SHOP NOW
SHOP FLORAL DRESSES
SHOP FLAT SHOES
SHOP OCCASION SHOES
SHOP BAGS
SHOP ALL ACCESSORIES
SHOP WEDDING GUEST DRESSES
SHOP MOTHER OF THE BRIDE
SHOP OCCASION ACCESSORIES
SHOP HOLIDAY DRESSES & JUMPSUITS
THE LINEN SHOP
SHOP HOLIDAY TOPS
SHOP THE COLLECTION
EXPLORE THE COLLECTION STORY
Wondering what to wear as mother of the bride, but not sure where to start? To help you put together the perfect outfit, we've answered all the big questions below. SHOP MOTHER OF THE BRIDE OUTFITS
Definitely. Before you begin your search, speak to the bride or groom. They may have a theme or colour scheme in mind, which could give you a steer. Helping you to avoid faux pas such as wearing a wedding outfit that distracts from the bride's dress!
Consider when and where the event is taking place. For summer ceremonies abroad or in a marquee, lightweight chiffon or satin, pastel hued and floral print occasion dresses are the order of the day. Whereas winter weddings or formal venues call for jewel tones and more structured wool-silk fabrics.
Traditionally-speaking, the mother of the bride's outfit should complement, rather than match, the bridal party colours. Therefore, it may be best to wait until your daughter has chosen the bridesmaid dresses before you begin your search.
It's best to steer clear of white and black – for obvious reasons. This season, sage green is the colour to be seen in, but if you'd prefer to go down a more traditional route, navy and blush are timelessly elegant.
Watching your daughter or son tie the knot is a momentous occasion, so this really is the time to go all-out. If you opt for a formal dress, pick a figure-flattering silhouette that makes you feel your best. If that's not your style, try the growing trend for trouser suits. Dress coats paired with tailored trousers creates an elegant look that carries well into the evening.
The length of the dress is entirely up to you. Some mothers of the bride and groom choose to wear dresses of similar length to create a more harmonious look.
To make sure you look put together in all scenarios, factor in layers from the start. Whether it's a jacket to go with your mother of the bride outfit or a coordinating pashmina scarf – it will complete your look perfectly and ensure you stay comfortable, whatever the weather.
While hats and fascinators are traditional, practicality is the foremost consideration. Your day will involve a lot of embracing, so if you do wear one, something with a small brim is best. For relaxed affairs and evening ceremonies, beautifully styled hair and well-chosen earrings may be all you need.
With shoes, being comfortable without sacrificing elegance is key. Block heel and wedge sandals offer stability on grass or sand, while court shoes and slingback heels look chic in city settings. Whichever you choose, keep the heel height below 3 inches to stay upright all day. Lastly, pair with a matching clutch bag, roomy enough to hold your camera phone and lipstick.
Whether you're opting for a traditional look or something more contemporary, deciding what to wear as the mother of the bride is easy when you've got all the answers to the key questions.
RSVP'd yes? Whether you're attending as the mother of the bride or groom, bridesmaid or guest, our style guide will help you find the perfect outfit.
Wedding in the diary? Whether you're the mother of the bride or groom, guest or bridesmaid, our style guide will help you find the perfect outfit.