
Being a fashion editor comes in handy more than you’d think. I’ve helped friends and family assemble outfits for job interviews, only to be offered the job afterwards. Coincidence? I think not. I’ve sourced sold-out items on resale sites for those desperately seeking them, and I’m always happy to debate more significant investments. Above all else, however, my decade-long experience working in fashion is most valued by brides-to-be and their mothers when it comes to finding not the wedding dress, but the mother-of-the-bride dress.
I’ve been a bridesmaid a handful of times and a guest more often than I can count, and I’m almost always drafted in to help with the search for the perfect mother-of-the-bride outfit. After all, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to finding the perfect wedding ensemble, and most are worried about looking like a cookie-butter MOTB. More often than not, they want to look cool and sophisticated, but not unlike themselves. This means that alongside hunting down the bride’s dress, finding a beautiful mother-of-the-bride dress or outfit for the big day also takes time. It’s a big day for them, too, and all the mothers of the bride I’ve spoken with just want that little reassurance that they’re making the right outfit choice.
So, as well as selecting what I consider to be some very chic MOTB dresses and outfits below, I’ve also listed the style tips I share with any mother-of-the-bride who asks. Spoiler: If it makes you feel fabulous, wear it!
1. Don’t Feel Bound By Tradition

Although dresses are always appealing—they’re what I like to call a one-and-go outfit that requires minimal effort—they’re not the only MOTB outfit option at your disposal. If you prefer trousers, why not consider a chic suit or jumpsuit instead of a dress? If you live in jeans and what to embrace the opportunity to wear a fancy dress for a day, then relish in it! But know there’s more to mother-of-the-bride outfits than dresses. And that’s before we even consider accessories…
Now you should have a better idea of what your dream mother-of-the-bride dress or outfit looks like, scroll on to see my edit of the most stylish pieces for mothers of the brides below.
Shop Truly Beautiful Dresses

This reminds me of the sort of thing Kate Middleton would wear to attend Ascot, which is precisely the look I’d be going for as mother of the bride.

With a built-in cape detail and glittering finish, this is a stunning option for black-tie nuptials.

If you’re not sold on florals, polka dots serve as another chic mother-of-the-bride print option. Look for spots with space between them, however, so as not to blur in the photographs.

Satin is always a good idea, and works year-round depending on the colour you choose.

This pretty open-back dress is so chic, and it also comes in classic navy and white.

If this Norma Kamali dress is good enough for Carrie Bradshaw…

Needle & Thread dresses have the ability to make you feel so special.
Chic Jackets

Bouclé jackets are the epitome of chic.

Excellent on its own or as part of the trouser suit.

A breathtaking accompaniment to a simple block-colour dress.

I’d wear this jacket with jeans post-wedding.

Longline coats look elegant worn with dresses or skirts of the same length underneath.
Shoes to Spend All Day In

Block heels and ankle straps? I can tell you from experience that Loeffler Randall shoes are comfortable.

Thank goodness kitten heels are back, just in time for wedding season.

The ultimate party flats.

Platforms are more comfortable than you think, especially for dancing in. Don’t disregard them.

My rule? Keep heel heights 10 CM or under (unless a platform is involved like the above).
Haute Headpieces

This feels so Jackie O—how chic!

Imagine these woven into an ethereal updo.

If mesh and netting feels too extra for you.

Bring on the drama!

A simple padded headband is proving a popular alternative to fascinators.
Stylish Separates

How elegant.

I like how clean the cut of these trousers are.

A jumpsuit makes for easy styling.

Opt for a plain blouse up top.

And a bold print on the bottom.

A colour-block suit will act as a canvas to more statement accessories.

Again, I like the fuss-free silhouette of these trousers.
Jewellery to Dazzle

Drop earrings and hair-up are the perfect pairing.

Complement your manicured hand with a statement cocktail ring.

Pearls are forever—not just for wedding days.

A fun way to incorporate a different hue into your mother-of-the-bride look.

Love this? Just wait until you see the necklace version.
Elegant Arm-Candy

Such a gorgeous colour.

This is your chance to go all-out. Don’t waste it!

Zara always creates pretty occasion bags on frugal budgets.

This would look fabulous with a plain dress and gold jewellery.

A bag that’ll go with every mother-of-the-bride dress and outfit in my edit.
Next Up, What to Wear to a Wedding: 9 Outfit Ideas That Never Fail to Look Good
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