Dear Bride,

DO NOT under any circumstances follow the advice of Prudie by calling your mother-in-law-to-be an "old hag" that "no one wants to see your saggy flesh". That is the worst advice ever!!!

This woman may have eccentric taste - and maybe even lack of better judgment... but she is going to be a part of your life as long as you and your husband are together. (Which may not be too long if you use Prudie's colorful words).

Your wedding is your day - and you will be the center of attention no matter what your mother-in-law decides to wear. Worst-case... buy her a shawl or jacket and request she uses it in the pictures.

~Conqueress~

When I read Prudie's response, I immediately feared that the woman would not understand Prudie's sarcasm. It is very clear in her her first statement about a 51 year old woman taking advice from a 25 year old. Prudie was trying to point out how rude it would be for this bride to tell someone what to wear.

If the bride wanted to BUY her mother-in-law a dress for the wedding and make her part of the wedding party, then she could select a dress for her. But this is a grown woman and she has the right to wear whatever she wishes. The bride may not like it, but what a silly thing for a bride to feel upset over on her wedding day!