Mother of the bride outfits

Your daughter is getting hitched and, as mother of the bride, you want to look the part. While the ceremony and the speeches and the clinking of champagne glasses are all part and parcel of a fabulous day, there's always the age-old question, "But what on earth do I wear?" Luckily, we've done the hard work for you. Here are the most flattering mother of the bride outfits for all sizes featuring fancy frocks, comfy footwear and a light coat - because, let's face it, we're still in the UK.

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4 top tips for choosing a mother of the bride outfit

When it comes to the style of your mother of the bride outfit, the world is your oyster. There are, however, a few rules to follow in terms of colour and comfort so that you don't <shock horror> upstage the bride.

1. Try to match the bridal party colour scheme

Choose a lighter or darker shade to complement what the bride, groom and bridesmaids are wearing. Who doesn't love matching colours? 

2. Make sure your outfit is comfortable

There's nothing worse than missing out on the delicious wedding breakfast because your waistband doesn't have a millimetre left to spare. Go for a dress with a stretch waist or an outfit that has a bit of breathing room. 

3. Choose shoes wisely

High heels might look great, but if they're likely to leave you limping, then it's best to stick with a kitten heel or similar. Heels aren't a prerequiste when it comes to weddings, so the golden rule is to wear what you feel comfortable in.

4. Check what the mother of the groom is wearing

Avoid any awkwardness by making sure that your outfit doesn't clash with the mother of the groom. Go that extra mile and double check outfit plans well in advance, but don't worry too much about colour - it might be a good idea to coordinate so that you are both wearing complementary hues.

How to coordinate colours

If you want to branch out a bit and coordinate well with the bridal party without matching their colour scheme exactly, here are a few options:

Petite outfits

For shorter women, it's often tricky to find an outfit that fits like a glove from head to toe, but the key is knowing which styles to go for. When it comes to a flattering petite mother of the bride outfit, choose an empire line dress with a higher waistline to make your legs look longer, or a V-neck shape to give the illusion of height. Pair with a gorgeous fascinator (don't be afraid to stand out as mother of the bride), a shawl or a three-quarter-length shrug and you're good to go.

We love this blush sequin lace dress from JD Williams for its flattering shape and crêpe layered skirt. Monsoon are also the ideal brand for beautiful occasion dresses and their navy dress with lace detailing, including sleeves, is the epitomy of elegance. Pair with low-heeled bow slingbacks for a stunning mother of the bride outfit. 

Left: Nightingales blush sequin lace dress, £130, JD Williams; Mocha comb fascinator, £25, JD Williams; Glitter kitten heel sandals, £47, Debenhams. 

Right: Navy lace knee-length dress, £99, Monsoon; Ivory scarf, £39, Coast; Navy slingback court shoes, £65, John Lewis. 

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Plus size outfits

These days, there are more and more options for plus size women, be it dresses, tops, trousers and everything in between. When it comes to dressing for a wedding, it's important to wear what you feel comfortable in. If dresses aren't your thing, opt for a blouse and trousers - and don't forget your staple wedding accessories, like a fascinator or a hat, to finish the outfit off.

Brands like Bonmarché and Marisota are our go-tos when it comes to plus size clothing, the latter of which offer clothes up to a size 32! We're particularly fond of their split sleeve blouse (below). Plus, don't forget a light jacket if the weather isn't on your side. 

Left: Split sleeve blouse, £46, Marisota; Mid-grey crêpe trousers, £71.20, Jacques Vert; Amedee fascinator, £49, Coast. 

Right: Printed double layer dress, £40, Bonmarché; Lace dress coat, £45, Bonmarché.  

Tall outfits

Tall is beautiful, so celebrate your height with stylish clothing that makes you look well-proportioned. First things first, know your measurements and what works best for your body shape. Secondly, shop tall brands and garments tailored to taller women. And don't shy away from wearing heels, especially if you have larger feet. You might just find it helps further with proportions.

Jumpsuits and maxi dresses are particularly flattering on tall women. This Phase Eight jumpsuit features bootleg trousers that create a slim silhouette and might just draw a compliment or two from other wedding guests. Maxi dresses can be tricky to buy if you're tall - the phrase maxi might not be that accurate when you find the hem grazing your calfs rather than your ankles - which is why we love this floral maxi dress from Coast; its high-low skirt will mean you won't have to concern yourself too much with length. 

Left: Phase Eight grey jumpsuit, £160, John Lewis; Roland Cartier diamante clasp clutch bag, £40, House of Fraser; Silver slingbacks, £115, Debenhams.

Right: Floral maxi dress, £189, Coast; Ivory bow hat, £55, John Lewis; Wide fit suede kitten heel sandals, £45, M&S.  

Curvy outfits

The most important fashion tip for curvy women is to accentuate your best feature; your curves! Choose an outfit that hugs at the waist in a pleasing way to define your shape - stretchy materials will usually do just that and provide a bit of give at the same time. V-neck dresses are also a winner here, particularly if you're bustier up top, as are three-quarter-length sleeves if you want to cover your arms and not have to grapple with long sleeves. Both will ensure you look sophiscated and remain comfortable on your daughter's big day!

Our favourite style is the Gina Bacconi crimson lace dress for its ruched waistline and beautiful lace sleeves. We also love this floral shift dress from Bonmarché for its stretch fabric that will hug, but perfectly define, your curves.  

Left: Gina Bacconi crimson lace dress, £190, John Lewis; Red pointed spot swoop fascinator, £45, Debenhams; Pointed toe court shoes, £19.50, M&S. 

Right: Floral stretch shift dress, £35, Bonmarché; Rose crop jacket, £79, Debenhams; Bow satin clutch bag, £9, Monsoon. 

Prices correct as of 26/03/18

Other things you might like:

Petite clothing for women over 60

Wedding guest outfits

Images: Shutterstock