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An Essential Guide to Choosing a Mother of the Bride Outfit


Cat Arnott
Cat Arnott Updated:
27th of February 2024

The mother of the bride holds an important role in a wedding party. So, deciding on the best mother of the bride outfit to wear on your child's special day can be quite stressful. Here, we have everything you need to consider when choosing a mother of the bride outfit.

Traditionally, a stereotypical Mother of the Bride or Groom outfit followed something of a uniform: a cropped, fitted jacket atop an understated sheath. Luckily, that's in the past. However, more options can often become overwhelming! But, there are still a few considerations to take into account. We cover the different options and factors that may influence your mother of the bride outfit below.

What are the mother of the bride outfit options?

Fancy Frocks of Clitheroe Mother of the Bride

In the past, the mother of the bride or mother of the groom outfits had a reputation for being matronly or overly conservative. But, that's no longer the case. Mums are encouraged to wear an outfit that they love (and feel amazing in) to their wedding of their son or daughter.

In terms of specific choices, you'll want to go for something that is practical and comfortable to move around in, as you're likely to be on your feet for most of the day. Knee-length dresses are always an elegant option, but you could go for something floor-length if the theme calls for it. Trouser suits or jumpsuits are also becoming increasingly popular as an option for a mother of the bride outfit. So, from sleek evening gowns and trendy midi to maxi dresses and structured jumpsuits, there are plenty of great options out there for your mother of the bride look.

Factors that affect a mother of the bride outfit

With so many fantastic options available, mums might feel a little overwhelmed! So, take these factors into consideration when narrowing down your mother of the bride outfit choice.

The couple's opinion

Charisma of Fawley Mother of the Bride Supplier

It is their big day after all! But this does not mean that the couple should choose their mums' look for her. Choosing the mother of the bride's or groom's outfit should be a collaborative effort. Before shopping for a mother of the bride or groom outfit, it's best to ask the couple for their guidance or opinion. Follow their cues about style, colour, and degree of formality. Doing so will ensure that the mother of the bride or groom's outfit is appropriate for the wedding day. But, don't forget that it's a special day for mum too, and she'll want to look and feel her best.

This is also a great bonding opportunity for you and your child's partner's mum! Perhaps you know them really well already or perhaps this is a chance to get to know them better, helping each other find your outfits with the guidance of your children is a great way to learn more about each other before the wedding.

The colour theme and the wedding party

There's not one specific colour the mother of the bride should wear. But, the bridesmaid dresses and wedding colour scheme can both influence the mother of the bride's outfit. Traditionally, the mother of the bride's dress can complement the wedding party's colours, though not necessarily match. Therefore, it may be best to wait until the bride chooses the bridesmaids' dresses to begin shopping.

Fancy Frocks of Clitheroe Mother of the Bride

The bride may prefer to have corresponding colours for a cohesive look, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Instead of matching colours, consider looking for a mother of the bride dress in a similar hue or a colour that compliments the bridesmaids. If the bridal party has mismatched dresses, the mother of the bride can easily find a look that complements the rest of the wedding party.

It's also fine for the mother of the bride to wear an outfit that doesn't match the bridesmaids or the wedding colour scheme. Pastel colours such as pale blue or mint are always flattering and elegant. You might want to avoid anything that would clash or draw too much attention away from the bride such as bright patterns. Really, there's only one colour not to wear; anything in the same colour as the bride's dress!

The Venue

Charisma of Fawley Mother of the Bride Supplier

The wedding venue can also help determine what the mother of the bride wears. A formal setting calls for a more upscale outfit, while a casual look is appropriate for laid-back celebrations. For example, a coat dress and elegant shift would be best for a formal traditional church wedding while a country marquee wedding would call for a softer, more relaxed dress.

Seasonality

Charisma of Fawley Mother of the Bride

Of course, the season, and the weather it brings, are always going to influence your outfit. As with the bridesmaid gowns, mother of the bride outfits should be appropriate for the season. For example, the mother of the bride may not want to wear a long, heavy skirt or lace sleeves in the middle of summer, and she may prefer to cover up with a wrap or shawl for a winter wedding. So, consider elements such as the length, weight of the material, sleeve style, and colour when making your choice.

How should you accessorise a mother of the bride outfit?

Charisma of Fawley Mother of the Bride Supplier

Traditionally, mother of the bride outfits are associated with stunning hats. It is especially expected for the mother of the bride to wear a hat in most religious venues. However, it again depends on the type of wedding you are attending. If it is a formal, grand celebration, why not make the most of the special occasion! However, the couple may desire a more relaxed wedding, in which case a headband or small fascinator may be more appropriate.

Wedding Hat Mother of the Bride

Heels, your favourite smart coat, and a sleek clutch bag are fail-safe options when it comes to completing your look. For summer weddings, you could carry a light bolero or a pashmina to wrap up in when it becomes cooler in the evening. Feel elegant and sophisticated with beautiful accessories that will add a little sparkle to your ensemble. When deciding which items to choose, consider which parts of you will be on show.

Should the mother of the bride and mother of the groom coordinate?

Traditionally, the mother of the bride would buy her dress first and then share her choice with the mother of the groom. However, there is no need for this anymore! The mothers may still wish to coordinate. You don't want to accidentally show up in the same outfit!

Burr Bridal Mother of the Bride

The mothers' dresses don't have to match (unless that's what the couple wants), but they should complement each other. The couple may prefer to have their mums wear complementary colours, in which case both are advised to discuss outfit ideas together. While not necessarily required, having the mothers collaborate on their outfits will make for a smoother process and eliminate any style mishaps! Remember, you'll be taking lots of pictures together and the only people that should stand out is the couple.

What about the mother of the bride's hair and make-up?

Charisma of Fawley Mother of the Bride Supplier

There aren't any special rules for the mother of the bride's hair and makeup. Think elegant, understated, timeless, and reflective of your style. As with the bridal party, you'll usually want to get a fresh manicure and pedicure just before the wedding and have your hair and makeup done the day of. Whether you do this with the bridal party is up to you and your child.

If the bride prefers to get ready with just her bridesmaids, for example, don't take it personally. You can invite the mother of the groom or other family members to join you in getting ready, or relish the rare moment of quiet! Just make sure that you do plan to get your hair and makeup done — whether by a professional or trusted friend. Too often, mothers overlook themselves in favour of their children; remember, it's a special day for you too!

Don't forget, this is going to be an emotional day for you too, so make sure that you bring tissues, wear waterproof mascara and bring some make-up with you in case you need to touch it up on the day.

When should you purchase your mother of the bride outfit?

Julie Fitzmaurice Mother of the Bride wedding supplier

You should start searching for your mother of the bride outfit no later than three months before the wedding to allow time for special orders and alterations. You may choose to look in department or speciality stores for your dress, but don't pass over traditional boutiques. Many have options for the mother of the bride and groom, as well!

Where can you get your mother of the bride outfit?

Looking for somewhere to find your perfect mother of the bride outfit? Here we have our top mother of the bride outfitters so you can discover the ideal place near you to find the best mother of the bride outfit for you.

Charisma of Fawley

Charisma of Fawley Mother of the Bride Supplier

Charisma of Fawley is the largest stockist of wedding outfits and occasion wear in Hampshire. They have an excellent reputation for outstanding choice and attention to detail, which will make choosing your outfit a real pleasure whatever the occasion. Charisma of Fawley specialises in wedding outfits for both mothers of the bride and groom in sizes 8 to 28. They also have stylish millinery and fascinators that will add the finishing touch to complement your chosen outfit. The friendly and professional staff will make you feel welcome with as much help as you feel you need. Also, there is a bespoke tailoring service to ensure that your outfit is perfect on the day.

 

Fancy Frocks of Clitheroe

Fancy Frocks of Clitheroe Mother of the Bride

Fancy Frocks of Clitheroe, headed by a mother and daughter team along with carefully hand-picked staff, have collected over 10 years of experience in assisting mothers of the bride and groom to find that all-important outfit. They have carefully sourced a wonderful array of designers from around the world in order for you to select your individual style, leaving you spoilt for choice. Also, they have a fabulous selection of hats, fascinators, shoes, and matching bags. The experienced team offer a one-to-one shopping experience that is fun, pleasurable, and knowledgeable. Fancy Frocks also works closely alongside a highly trained seamstress with over 25 years of experience to attend to any adjustments that may be required.

 

Burr Bridal

Burr Bridal Mother of the Bride

Burr Bridal is a lovely boutique in Cambridge offering designer mother of the bride and groom outfits. When booking your appointment with Burr Bridal, you will meet Kim and her expert team with many years of experience in helping mothers of the bride find their perfect wedding outfits. Clients will be shown to your own fitting area. Once there you will be spoilt for choice with the gorgeous designer collections. You can complete your outfit with the hats, shoes, and bags available in the boutique. There is also a colour dying service so you can be sure that your accessories perfectly match your mother of the bride outfit.

 

Julie Fitzmaurice

Julie Fitzmaurice Mother of the Bride wedding supplier

Julie Fitzmaurice is a luxury ladies' wear boutique in the heart of Harrogate. Specialising in Mother of the bride and groom, Julie Fitzmaurice has a passion for providing a fabulous shopping experience - nothing but the best! At this boutique, you can choose from made-to-measure, bespoke, and ready-to-wear mother of the bride outfits. The styles are hand-cut and designed in exquisite fabrics handmade laces, brocades, velvets, silk prints, and fine wool crepes. The owner, Gini Palm, and her team are passionate about their work and always look forward to creating the perfect mother of the bride outfit for you.

 

The Clothes Shop

The Clothes Shop Mother of the Bride

Specialising in Mother of the Bride and Groom, The Clothes Shop has over 900 hats and fascinators in stock. Their beautiful Mother of the Bride outfits are affordable yet high quality, and can also be customised to fit your vision. If you're looking for an independent shop with realistic prices, then The Clothes Shop is definitely a great option to find an outfit that Mum will adore!

 

Mother of the Bride Brand Partners

Can't find the style you're looking for? Don't worry! With plenty of contemporary and stylish choices from the likes of Oasis, Debenhams, Closet London and Coast, you will be sure to find something that suits any mother of the bride or groom.

To help you shop, we've included links to our third-party brand partners and may earn a commission on your purchases. This helps us to continue to offer our wedding planning tools and services for free to couples.

Oasis

Oasis Mother of the Bride outfits
Oasis Fashion

Oasis' occasion dresses encapsulate all the different types of styles, from playful to classic. With bold colours and unique patterns, you are set for any wedding style and will find the perfect Mother of the Bride look.

Shop their collection

Closet London

Closet London Mother of the Bride
Closet London

Closet London has everything from chic minis to floor-sweeping maxis. You'll be spoilt for choice with finishes like playful polka dot, animal print and bold florals to choose from, alongside pops of colour and muted monochromes. For some extra sparkle, embrace embellished detailing and eye-catching diamanté trims. Our selection of lengths includes on-trend midis and elegant longline silhouettes that will ensure you make a splash!

Start Shopping

Debenhams

Debenhams Mother of the Bride
Debenhams

Dress to impress with Debenham's selection of dresses, including maxis, midis and minis styles for Mother of the Bride duties. Whether you're after a super stylish dress, a chic jumpsuit or a tailored sequin dress, Debenhams will keep you looking, and feeling, amazing. Play with hem lengths silhouettes and details or opt for classic pieces that'll never go out of style.

Take a look

Coast

Coast Mother of the Bride
Coast Fashion

Coast hand-picks mother of the bride dresses to guarantee being second best-dressed – after the bride, of course! Find unusual dresses for summer weddings, flattering dresses with matching jackets in the autumn or winter. They also offer long and tea-length dresses for a more classic look, while brighter hues and prints that will turn heads on the dancefloor.

Browse the collections

Looking for the perfect Mother of the Bride or Groom outfit? Search through our list of Mother of the Bride and Groom suppliers!

Cat Arnott

About the author


Cat Arnott

With a Masters degree in History, Cat is the best person to consult if you need wedding facts and information fast. Her passion for weddings has led to her having a broad and up to date knowledge of trends and traditions and she is here to research on your behalf to find the answer to any wedding related problem.

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