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Mother of the groom outfits
Nothing rings in the new year like the announcement of a wedding engagement, especially if it is that of your son. If you're lucky enough to be the mother of a groom-to-be, then you're probably already wondering what you should wear. Would you prefer a classic fail-safe or is standing out from the crowd in something more unusual your thing? Either way, we've put together this style guide, which considers all shapes and sizes, to help you decide...
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Petite
Gone are the days when it was impossible to find a shop that catered to petite women! Thankfully, most brands now have sizeable selections, meaning you won't have trouble finding that perfect mother of the groom frock. Look for skirts that sit higher on the waist, creating the illusion of longer legs, and add a cropped jacket or top to enhance the shape of your upper body. Oh, and you musn't forget to wear a heel, even if it's just a two-inch kitten heel, the little boost will work wonders. Colour-wise, avoid darker shades as they'll eat you up, and instead get adventurous with your colour palette: dazzle in silver or make a real impact in cheery yellow.
Left: Silver lace-detail two-piece, £165, JD Williams; Fascinator, £19, Coast; Rainbow club amber bridal platform peep-toe court shoes, ivory satin, £79, John Lewis.
Right: Roman originals - yellow chiffon scuba dress, £35, Debenhams; Pure collection cashmere shrug, soft white, £99, John Lewis; Yellow suede slingbacks, £66, Office.
Plus-size
When you're stumped for ideas while shopping it's often easier just to grab something old and familiar from your wardrobe at home, but, we say, go outside of your comfort zone, especially for your son's big day! Firstly, we must share with you a secret: it's a myth that dark baggy clothes flatter your plus-size figure. If anything, they do the opposite! The key is in the fit. Avoid highlighting lumps and bumps with flesh-grabbing or bulky materials, and opt for structured garments which have some stretch to them. Look out for wrap dresses and ruching detail as these designs work to flatter your figure and hide a multitude of sins. Also, don't shy away from prints and colour. Big, bold prints are favourable to small, and colour blocking - particularly monochrome - can give the illusion of a leaner silhouette.
Left: Ottoline tapework dress, £199, Studio 8, Gabor acton point toe low heeled court shoes, Pacific, £95, John Lewis, Black stitched crin floral fascinator, £22.50, Debenhams.
Right: Elfie embroidered dress, £160, Studio 8, Louise jacket, £110, Studio 8, Flower trim shoe, £49, Jaques vert.
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Tall
For the more statuesque females of this world, clothes shopping is a minefield at the best of times, especially when you're trying to find the million-dollar outfit to watch your son get married in, but fret not, we're here to help. As advocates of celebrating all shapes and sizes, we say emphasise those long legs of yours in slim leg trousers, adding that extra va va voom in a bold print top and statement hat. Don't feel the need to shun longer garments, as long as they have clever detailing - frilly cuffs to break up the length or tapering to create curves - you'll look well-proportioned and ever so elegant. Shoe-wise, avoid anything too chunky, and if you want to wear a heel, go for it!
Left: Tall black tie waist tapered trousers, £19, New Look, Ivory spot frill sleeve shell top, £18, JD Williams, Joanna Hope occasion hat, £34.50, JD Williams.
Right: Nightingales beaded cape dress, £125, JD Williams, Occasion hat, £55, JD Williams, Sarah clutch, navy, £99, Hobbs.
Curvy
We know of a few tips and tricks to help you dress your gorgeously curvy frame, number one being to 'wear your size'. Buying garments too small or too big is a common rookie error. The last thing you want is to turn up to your son's nuptials in a super slack skirt or shrunken dress! Choose fabrics that hug your figure rather than smother it; tie waists or wrap detailing can work a dream. We recommend wearing pastel colours as they will flatter your shape, as well as being on-trend and occasion-appropriate. Don't forget the fancy hat, too!
Left: Nightgales Cornelli detail dress, £108, JD Williams, Grace court, £139, Hobbs, Debut - navy organza fascinator, £25, Debenhams.
Right: Briella wrap woven dress, £139, Phase Eight, Rainbow club gisele wide fit court shoes, ivory, £79, John Lewis, Debut - silver crin trim bow saucer hat, £40, John Lewis.
Images: Shutterstock