It is up to the Bride to determine what her mother and future mother-in-law wear for the wedding as far as style and color. If the Maid of Honor; Bridesmaids are in long dresses it often looks better in pictures for the mother of the bride and mother of the groom to wear long dresses. If it is a matter of finances wedding shops and wedding rentals are available to rent the dress of your choice and it's not necessary to buy a long dress you may not wear again. Simple lined designs with perhaps a little beading (if you want) is the best way to go. If you buy your dress and the bride is fine with it, buy a classic fit so you can shorten the dress for future use.
