Outfit Ideas and Dresses for the Mother of the Bride

It’s her big day, but you’ll want to feel confident and comfortable too. Choose a dress or separates that sit effortlessly with the wedding palette

Content editor

Jayne Cherrington-Cook

A woman wears a lilac jumpsuit with a fascinator and high heels

What should you wear as mother of the bride?

It’s your daughter’s big day, so let her be your sartorial guide. It’s traditional for the mother of the bride to dress in a similar palette to the bridesmaids but don’t match them too closely; simply accessorise within the palette instead.

As a courtesy, it’s also a good idea to coordinate with the mother of the groom so that you don’t clash, or worse, turn up wearing the same wedding outfit.

Whatever the season, delicate fabrics such as chiffon, lace and silk are always a safe bet for the mother of the bride. For summer weddings, you can’t go wrong with a floral dress. The length should also reflect the event's timing; tea or floor-length for evening ceremonies, knee-length for daytime celebrations. Add a fascinator and heels and you’re good to go. And if dresses aren’t your thing, a lace jumpsuit is an equally elegant option.

When it comes to occasionwear, brands such as Ghost, Phase Eight and Monsoon have you covered.

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A woman wears a silk floral dress by Hobbs for petite mother of the brides

Petite mother-of-the-bride outfit ideas

The ideal petite mother of the bride outfit is all about long, elegant lines. Streamlined shapes, like column or fit and flare dresses that fall just below the knee, are your best friends. Start your search by browsing our dresses that are available in petite sizes. Clever details like pleating or ruching add a touch of elegance, while V-necks or a linear pattern, as seen on this Hobbs dress, create a vertical line that attracts the eye.

Don't be afraid of rich colours like navy or plum – a monochromatic look elongates beautifully – but stay away from too many embellishments. A bit of lace or subtle beading is lovely but avoid anything too bulky. Keep accessories in proportion: a medium clutch and two-to-three-inch heels in a similar shade to your dress are ideal. Consider wedge sandals for lawn receptions.

And the most important tip for petite mother of the bride outfits? Tailoring. A figure-flattering dress or suit is worth its weight in gold, while a fitted jacket is the ideal finishing touch to any mother-of-the-bride look. Don’t be afraid to have your outfit professionally altered so it fits you perfectly.

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Mother-of-the-bride suits and separates

For mothers-of-the-brides seeking a chic and comfortable alternative to a traditional dress, trouser suits or tailored separates offer a contemporary yet chic look perfect for this special occasion.

Trouser suits for the mother of the bride come in a variety of styles: consider one in a luxurious fabric like silk or crepe. While a neutral shade – such as this beige oversized blazer – will earn its keep long after their big day, don’t be afraid to pick something with a subtle wash of colour. This pink Ted Baker suit is the perfect occasion-ready alternative. Finish it off with comfortable heels (for all that dancing) and a large bow fascinator.

The beauty of choosing a two-piece mother-of-the-bride outfit is its practicality; the pieces can be styled separately, making it a versatile investment that extends beyond the wedding day.

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Stylish mother-of-the-bride accessories