For any mother of the bride, helping to plan your daughter’s big day can be an extremely stressful time, and for those not involved in making those important wedding decisions, like so many of us now, there is still the difficult decision of what to wear for such a special day. Here is some advice on how to choose the perfect mother of the bride outfit.

Colour Theme

Firstly, it is vital that you know the colour theme of your daughter’s wedding. This will ensure that you coordinate with the rest of the wedding party. However the key is not to match; choose a colour that complements. This will ensure that you stand out as mother of the bride and don’t blend in with the other guests. Remember, never wear white. This colour should be saved purely for the bride, unless she says otherwise.

Cornflower Shift Dress from Jacques Vert

Cornflower Shift Dress from Jacques Vert

If you are stuck for ideas, here are a few key trends for next Spring/Summer:

  1. Blues (anything from the palest sky blue to cornflower or midnight).
  2. Pastel shades.
  3. Florals (a classic Spring/Summer trend that will never go out of style).

Style of Wedding

Once you have decided on colour options, think about the style of the wedding. Is your daughter having a big white wedding, a romantic beach ceremony or a much more relaxed, casual affair? This will influence your choice more than anything as your outfit will need to suit your surroundings. Just because you are the mother of the bride it doesn’t mean you can’t be fashionable, but stick to classic, timeless shapes. It is your daughter’s special day so it is important not to wear something that will look dated in her photos in the years to come.

Budget

Whatever you choose it is likely that your budget will influence your decision. It is tempting to blow everything on the perfect dress, but remember you still need to buy a hat, a pair of shoes and elegant matching accessories. There are some beautiful, affordable mother of the bride outfits available on the high street, including ones you will wear again. Choose an investment piece you can wear for other special occasions, such as the elegant cornflower shift from Jacques Vert pictured, with matching hat, jacket, shoes and clutch. Just change your accessories for your next special day.

The most important advice of all is to wear something comfortable that ensures you can enjoy every moment of your daughter’s big day.