The mother of the bride (or groom!) plays a starring role on the wedding day, and her outfit should feel just as special. If you’re celebrating this spring or summer, chances are you’re already searching for a look that feels elegant, flattering and polished, but 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 whatever 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 they must not outshine the bride!"
- The tailored editor's pick: Phase Eight Sienna Tux Midi Dress, £183 / $400
- The floral editor's pick: Rixo Katie Midi Dress, £275 / $435
- The royal-approved editor's pick: Self-Portrait Floral Guipure Lace Midi Dress, £450 / $425
- The satin editor's pick: Victoria Beckham Bela Midi Dress, £850 / $1,290
- The navy editor's pick: Hobbs Lois Floral Embroidered Dress, £239 / $401
- The embellished editor's pick: Monsoon Lydia Shimmer Jacquard Midi Dress, £180 / $244
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 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 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: I've only included dresses from brands the Best Quality Designer Handbag 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 fluid, and subtle or more statement, we've found a style to suit you.
- Price: I've included dresses suitable for a range of budgets, from £850 pieces by Victoria Beckham to more affordable £118 options from Karen Millen.
1/11
Phase Eight Sienna Tux Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Phase Eight has a beautiful Mother of the Bride collection, and the British brand has just dropped lots of new pieces for spring.
With its pastel hue and sleek silhouette, I think the Sienna Tux dress is very Carole Middleton. Falling to a midi length, it features an extended V neckline to highlight your decolletage, three-quarter length sleeves, and an elegant row of buttons down the front.
2/11
Hobbs Floral Embroidered 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.
For those looking for a luxe option in a darker colour, the Lois dress is ideal. Adorned with elegant embroidery, the navy shade will complement any skin tone, while the timeless fit-and-flare shape and sheer sleeves ensure it's universally flattering.
3/11
Self-Portrait Floral Guipure Lace Midi 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 luxurious guipure lace dress exudes elegance and vintage-inspired glamour. It features a polo-inspired collar and a subtly flared skirt.
4/11
Reiss Lyra Floral-Print Belted Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Royal-favourite Reiss is another brand that never fails when it comes to sophisticated occasionwear.
Exuding modern elegance, this midi dress features a delicate wildflower print and a flattering belted waist. Its ethereal aesthetic and chic silhouette make it a beautiful choice for any garden wedding.
5/11
Needle & Thread Blossom Camille's Garden Louisa Chiffon 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 sparkling embellishments in pastel shades are all on offer for the glamorous mums out there.
I love this floral gown from the new collection. Cut from lightweight chiffon, it features short sleeves, a flattering V-neckline and is adorned with a vintage-style watercolour print.
6/11
Rixo Katie Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
If printed designs are your style, head to Rixo where you're spoilt for choice with their Mother of the Bride edit.
Made from lightweight crepe de chine and adorned with delicate florals, the Katie dress is stunning for a spring or summer wedding. It's bra-friendly and features a split skirt for easy movement.
7/11
Boden Irene Occasion 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 statement print, I love this puff sleeve piece, which perfectly strikes the balance between formal and playful. It's made from a linen blend so it's lightweight and comfortable.
8/11
Ted Baker Floral Halter Neck Midi Column 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 Ted Baker number is both glamorous and understated - perfect for a wedding. Falling to a midi length, it's cut with a column silhouette and a chic halterneck.
9/11
Victoria Beckham Bela Midi Dress
Editor's Note:
Victoria Beckham wears her own designs to high profile weddings, proving they are one of the most stylish options on the market.
If the bride is happy for you to wear a neutral colour, I think VB's iconic Bela dress in glaciar blue is a beautiful option. It's figure skimming with very flattering ruching at the waist - and you'll definitely wear it again.
10/11
Karen Millen Ombre Floral Georgette Draped Maxi 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 prints and more.
With its ombre floral print, elegant draped detail across the bodice and wrapped waist, this pleated midi dress is perfect for those looking for a pretty and flattering mother of the bride dress.
11/11
Monsoon Lydia Shimmer Jacquard Midi Dress
Editor's note
Monsoon is another 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 something with a bit of sparkle, the subtly embellished design of the new Lydia dress is perfect. The midi length piece has very flattering wispy sleeves and a handkerchief hem.
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.
