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 (or groom!). 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).
- The tailored editor's pick: Phase Eight Sienna Tux Midi Dress, £229 / $500
- The floral editor's pick: Needle & Thread Wisteria Jacquard Dress, £395 / $620
- The embellished editor's pick: Self-Portrait Embellished Cocktail Dress, £450 / $780
- The silk editor's pick: Reformation Lilibeth Silk Dress, £328 / $328
- The draped editor's pick: Reiss Dorota Drape-Detail Midi Dress, £240 / $430
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 they must not outshine the bride!"
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.
© WireImage"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 very 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 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."
Phase Eight Sienna Tux Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Phase Eight has a beautiful Mother of the Bride collection, and with its pastel hue and sleek silhouette, I think the Sienna Tux dress is so Carole Middleton.
Falling to a midi length, it features an extended V neckline to highlight your décolletage, three-quarter length sleeves, and an elegant row of buttons down the front.
Needle & Thread Wisteria Jacquard Dress
Editor's Note:
Romantic ruffles, sparkling embellishments in pastel shades and gorgeous florals are all on offer in Needle & Thread's Mother of the Bride edit.
I love this floral jacquard dress from the new collection. It has a softly draped relaxed silhouette which can be cinched at the waist with the detachable fabric belt, and long voluminous sleeves.
Reiss Dorota Drape-Detail Sleeveless Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Royal-favourite Reiss is another brand that never fails when it comes to sophisticated occasionwear.
Exuding modern elegance, this satin midi dress is so flattering with its draped detail. The are several similar styles in different colours available.
Self-Portrait Embellished Cocktail Dress
Editor's Note:
A personal favourite for stunning occasionwear is Self-Portrait, and the Princess of Wales is also a big fan of the brand.
Not only does it have the royal seal of approval, this embellished cocktail dress is perfect for the mother of the bride who's looking for something truly special with a bit of sparkle. It would work for all seasons.
Reformation Lilibeth Silk Dress
Editor's Note:
Reformation is a sustainable LA-based label with one of my favourite collections of occasionwear.
This midi dress is a beautiful option that's made from 100% silk and comes in several colours. It features a detachable semi-sheer cape for extra coverage.
SABA Linen Rich Floral Scoop Neck Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
M&S stocks several premium high street brands (as well as their own) with coveted mother of the bride collections.
This beautiful midi dress by Australian label SABA is made from linen and perfect for a wedding in warmer climates, whether that's during a heatwave in the UK or abroad. You'll want to wear this long after the nuptials.
Whistles Pale Blue Tie Back Maxi Dress
Editor's Note:
Whistles' minimal maxi dress in powder blue is both understated and special enough for the occasion. It features feminine details like a tie back, subtle leg slit and figure-skimming silhouette.
Hobbs Grosvenor Shirt Dress
Editor's Note:
Hobbs is a popular shopping destination when it comes to formal attire and also has its own Mother of the Bride edit.
If the bride is happy for you to wear a light colour, this floral print dress with sheer detail is a beautiful option. It's made from super soft and breathable Lycocell and is cut in a timeless fit-and-flare shape.
Boden Bow Detail Shirt 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 dress that shows minimal skin in a beautiful print, I love this bow detail floral dress. The top-rated piece gets glowing reviews for its quality crease-free fabric and flattering cut.
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.
