Finding the perfect look for 2020’s Mother of the Bride
New year, new decade, but one thing that will never change is the importance of getting your Mother of the Bride outfit right. The pressure of being photographed from every angle by the official wedding photographer and guests with mobile phone only adds to the anxiety. I went to two weddings last year where the celebrant requested no one should post anything on social media for 48 hours; and another where guests were requested not to take photos during the ceremony as this would have spoilt the official photos.
In the past, Mother of the Bride outfits were somewhat frumpy. Happily this is no longer the case! Today’s mums understand what works for them and have the confidence to hone their individual style.
Here are my top tips to finding your perfect Mother of Bride outfit:
1. First talk to your daughter about her bridal style. Take into account whether the wedding is formal in a church, relaxed in the countryside or on a far-away beach.
What colour is she wearing – coloured wedding dresses are predicted for 2020 in shades of lemon, pink, blue… Also take note of what colour will the bridesmaids be wearing and the flowers be. Only once you have done this research can you start looking for your outfit.
2. Don’t restrict your search to Mother of the Bride boutiques, look for unusual independent boutiques. You might consider having a couture outfit made which will give you the freedom to choose style and fabric – and a guarantee none of your guests will be wearing the same.
3. You don’t have to match the bridal party but choose a colour that blends in with the palette. Be sure to blend into the group rather than dominate the photos – and leave the focus on your daughter.
4. Choose something you feel comfortable wearing. Recently I made a jump suit for one of my Mother of the Bride clients which for her ticked all the boxes: style, comfort and flattering for her body shape.
5. A sleeve is a pre-requisite for most Mother of the Brides as this is more flattering for the top of the arms. If you are going to wear a jacket for the daytime with the intention of removing it for the evening party choose a dress with a sleeve. It doesn’t have to be a heavy sleeve – a lace, tulle, crepe or chiffon sleeve will do the trick.
6. Think sophistication, no low neckline with too much cleavage and or a short skirt, it is your daughter’s day.
7. If you decide on a simple outfit add your individual style statement with accessories. Quirky or colourful shoes and bag, or a statement hat or fascinator. This is also a way of adding another colour to a plain colour outfit.
8. When looking take your time, don’t ask too many opinions and keep an open mind. Your ideal outfit will be out there and if you just can’t find the right outfit a couture designer will create it for you. Stay positive, allow plenty of time and don’t let it become a chore.
9. If you lose weight you can have a readymade outfit altered closer to the wedding. Or if you are having a couture outfit made ask your designer to delay the final fittings – this is a normal request and something I do for a lot of my clients.
If you would like any advice you are welcome to email me [email protected] for a free no obligation consultation over the phone or in person.
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