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I am the mother of the groom.  The wedding is  in January at 5:00 p.m.  Is it appropriate for my dress to be  an elegant sleeveless dress?

–MLM

It is appropriate to wear a sleeveless dress under the condition that your arms are buff. What I would question is the dress code for the ‘mothers’ (mother-of-the-groom, grandmothers, aunts, godmothers, and stepmothers), which, traditionally, is set by the mother-of-the-bride. Find out the length, style and color of the MOB’s outfit and follow suit with the color in a similar hue. Think about the wedding photos and how you will fit in with the other ‘mothers.’ We want you to express your style, but you will want to blend in. Also, consider the climate and temperature in January at five o’clock, if the ceremony is in a church or other house of worship, some of which will require covered upper arms. That said, if your elegant sleeveless dress has a coordinating jacket, which can be taken off for the reception, then your outfit is appropriate.

~Didi