With so many designers focussing specifically on mother of the bride outfits there is no reason to feel you have to look frumpy. After all, once the bride and groom make their entrance, all eyes turn to the proud parents. It is therefore important to look your best without upstaging the bride!

When choosing an outfit, there are plenty of choices to make: fabric, colour, style and accessories. If you are struggling to find an outfit, you may find you already own something suitable, after all you don’t have to buy something specifically from a bridal shop. However if you are searching for a new outfit, try taking your daughter with you. This is likely to make the experience more enjoyable, she will give you an honest opinion and let you know how she would like you to look on the day also.

Trouser or skirt suits need not be boring, there are many interesting pieces to choose from in shops and online. Try to pick your outfit as soon as possible; that way you will be able to concentrate on helping the bride and groom with their organisations. This is also beneficial as you will be able to inform the mother of the groom of your choice so if needed, she can plan her outfit to compliment yours. Think about the wedding photos; if you are finding it difficult to decide on a colour or the bride and groom are conscious of co-ordination then pick a shade of the colour theme, clashing with the bridesmaids will not look great in a photo!

When choosing a style think of your body shape. This is crucial to determine what will be flattering and look good on you. For example, if you are pear shaped (i.e. most shapely around the hips) choose trousers that are loose and don’t cling to the hips, also choose skirts that taper at the hemline to stop you looking ‘square.’ Tops should be semi-fitted or tailored to draw attention to your top half and jackets should cut above or below the hip (rather than on, as so to not draw attention to them.) Shoulder pads in jackets also help to balance your top half out. Therefore the key is to balance. If you have a round shape (generous bust and middle with narrow hips and legs) avoid fitted tops that focus on a larger middle and instead wear tunic shapes that detract from the middle and focus on legs. Go for a tailored skirt or trousers to focus on slimmer legs. Also, on jackets wear minimal lapels and collars that won't accentuate your top half. For hourglass figures make sure the attention of your outfit is on the slimmest part of your body – the waist. This can be done with belts or ties and wrap round blouses.

Accessories can often make or break an outfit so make sure they are chosen carefully. Wraps and shawls can be perfect for dressing up a summer wedding outfit and a hat can finish an outfit perfectly. Hats should be chosen according to face shape, height and hairstyle to make sure it is not too overwhelming, or if you're not after a hat a floral hairpiece or fascinator can be just as effective. Think about the style and colour of your outfit, ie. if you are wearing a heavily patterned fabric then minimal or plain accessories will work best. However plain fabrics can be brightly dressed up with more adventurous accessories and shoes to add a touch of glamour.