July 16, 2021

What Should The Mother Of The Bride Wear? Our Top 5 Tips!

As designers and makers of mother of the bride outfits, we get asked this question a lot.

And whether you are the mother of the bride or groom (or someone else arranging the outfits), the most important thing we say is "Choose the design and style that's right for you!".

Luckily times have changed for mothers of the bride, and matronly dresses and pastel colours are passé. This updated etiquette means you’re free to create impact and express yourself with a style that reflects your personality.

There are still a few 'rules' you might want to follow, such as being guided by the bride’s chosen style and colours. Something which is complementary would create a better look for the wedding pics. Also, an obvious point to state, but you'll want to make sure you've considered the type of wedding (beach vs formal black tie), time of year and venue (stately home vs tipi tent).

And it goes without saying that you shouldn't wear the same colour as the bride!

Apart from that, the world is your oyster. We have listed our top 5 recommendations for what you might want to consider when making your choice. Remember, it's not just the couple's special day, but also one that you're going to cherish forever. And as a VIP on the day, you will want to feel great - inside and out.

To help us showcase some mothers of the bride (and groom) outfits, we have partnered with Stephen Pike from Pike Photography based in Hertfordshire. Stephen is a well-known local wedding photographer, who likes to capture the essence of a wedding through his natural yet dramatic wedding photography and has taken countless photos of weddings in and around St Albans (including the beautiful St Albans Cathedral!).

1) Be Yourself!

Our first tip is to dress in what makes you feel great - wear an outfit that suits your style, body shape and most importantly your personality. This will help you feel comfortable and look back on the wedding photos in years to come, seeing someone who looks like you rather than a stranger.

2) Stand Out

Even though it's the bride and groom's special day, you are still an extremely important part of the wedding party. You will appear in all the important wedding photos - with the bride, new family members and group shots. You will be meeting and greeting guests, sitting at the top table - and you might even give a speech! Whatever the circumstance, you want to fit in but also make a bit of a statement. Use your outfit and accessories to do so.

3) Complement the Bride

We have already discussed this, but looking part of the wedding party and more importantly complementing the bride is a sure-fire way to look fabulous. Get a fabric swatch from the various outfits and take it into your chosen shop. Or bring it into our Atelier in St Albans, if you're considering having your outfit custom-made. We have a wide selection of fabrics to choose from, and can advise on the best match in terms of fabric, the finer details (e.g. lace trims or zips) as well as the accessories to go with your outfit.

4) Rock Your Outfit

This is a really important one, as you CAN look stylish and feel comfortable! Comfortable in your own skin by rocking your own style, but also physically. Wear something that you can sit and stand in, as well as have a good ole boogie in. It's a long day, and you want to feel good all day. And weddings are a time to celebrate and let your hair down, so wear something that looks great and feels even better!

5) Plan Ahead

This part is often overlooked but critical if you want finding the perfect outfit to be an enjoyable experience. And it should be! Whether you're having it made for you or buying something off the shelf, allow 3-6 months as a minimum especially if you need a number of fittings or alterations.

Finally, the MOST important thing to remember is to enjoy the process and have fun on the day! It's such a beautiful and special occasion.

If you would like to opt for something unique and designed just for you, we can help. A tailormade piece might cost a bit more than a mass-produced outfit but will make you look and feel spectacular! It can also become a timeless piece in your wardrobe - ready to dazzle on other special occasions. Book a free consultation if you'd like to find out more.

All images taken by Pike Photography