose especially with the slight taupe looking color in the sample you posted. I would go with the taupe. I know the other colors are beautiful and you would look fabulous in any of them. I think the Mother of the bride should be a neutral color. Good luck with your decision. Your daughter is going to make a beautiful bride. Have a wonderful day.
Judy H
9 years agoI think all three colors would be beautiful on you, but I would choose a softer, more subtle color like the taupe or coral, rather than the bolder blue which would stand out in the wedding photographs against the brides white making you more of the star of the show rather than the proud mother of the beautiful bride. Which ever color you choose, I know you’ll look lovely, and wear it well. Just heal so you can enjoy the BIG WEDDING DAY!!
Diana
9 years agoMy daughter get marry last January , and I know what challenge can be to make her wedding gown . But I won . I’m sure deep blue will look stunning on you .
Shirley Clark
9 years agoI think the coral is too bright, and I’m not a big fan of taupe, so I’d go with the blue. You also need to consider what looks good on you.
By the way, take a look at this wedding dress made out of toilet paper. My dear friend won $10,000 by designing it with Charmin toilet paper. The contest was put on by Cheap Chic Weddings. Her dress will be made into an actual wedding dress by Kleinfelds.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10206338039750616&set=a.1094297118400.15989.1255737405&type=1&theater
eileenroche
9 years ago AUTHORI read about that contest! Congrats to your friend – what an exciting challenge.
Chris Lyon
9 years agoI love the blue, but I think the coral would be more complimentary to the white satin. The taupe is just too reserved for such an exuberant occasion. So coral it is.
Laurie
9 years agoEileen, I think the blue. I think the Gray would be too dull. And the Coral I don’t think,um maybe hot pink. But the blue puts a sparkle in your eyes! I can see you in a long dress, sleeveless or a short cap sleeve, and a pleated V neck. What does your daughter think?
eileenroche
9 years ago AUTHORMy daughter thinks blue.
Tami
9 years agoThe taupe would go with any color the bridesmaids have chosen and would look beautiful for any season as well!
Casie Williams
9 years agoLove the deep blue! I’m assuming you wouldn’t select it as an option if it wasn’t a good color for you. Go for it!
Ed Lawson
9 years agoCoral would be my guess.
Zoe
9 years agoLets look at it from photography angle.
If you wear taupe you will blend in with the wedding dress giving a more uniform look to overall photograph.
If you wear coral or blue and if you are the only one in that color your dress will show up more than other in the photograph.
I agree your dress and groom Mom’s would be best a shade of the bridesmaid’s dresses so you all blend and complement the bride. That way you have a coordinated photograph.
The photographs are what you will look at for years to come.
Beal
9 years agoI vote for blue first and coral second. I think you might look too washed out and bland in taupe (but maybe I’m prejudiced because *I* look washed out in taupe 😉
J K
9 years agoAll three are beautiful colors and could be lovely!
Take a piece of each color and hold it up to your face. Look in the mirror and take pictures. Indoors and outdoors at the time of day the wedding and reception will take place. Yoir decision will be very clear!
Jody Mason
9 years agoTaupe. The day is about the bride and our role is to support her. Taupe is elegant, flattering, and comfortable . . . three things that help us do that!
Evelyn
9 years agoI think taupe would be the perfect color. So elegant for your daughters wedding. I know you will be such a proud Mother of the Bride!
Sandy Hoy
9 years agoI think the blue will enhance the white of your daughter’s white gown. Almost all of the wedding lace I have seen has a slight “blue” sparkle to it in the light. What can be more classic! (I wore a dusty purple, but I stood for the bride also, since her mother is deceased. She had chosen lavender, purple, and white as her colors. Our son was in Air Force dress uniform.) Have a wonderful experience with your daughter. Many wishes for a complete recovery!
Ellen
9 years agoI vote for the blue. You won’t blend into the background and I love the color blue so I am slightly biased.
Teresa
9 years agoTaupe – will not overpower pictures. Best wishes.
Elaine
9 years agoWith your coloring and personality, I vote for the blue. You’ll be beautiful in it.
Chris
9 years agoElaine, I feel you should look at your fave dress and go with that colour. I think you are exceptionally brave, not because I think you can’t do it just because of the stress. When my eldest daughter got engaged my nightmare was that she’d ask me to make her dress! Literally I woke one night soon after we heard the happy news after dreaming it was only 3 weeks to the wedding and Fi had looked at all the dresses and hated them all, “Mum, you’ll make me what I like, please….” I phoned the next morning to check it was all just a dream!
eileenroche
9 years ago AUTHORThankfully, the nightmares haven’t started yet – I’m trying to ward them off by making progress on the task. I often mutter this mantra: “Don’t dread, do.” It helps with the procrastination tendencies…
Linda
9 years agoIf you are the same coloring as your daughter the blue or taupe would be lovely. If you are more of a blond or red head with pale skin or freckles, then I would go with the coral. Of course it also might depend on the colors of your daughters wedding. If if your daughter is going with pale greens, you might not want the blue.
Jan
9 years agoBy looking at your picture above I believe the blus would be your best color.
Jan
9 years agoThat is the blue.
Jan
9 years agoBy looking at your picture above I believe the blue would be your best color.
joyce
9 years agoDark blue is so rich looking,taupe is a tricky color it does not look good on all skin tones .
Nancy Williams
9 years agothe taupe looks elegant flatters and photograths very well… but its what the Bride thinks is most important after all its Her day! 🙂 good luck!
Mary Hawkins
9 years agoit all depends on what colors the other attendants are wearing and the flowers. I feel you could pull off any of the 3 colors depending on the color theme of the wedding as well as when the wedding is:)
Lynn
9 years agoTaupe would be best in my opinion.
Janet Rettig
9 years agoOh you can never go wrong with a blue in my opinion for the mother of the bride. I think it is very flattering and shows great wisdom on the part of the mother.
Martine
9 years agoAll three colours are beautiful. I think blue would look lovely, but maybe I am prejudiced as blue makes my eyes look brighter. Whatever you choose, enjoy your day!
Alice
9 years agoI vote blue.
I have five daughters. I have a friend with only sons. She told me that as the mother of the groom her job was to wear beige and keep her mouth closed.:)
I guess the Mother of the bride gets to do whatever she likes.
You have worked very hard to do everything in your power so that your daughter has a memorable and cherished day. When you look at photos of this wonderful day you want to look beautiful and happy. Do not wait until the last minute to make your dress. In the end ignore all of us and choose what you love!
Judy G
9 years agoDeep blue for someone with your coloring, but it kind of depends on the style of the outfit you will be wearing.
Karen Poole
9 years agoI vote for Deep blue!
Theresa Cobb
9 years agoDeep Blue. My sister said that the Mother of the Groom is suppose to wear Beige and be quiet. Taupe is too close to Beige and Coral can be iffy on some people. Go with the Blue.
Francine mollica
9 years agoI vote for the blue. That will be beautiful with your dark hair and is a very regal color for the mother of the bride.
mary grace
9 years agoTaupe will look more elegant..imop
susan lorio
9 years agothis is a tough one. i have blonde hair and blue eyes so for me i love the blue. i also love coral, it is one of my favorite colors. if you saw my wardrobe you would know that. because of your hair coloring and skin tone, I think i like the coral color for you. the taupe seems a little too drab. the coral is a very bright color and will compliment your coloring well. that’s my 2 cents! can’t wait to see the finished wedding dress and your dress as well. good luck! i have 3 children and have had 3 weddings, the last just last November. it’s alot of fun and alot of work. enjoy!
Anne Johnson
9 years agoAll three choices are beautiful. Speaking from someone going through the same decisions you are, my son’s wedding is in October, I know there is much more to this decision than what color your fans like best. Your skin tone plays a role in whatever we wear. What color(s) are the wedding party wearing? Are you and the Mother-of-the-Groom to be the same, contrasting, not even in the same room (lol) … But in the end, if your daughter is like mine was when she got married, it’s not your fans choice, it’s not even your choice, it’s your daughter’s choice!!!
Sherry McCary
9 years agoYou look awesome in royal blue. Brings out the glow in your skin and the sparkle in your eyes.
Patti
9 years agoAny of the three colors would be beautiful, however, I think the blue would be the most beautiful on you. If I were deciding, I would need to know the colors of the wedding party as well. Ultimately, it will be your daughter’s choice!
Sheila
9 years agoI think the deep blue would be stunning!
Gayle
9 years agoThe coral because it complements most skins whereas the blue can be stark with a not so young face. (we cant be 25 when we give away a daughter) The taupe is draining.
Brenda
9 years agoI loved the coral. I have always thought that coral was a beautiful color and especially a great color for a wedding. The blue is beautiful but a little loud for me at a wedding could make you stand out more than the bride. The taupe is pretty too but it is the coral for me.
Vivian Hansen
9 years agoThe deep blue will look awesome on you!
I made my daughters wedding dress. She lived in a different state, so we met half way between, to do muslin fittings, in a Cracker Barrel restroom!
Sharon
9 years agoSo when is the wedding? I’d pick the blue if it is a fall or winter wedding and taupe if it’s a spring or summer event. So amazing that you and your daughter are sharing this time making her dress.
Susan Claughton
9 years agoI think the Taupe, as it is very elegant. It should also go with whatever colour the bridesmaids are wearing.
Carol Coleman
9 years agoI like the Coral.
Jane King
9 years agoPart of the meanings of your colours: Blue reduces stress, creating a sense of calmness, relaxation and order, nurturing Mother and protecting Taupe is relaxing, confident, casual, reassuring, nature, earthy, solid, reliable, The colour coral radiates warmth and happiness offers emotional strength in difficult times. The pink part of the coral is feminine and romantic, affectionate and intimate, thoughtful and caring. I think Coral.
Cindy Jenkins
9 years agoLike the blue or the taupe depending on what it looks like with your skin tone. Use the blue if the color looks good on you if not use the taupe. Both will look very elegant.
Cathy Ervin
9 years agoHaving seen you in many videos, I think with your coloring and given the occasion, I would go with Coral. Soften the coral with cream trim. The combination would give you a soft glow, which would reflect your joy.
Tammy Lucus
9 years agoI love the blue and it would be beautiful on you! BUT…I think certain shades of taupe can be such an elegant color. Don’t wear a color to blend, you want to look your best that day too! I say no to the coral! With your coloring the orangey/yellowy colors will dull your beautiful skin tone.
Good luck with both the wedding and your recovery!!
Judie
9 years agoDefinitely not the coral!!~ I think the blue would be very complimentary but my vote is for the taupe. It is so classy and elegant. It exudes confidence, warmth and would be easily accessorized. Add some coordinated bling and you would be stunning!!
Toni
9 years agoBlue! But then, I always vote for blue. Its my favorite color, next to purple, that is… Seriously, I think blue generally flatters the bluish undertones in most whites.
Joyce Lockyer
9 years agoBlue! The other colors are nice but they lack life! You have a vest for life and the blue has depth and life and it will photograph very well. The other colors are just to safe.
Sara Seagrist
9 years agoI can’t see you in any color except the blue, a beautiful color for a beautiful lady. Best wishes.
Dori N
9 years agoI think the blue would be dynamite on you but I, too am a fan of the understated elegance of taupe.
Bonnie Gray
9 years agoBlue would look best on you with your coloring!! Congrats!
Donna S
9 years agoThat blue will look great on you Eileen!
Rosieq
9 years agoTaupe can easily wash people out, and, trust me, as Mother of groom or bride, you will be exhausted. I think a bright clear coral for afternoon, or a softer coral for evening would be just the pick up you might need and want with your coloring.
Jeannette Covan
9 years agoI like the deep blue.
Patty Sack
9 years agoI think you should wear the deep blue. It will look great on you with your coloring!
Silvana
9 years agoI think the deep blue would look stunning on you.
Good luck! 🙂
Kathy
9 years agoLike the coral–soft, but pretty! Taupe can be elegant with the right skin tones, however, can be very drab with others–congratulations on the upcoming wedding!
Gayle Vick
9 years agoBlue would be absolutely beautiful with your dark brown hair. I vote for the blue.
teresa stagliano
9 years agoI think the deep blue will go beautiful with your hair color and gorgeous personality
Sharon K
9 years agoWith your your coloring, definitely the deep blue. The coral would make you look orange and I think the taupe would wash you out.
Diane
9 years agoBlue! However, don’t be close-minded when you go fabric shopping. I’ve seen a bride completely change wedding color when she fell in love with a piece of fabric. You might do the same.
eileenroche
9 years ago AUTHOROh I have been known to make a last minute change…
Susan
9 years agoBlue is my vote. It defines you as a mother. “Blue is the helper, the rescuer, the friend in need. It’s success is defined by the quality and quantity of its relationships. It is a giver, not a taker.”
eileenroche
9 years ago AUTHORLovely quote, Susan, thanks for sharing!
Patricia Kemp
9 years agoOh, the blue, definitely. You will be a beautiful mother of the bride in that color. It truly will enhance your coloring.
Jo-Anne
9 years agoWell, I used a process of elimination. Since the wedding is probably coming up soon, I think the blue would be the best for a fall/winter wedding. I believe the blue would also bring out your eyes. The peach is beautiful too but would be best suited for a summer or spring wedding. The beige unfortunately does not sing enough and would probably not be the most flattering on a day when you will want to shine.
Karin C
9 years agoOh, I’d definitely vote for coral first, then blue, then taupe, only if you HAVE to. Taupe blends in to every background and looks just plain muddy to me. Also tends to muddy most skin tones, imho. And, as a mom-of-two brides, you gotta know my opinion counts! HAHAHA, ROF at that one! Seriously, you are a bright, vibrant personality, so no reason to hide that beauty. Your daughter will shine and be beautiful in her satin and lace (beautiful choices!), and she wouldn’t want you to fade away in the background.
Carole D
9 years agoI would choose the blue. The fabric and laces she chose are stunning! I expect you will post a photo of the finished dress for us to oooh and ahhh over.
Aprille Sweatt
9 years agoYou are so pretty and have such a pretty figure, and I think you would look fabulous in that blue!
judy
9 years agoI think the coral is best. The blue is too blue and the taupe just sits there. Coral is classy, not too out there and won’t just blend in with everything else. Your daughter does have good taste. The fabric and laces were lovely.
Valerie
9 years agoDefinitely the deep blue!
Colleen Gee
9 years agoI would go with the taupe and choose a classic design without a lot of trim and ruffles. that way you can accessorize with colors for the wedding and then after use the dress for other occasions. it would be easy to change the accessories and the “feel” of the dress to suite the occasion. also, if the dress is a full length you could shorten it for daytime use or to convert to a Church dress.
Beverly Schulte
9 years agoI’d go with the taupe. I see it as very elegant and would go well with your hair and skin coloring. The coral would be very nice too, again with your coloring, but coral is a bit trickier to wear. The blue is too bold I feel for the mother of the bride. So there you go….taupe! In fact I wore taupe for both of my girls’ weddings. Both were totally different styles of dresses though, and with your talent, I know it will be beautiful! Good luck with your daughter’s dress! Can’t to see pictures of it.
Vicky Isliefson
9 years agoI vote for the coral, just because my mother-in-law would look good in it! I would put my mother in the blue. Taupe is for walls.
eileenroche
9 years ago AUTHORI’ll have to remember that taupe is for walls!
Sandra Miller
9 years agoI say lay the fabrics across the inside of your arm and pick the one that contrasts the best with your skin.
Sue
9 years agoI think the deep blue would be outstanding
Joy Teague
9 years agoDeep blue would be my first choice. Taupe second choice.
I think either will look good on you. The fabric and lace your
daughter picked is beautiful.
Debra Christie
9 years agoI vote for the deep blue.
Debra Christie
9 years agoThe deep blue is my vote.
Meghan M.
9 years agoCongrats! I’m getting married in October, so I share your excitement!
As much as some of the other colors are fun, I think you’ll be happiest in the taupe long term. It photographs well, both indoors and out, and you won’t upstage your darling daughter. Hope she has a fantastic wedding and an even better marriage!
Jackie
9 years agoI vote blue, with your dark hair and blue eyes you will shine. My daughter asked me to make her wedding dress as well, we also went to a variety of bridal stores so she could try different styles and have a better sense of what she wanted. I purchased the 25 yards of bridal satin to make her dress with extra in case I made a mistake, well…she decided to purchase one instead and instead of a wedding dress I’ve been making Christening gowns with the fabric. I will be making them until I die and still have fabric left over, need any bridal satin anyone lol.
eileenroche
9 years ago AUTHORI wish I had known – I would have taken nine yards off of your hands!
Paulette
9 years agoI choose taupe. It is elegant. The dark blue will make you stand out in the photos and it’s your daughter’s day to shine. Just take a few photos on your smart phone and you will see how the colors show up in a snap shot.
Just like making a quilt.
eileenroche
9 years ago AUTHORGood advice – gee, what did do before cell photography? So handy!
Diane S.
9 years agoI think you should wear blue. Taupe sounds too “quiet” for you and coral… well, it doesn’t seem like your color. Blue on you will make you “seen, as well as heard!”
Peggy V
9 years agoI think the blue is the best choice!! Whatever you choose you will look lovely!! Beautiful daughter, looks just like her mother!!
Judie Sparling
9 years agoMy vote is for the blue which is more vibrant a colour and would look great on you.
April
9 years agoWell I am assuming you chose these 3 colors in regard to what you thought would work with the wedding. I must say the taupe would be elegant and subdued in a very upscale wedding but you would look stunning in the coral with your dark hair. I say pick the color that makes you feel the most radiant after all it is an emotional day, bad if you feel like your loosing a daughter. Elated you are gaining a whole new fine man in the family. weddings have so much going on behind the scene on the day where what you feel good in I say.
Jackie Peters
9 years agoYou are the Mother of the Bride. Stand out in the blue. You will look great in this color. This is your daughter show and you should stand out with her.
I just had a brother get married and I was surprised how I felt about standing out. Just dressed quietly. I remembered my daughter wedding and thought about how the colors made me so happy.
Bernice
9 years agoBlue, by far, be bold, after all, you made the bride’s dress, Let your talent shine, when I made our oldest daughter’s gown I had access to 7th Street in Philly for fabric, when our middle daughter got married I was in Ohio already, limited, I embroidered the entire bodice and hem line, my 180 got a real workout. Have fun and realism every moment with your daughter!
eileenroche
9 years ago AUTHOROh…I used to buy all of my fabric in Philly but on 4th Street. I haven’t made it back there in years but wow – what fun memories. Actually, the stores on 4th St. would have been the ones that fill Janelle’s childhood memories of being dragged around fabric stores.
Pam K
9 years agoYou should wear the Taupe, it will look elegant on you.
Jennifer Padden
9 years agoI vote for elegant taupe. It is such a versatile color and you will allow your daughter to shine among beautiful women. I can easily see some gorgeous lace and sequins on your dress too.
Robin Sankbeil
9 years agoHi Eileen, I’ve met you at Amy Baughman’s event and believe the deep blue would be an extremely flattering color. IMHO, Your dark hair and olive-ish medium skin tone would best complimented with the blue!
Good Luck creating your daughter’s wedding dress. What pride you must feel! Congratulations!
eileenroche
9 years ago AUTHORThank you, Robin. We had fun at Amy Baughman’s event, didn’t we? I’m not quite at the pride stage – I’ll wait to see how the dress comes out!
Janie Begnaud
9 years agoI vote for the Blue. As Bride’s Mother you have your choice. The groom’s Mother may go along with a blue in the same family, but you would look best in the Blue because of your coloring. Be proud to be Mother of the Bride.
Susan T
9 years agoBlue! Your daughter is beautiful and no one will outshine her on her day especially in a dress made by Mom.
Sherrie
9 years agoI would coordinate the color of your dress with what the bridesmaids are wearing so that it does not clash. Think photos. I would vote for the blue or the coral.
Any color that compliments your skin color would be beautiful. Hope you daughter and your family has a beautiful day.
suzi
9 years agomost definitely Blue Taupe may shout elegant but can also be drab and washed out.
dot
9 years agoMost definitely the blue. And, if it is your daughter’s choice of color don’t think anything more about it. Obviously, she thinks it is the best color for HER mom. I made my daughter’s wedding gown and hand-beaded it with thousands of seed pearls, sequins, bugle beads, etc. Also made all the bridesmaids and flower girls dresses. Would not trade the experience for anything.
Frances Powell
9 years agoBlue. You want to wear a color that will look good in pictures and not wash you out. I think you would disappear in the taupe and the coral could make your complexion look orange in photos.
Shaton
9 years agoI vote for the blue. It is one of my favorite colors.
Denise
9 years agoTaupe. Elegant and you won’t outshine the bride.
Rebecca
9 years agoI think blue will look nice in the photos in the years to came. Some colors age better than others. I think blue will alway be nice.
Andrea
9 years agoThe blue. I think that the color is very complimentary and elegant for your coloring
Kim
9 years agoI think the blue would be beautiful on you. If it is a very formal evening wedding then the taupe might be a better choice. Blue would be my first choice. I hope you you will share a photo of the dress after the wedding (we wouldn’t want to spoil the surprise by seeing it before the wedding)
Carolyn Phillips
9 years agoWhat color is your favorite? Blue is my favorite color, so I am prejudice. But I think the blue would be gorgeous on you.
Linda Lester
9 years agoAlthough the blue would be a gorgeous color for you, I think you should go with the taupe. It’s the bride’s day and all eyes should be on her. All three selections are beautiful and whichever you decide I’m sure your daughter will be very proud.
Ruth Peterson
9 years agoI vote blue. It would look awesome on you, and I think jewel tones rock! The taupe looks too bland, the coral might work with your coloring but doesn’t work well with other colors as much.
Good luck with the dress! I can’t wait to see the final product.
I hope you are feeling better and recover completely! Weddings can be so fun!
eileenroche
9 years ago AUTHORThank you Ruth, I’m on the mend!
Carol Bell
9 years agoDeep blue. I had the same problem when trying to figure out what I was going to wear for my daughters wedding 2 years ago. I picked the deep blue for me and I took it will look great on you as well.
Lisa Parr
9 years agoOf course all these colors are great and from what I can in your photos you should be able to wear any if them well. Without knowing the wedding “colors” or season, I would say Taupe neutral but RICH AND would look elegant in the wedding photos with your daughter. Wishing you and your daughter a wonderful day!!
Jean
9 years agoWear blue.it goes with your beautiful eyes and skin tone.
Elizabeth
9 years agoI think the blue will be great. I would like a coral IF you have a tan and it has enough pink to not make you look yellow. The right blue would be my favorite. Taupe is for the grooms mom!!
Nicki Woodard
9 years agoThe blue is beautiful.
Karen
9 years agoThe deep blue.
Beth
9 years agoThe question is, what do you like and feel good in? I’m a coral girl myself, always makes me feel special. Which color does that for you?
Kathy
9 years agoI too am making my daughter’s dress and even though she has had to try it on countless times and we have had to tweak several things I wouldn’t have missed it for anything! I vote for the blue. It’s a beautiful color and will look radiant!
Lynne
9 years agoDeep blue. It will be elegant and you will look stunning.
Virginia
9 years agoi vote for blue. I wore that color for my daughter’s wedding and everyone loved the color.
Donna
9 years agoThe coral and taupe are nice choices, but the deep blue will look stunning on you! Even though it’s your daughter’s wedding day, as the mother of the bride, you have a special place in her heart and want to look just as beautiful too. All suggestions aside, go with the color that feels right on you. Congratulations!
Sue Reifschneider
9 years agoi ALSO THINK THE blue. The Taupe would wash u out and I think the Coral would make u look Yellow.
Audrey Harrill
9 years agoWhat are the ‘wedding colors’?? That should have some factor in the decision. Personally I really think the blue is gorgeous and would work well with your coloring.
JoAnn Doolos
9 years agoI so enjoyed you story of shopping with your daughter and what a treat to see the beautiful selection. Hope you will post a photo of the complete gown at some point. Of the three colors suggested, I think the taupe or blue. The coral would work better for a spring/summer wedding. Have you thought of using a deep purple? You would look great in that majestic color too. Good luck in find beautiful fabric for yourself.
Sheila Edmondson
9 years agoVery ,very late —have been out of town but having seen you in this blog for a while—definitely deep blue. your coloring speaks blue and the pictures later will definitely compliment you and the day ! Cudos to you for making the dress. I made my daughter’s veil from her grandmother’s wedding dress and that was stressful enough. Have fun !!!
Dianne Ballinger
9 years agoI love the blue, and looking at your picture i believe it would be stunning on you.
Pat O
9 years agoI vote for blue because you’ll look beautiful in it! Blue is my favorite. I wore it as mother of the bride and mother of the groom (didn’t know about that “beige thing”, so I guess I committed a major wedding offense. But the wedding police never showed up, so all is good.) I didn’t get to make my daughter’s dress because she and my daughter-in-law are both excellent bargain shoppers. I did, however, do extensive remodeling of the bridesmaids dresses for both weddings, and I made memory quilts for both my daughter and son, which my daughter called “the most awesomest gift EVER”, so I’m happy.
Many blessings to both you and your daughter (and your future son-in-law!) on this happy day!
Mary Parker
9 years agoHi Eileen,
Since weddings are a happy occasion, my vote is for coral, I think the coral is a happy color, bright and cheerful.
What do you think?
Thanks,
Mary
June
9 years agoI vote the deep blue, as you are the Mother of the Bride. You will be stunning with your daughter. have fun!!!
Darlene Bares
9 years agoI love weddings. I think you’d look great in the royal blue, that color would shine on you. The taupe would be my second choice. Coral is my favorite color, to me it would be more geared for a spring/summer wedding. My Mom was an excellent seamtress and has made several wedding dresses over the years. I remember hand beading the lace that was down the front to the back of the dress for my sister. I wish i paid more attention to her sewing talent.
Cheryl
9 years agoHaving met you at Baby Lock Tech last year, I vote for the cobalt blue. Any of the colors will be great on you, but I think you will agree that blue is ‘your color’!
Doris Sweazy
9 years agoI have pondered over the choices & have finally come to the conclusion that, in my opinion, the gorgeous royal blue would be the perfect color for your complexion. The taupe may cause you to look a little washed out! With your skin coloring, the coral could possibly cause you to appear with a yellow undertone. The royal blue would accent your color while still allowing your daughter to “shine” on HER day. =)
Carolyn Wolf
9 years agoI think the blue would enhance your coloring. It is such a cool color.
Eva
9 years agoI vote for the coral.
Sheri
9 years agoI agree that all three colors are gorgeous but I have a personal inclination to head to the blue if you have blue eyes and the coral if you have brown or hazel eyes. A wedding is such a wonderful time, that I opt for brighter is better. The taupe is pretty but I’ve seen several MOB or MOG seem washed out because their coloring and makeup just make them fade into the background.
annette rady
9 years agoHaving seen you in person at an embroidery event, I definitely think that the Blue is for you-with your fair skin and dark hair… I’m sure that the coral would be lovely but the Blue makes a statement !
Congratulations!
Maureen O
9 years agoI think you would be stunning in the blue. The coral second and not the taupe at all. Being picky and never liking the total of any gown I chose to make mine.
At the time almost 42 years ago, I found an ad in the back of a bridal magazine from a design school in GA. They sent an extensive list of measurements to take and asked for sketches of what I wanted. The pattern they made was a perfect fit and I loved it. I know you will love doing this and the memory will last on forever.
Barbara
9 years agoTaupe as it will be beautiful on you and it will let your daughter be the one that stands out for her day.
Carol
9 years agoWithout a doubt, the royal blue is the perfect color for you. Whatever you choose, you will be a beautiful mother of the bride. When is the wedding?
Pat K
9 years agoI’m thinking that you and your daughter probably took into consideration the colors of the wedding, time of the year & time of the wedding when you picked out the 3 colors you are going to choose from. So, I like the blue. My Mom wore that same color to my wedding and she looked wonderful. I know you will look wonderful too. I’m sure it will come down to what your daughter & you think will look the best for your day. What ever you pick, you will look beautifu. The material & laces she choose are just beautiful. I hope it all goes together easy for you. I know it will be gorgeous. Take it easy and get some rest in. Hope you will be up and running at 100% before long. Your daughter is a mini you. She is going to be beautiful. Wish her the best for me.
I kind of feel like I know you more since we where together at Jackman’s last year in St. Louis. You and Marie were so kind and easy to talk to. Full of alot of info & fun.
Dori
9 years agoI think the blue would be very elegant on you–just, as the mother, I would keep the design sort of simple (you don’t want to outshine your beautiful daughter)–let the blue show your elegance.
Donna
6 years agoI vote for the Blue with your skin tone you would make such a BEAUTIFUL Mother of the bride in blue. It is just the right tone for you. I was so fortunate to be able to meet you & your sister (a long long time ago in Seattle)I think.
Thank You for all your help.