It’s hard work being a mother of the bride (MOB) or mother of the groom (MOG). Not only do they have to managed all the mother of the bride duties involved in helping their stressed offspring organise a wedding, but they also have to find a head turning outfit to wear on the day. After the bride and the bridesmaids, the next fashion focus is the mums! So help yours out with our guide to mums’ outfits!Mother of the bride duties
Every mum worries about what’s appropriate to wear; there’s a fine line between dressing like a granny and the avoid-at-all-counts mutton dressed as lamb look! Colour co-ordination is also something to think about, as you’ll want something that complements the bridesmaids dresses and the overall colour scheme. And is it ever appropriate for mums to wear white? Set out boundaries with your mum/future mother-in-law before you go shopping. And make sure to bring the two mums together for a blether to ensure their outfits plan is suitably different. Although traditionally, the MOB gets to choose her dress before the MOG
Beginning the search
A good rule of thumb is to start the outfit hunt about five or six months before the wedding. If it’s in summer, take your mum shopping in January, and embark on your shopping mission in July for a winter wedding. This might seem like too far in advance, but this is when shops get their new season stock in. Mums outfits aren’t really dictated by fashion either, so you’ll be able to browse through clothes from previous seasons too. And, it pays to note, that clothing in boutiques is often one-of-a-kind, so if you don’t buy something you like when you first see it, it might not be there when you go back for it.The practicalities
On average, mums outfits cost from £250 to £750, so if you’re going to invest in an outfit then it makes sense to get something you can wear again – or at least elements of it. With that in mind, look out for clothes that flatter your mum’s body shape and work with her usual style. On-the-knee and ankle-length skirts are currently on trend, but if she’ll feel more comfortable in a calf-length number, ignore what’s in vogue and go for that. If the fit isn’t quite right – and this might be the case if it’s a Spanish or Italian designer – most shops offer an alteration service.Topping it off
It doesn’t all end there, though – picture a MOB, and no doubt you’ll imagine a lady with amazing headwear. Fascinators have been a popular choice for the past few years and hatinators, which are similar to fascinators but have a larger base, offer a subtle way of updating an outfit. However we’re predicting a major hat resurgence after the beauties that were on show at the royal wedding. Carole Middleton and Camilla Parker Bowles looked chic in theirs, and if you fancy something a bit more eye catching (or eye poking) you could take inspiration from Eugenie and Beatrice! Just don’t tell anyone that we suggested you do it...Got more questions about mother of the bride duties or outfits? Get help from other brides-to-be on the Scottish Wedding Directory Forum
