Once the bride has chosen her wedding dress, and the bridesmaid's theme has been confirmed, the next most important outfit is undoubtedly the mother of the bride's dress. If this is you, we imagine you're looking for something classy and elegant, and definitely not frumpy.
Traditionally, it has been said that the mother of the bride's outfit should complement the bridal party, and follow the same colour scheme. However, these days many brides are more relaxed, giving their mum free reign to choose what they feel best in (although it is best to check in with her just in case).
With so much choice and for such a special day, it can become an overwhelming decision, so we got in touch with leading wedding and events planner Lavinia Stewart-Brown.
“There is no specific rule for the mother of the bride, it is dependent on the couple's dress code," Lavinia told us. "However, I will caveat that, one rule is that they must not outshine the bride!"
- The floral editor's pick: Phase Eight Liana Floral Maxi Dress, £329 / $725
- The metallic editor's pick: Hobbs Cate V Neck Maxi Dress, £279 / $625
- The polka dot editor's pick: Rixo Emory Dress, £545 / $805
- The embellished editor's pick: Self Portrait Sequinned Floral Tweed Midi Dress, £560 / $750
- The navy editor's pick: Boden Tulle Ruffle Maxi Dress, £159 / $249
- The pink editor's pick: Karen Millen Dress, £119
What is the mother of the bride supposed to wear?
Traditionally, the mother of the bride’s outfit for a wedding is meant to be modest and co-ordinate with the bridal party. Most commonly, she will wear a mid-length dress and usually a full-length or ¾ length sleeve design, although capped sleeves are also popular.
In more recent years, mothers of the bride may prefer to be a little more modern in a trouser suit or a jumpsuit, which can also offer more coverage. The options are endless, but it's important to dress appropriately for the venue, and primarily, to feel comfortable and confident.
"When picking an outfit, maybe work with the bride to find something that is complimentary and fitting with the venue," says Lavinia. "For example, a destination wedding may have a more laid-back feel to match the country's climate. However, a UK wedding may be more formal. I wanted my own mum to go for something really special so everyone knew she was one of the most important guests."
Some mums may choose to add a blazer to their outfit, or a shawl if the wedding is in a religious setting, as well as a hat or a fascinator.
What is the most popular colour for the mother of the bride's dress?
The unspoken rule when it comes to weddings is not to wear white like the bride. Some brides wish for the entire bridal party, including the mother of the bride, to co-ordinate and follow the same colour scheme. Champagne hues, blush pinks and other pastel hues tend to be favourable.
Lavinia says: "This is definitely seasonal dependent. In the last year I saw a lot of powder blues during the summer months. People often choose a pastel colour so this is a good place to start for a summer or spring wedding. For a winter or autumn wedding, you can play around with a richer colour pallet - the dark and dramatic backdrops work well with this!
"For a destination wedding, I think there is a need to consider which colours will be most comfortable in the sunshine - I maybe wouldn’t opt for a dark or rich colour."
Does the mother of the bride have to wear a hat?
In short, no, the mother of the bride does not have to wear a hat. Some who wish to stick with tradition may choose to wear a hat or opt for a fascinator for a more low-key alternative, but it's not essential.
“The mother of the bride wearing a hat is a time-honoured tradition and not a necessity in my opinion," says Lavinia. "I think you can make the judgement based on the overall feel of the wedding - for a very traditional wedding, hats are more likely to be worn. For something more laid back, I think it is down to personal preference. There is no simple yes or no I am afraid!”
What shouldn't the mother of the bride wear?
Ever the question. The mother of the bride plays a key role in being a huge support for the bride, groom, and father of the bride, but it is traditionally frowned upon if any guest wears white to a wedding. It's also best to avoid dressing in any way that will outshine the bride, from revealing cuts to bold designs.
Some say it's advisable to not buy your dress too early in case it doesn’t fit on the day, and of course don't leave it until the last minute. It's also important to get the footwear right, as you will likely be on your feet for hours. Opt against stiletto heels and in favour of a chunkier heel, or a wedge, if you want to add a little height.
What are the best brands for mother of the bride dresses?
Lavinia says: “Depending on how much you are looking to spend, lots of high street stores have some great options for mother of the bride - Whistles and Reiss are great options and have a luxurious feeling without such a high price tag. For something a bit more mid-market, I would say Ralph Lauren is a great place to look. For something higher budget, Chanel carries a lot of amazing and classic styles. I have also worked a lot with the brand Caroline Castigliano who has a stunning evening and mother of the bride range."
How we chose the best mother of the bride dresses
- Trusted brands: We've only included dresses from brands the HELLO! shopping team know and love in this edit. We've worn pieces from their collections on multiple occasions.
- Variety: Whether you're looking for a maxi or midi length, something sleek or statement, sleeveless or long-sleeved, we've found a style to suit you.
- Price: We've included dresses suitable for a range of budgets, from £560 pieces by Self-Portrait to more affordable £119 options from Karen Millen.
1/9
Hobbs Cate V Neck Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
Hobbs is a popular shopping destination when it comes to formal attire and has its own Mother of the Bride edit.
This midi dress in midnight navy has a very flattering cut and a beautiful lustrous finish that's perfect for a winter wedding. Fully lined through the skirt and bodice, it also features long blouson sleeves and even has pockets.
2/9
Phase Eight Liana Floral Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
Phase Eight has a beautiful Mother of the Bride collection, and the British brand has dropped lots of new pieces for autum/winter.
This floral maxi comes in monochrome shades with a flattering wrap cut and feminine ruffle sleeves. Reviews say it's elegant and beautifully made.
3/9
Boden Tulle Ruffle Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
Boden stocks a wide range of dresses, which means there are numerous coveted styles, sizes, cuts and colours to choose from.
For those looking for a fun option that's still appropriate, this polka dot tulle dress is ideal. Featuring sheer sleeves and romantic ruffles, the navy shade will complement any skin tone, while the timeless fit-and-flare shape ensures it's universally flattering.
4/9
Reiss Satin Cape Dress
Editor's Note:
Reiss is a fail-safe option when it comes to beautiful occasionwear. Favoured by the likes of Princess Kate, Princess Beatrice and Meghan Markle, the brand is a firm royal favourite.
If the bride is happy for you to wear a neutral colour, I think this champagne satin dress with its beautiful cape neckline and tucked waist is perfection.
5/9
Rixo Emory Silk Gown
Editor's Note:
If printed designs are your style, head to Rixo where you'll find plenty in their Mother of the Bride edit.
Made from luxurious silk and adorned with trending polka dots, the Emory dress also has a maxi silhouette with a full skirt and long blouson sleeves.
6/9
Self-Portrait Self Portrait Sequinned Floral Tweed Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
One personal favourite for stunning occasionwear is Self-Portrait, and none other than Princess Kate is also a big fan of the brand.
Not only does it have the royal seal of approval, this embellished tweed dress exudes elegance and vintage-inspired glamour. It features a belted waist and floral sequins.
7/9
Karen Millen Belted Crepe Dress
Editor's note
Another brand with its own Mother of the Bride edit, Karen Millen has you covered no matter what your style preference – we're talking everything from Bardot necklines, A-line styles, bright colours and more.
With its tux style silhouette, V-neckline and waist belt, this structured midi dress is perfect for those looking for a sleek and sophisticated mother of the bride dress.
8/9
Monsoon Celeste Embellished Bow Velvet Midi Dress
Editor's note
Monsoon is another of our go-tos when it comes to occasionwear, including weddings, which they have a category for customers to shop curated items.
If you're looking for a velvet piece for a winter wedding, the bestselling Celeste dress gets five-star reviews thanks to its puff sleeves, sparkly embellishments around the neckline and bodice, and trio of bows through the front.
9/9
Needle & Thread Blossom Lace Ankle Gown
Editor's Note:
If you're looking for something really special, head to Needle & Thread's Mother of the Bride edit. Romantic ruffles and eye-catching embellishments in pastel pinks, bright reds and muted blues are all on offer for the glamorous mums out there.
If you want something a little bit statement, I love the winter-ready red hue, tulle and tonal embroidery of the Blossom gown.
Meet the expert
As the founder of Lavinia Stewart-Brown Events, Lavinia is one of the UK’s most sought-after wedding and events planners. With a wealth of expertise in the curation and management of spectacular events, Lavinia's career to date has ranged from private parties and intimate and full-scale weddings to corporate events, award ceremonies and much more! Having started her career in the media industry, Lavinia grew her expertise and experience by putting herself at the forefront of a collection of globally prestigious and unforgettable celebrations. As an expert in her field, Lavinia is well-versed in various topics, from curating intimate dinner parties and hosting kids' parties to tips on wedding planning and tablescaping.
