WHAT TO WEAR AS THE MOTHER OF THE BRIDE

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

Hobbs model wears a sage green mother of the bride outfit including matching dress, jacket and clutch bag.

1. SHOULD I CONSULT THE COUPLE?

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!

2. WHICH COLOURS AND FABRICS SHOULD I WEAR?

Hobbs model wears a pink floral midi dress with a matching clutch bag.

2. WHICH COLOURS AND FABRICS SHOULD I WEAR?

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.

3. SHOULD THE MOTHER OF THE BRIDE WEAR THE SAME COLOUR AS THE BRIDESMAIDS?

Hobbs model walks through the Riba building wearing a sage green mother of the bride outfit including matching dress, jacket, fascinator and clutch bag.

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.

4. WHAT IS THE MOST POPULAR COLOUR FOR MOTHER OF THE BRIDE DRESSES?

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.

5. SHOULD THE MOTHER OF THE BRIDE WEAR A FORMAL DRESS?

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.

A green floral silk dress hangs on large brass and glass doors.

6. DOES THE MOTHER OF THE BRIDE HAVE TO WEAR A LONG DRESS?

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.

7. IS IT IMPORTANT TO WEAR A MATCHING JACKET?

Hobbs model wears a pink floral dress with a matching fascinator and jacket.

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.

8. SHOULD THE MOTHER OF THE BRIDE WEAR A HAT OR FASCINATOR?

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.

Hobbs clutch bags sit atop a tablescape.

9. WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING ACCESSORIES?

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.