Gemma Sheppard
The best mother of the groom dresses are something of a sartorial art form. Everyone wants their outfit to be just right, but when it's your son getting married, the pressure can stack up. One of the key wedding party figures, you deserve your moment in the style spotlight, but this must be done without upstaging the bride and other family members.
A mother of the groom outfit, like other guests, is expected to adhere to the general guidance of what to wear to a wedding, and while the most talked about outfit of the day, should, without a doubt, be that of the bride, there is nothing to stop you from looking and feeling great too.
With most weddings lasting upwards of 12 hours, you'll need to ensure that everything from your dress to your shoes is not just fabulous, but comfortable too. As a rule of thumb, it's a good idea to discuss your outfit with both the mother of the bride and the bride-to-be to ensure everyone is on the same page in terms of style direction. You'll want to be careful about not choosing the same colour as the bridesmaids, unless there has been a specific colour scheme for the wedding party dictated by the happy couple. If no colour scheme has been provided, ensure you opt for complementary colours to other key guests to avoid clashing in all the official photographs, so speak to the bride before hitting the shops.
Best mother of the groom dresses and how to style them
Before shopping for your ensemble, make sure key details are finalised, such as the venue and theme of the day. If the wedding is more relaxed, then sequins or a gown may not be appropriate; likewise, if the wedding is a full black tie affair, then a pretty midi dress may not offer enough polish for the evening part of the event. Six months ahead of the wedding is a good time to start searching for that truly special something where your style can shine through.
We've compiled 9 outfit ideas that cover three key types of wedding style to help you put together a great mother of the groom outfit.
1. Best mother of the groom dresses - country house and garden weddings
Whether you're after the best mother of the groom dresses or the best mother of the bride outfits it really does depend on where the day itself is happening. If the couple has opted for a country house or garden wedding, then pretty pastels and the best midi dresses make for great outfit options. Take notes from Royal wedding guests, who wear this style so well. From dress and matching coats to floatier printed frocks, this is a light, feminine aesthetic that works well for high summer, outdoor weddings.
If you're looking for the best mother of the groom dresses for your shape, then there are some easy silhouette tips to follow, apple body shapes can sometimes struggle with finding flattering dresses to hide a tummy. A wrap dress, with a side tie is great for drawing the eye up and to the side, creating a narrower waistline, while a flat front panel will easily skim your shape. If you want to smooth out your silhouette, you may want to invest in some of the best plus size shapewear to help your chosen outfit skim and flatter your curves.
If you have an hourglass body shape or are looking to create the illusion of fuller curves, then a V-neck dress, with a belt will help to draw attention to your waist. A-line or fuller skirts will create width on your bottom half and balance out a fuller bust for well-balanced curves.
Pear-shaped body types are often looking to balance out fuller hips, a wide-legged jumpsuit will skim past wider hips and show off a narrower waistline with its lightly gathered middle. Cap sleeves or puff sleeve heads will add volume to your shoulder area, which will also help to balance out wider hips.
RRP: £179 | Florals are a timeless choice for any wedding guest dress, and this pretty pistachio and pink blossom number ticks a lot of boxes. The floaty sleeve gives gentle arm coverage, while the V-neck and button front draw the eye down the body for a longer silhouette. A waist-cinching belt helps to define your middle, for hourglass curves.
RRP: £169 | A favourite of A-listers and royalty, Sole Bliss is a winner for those with bunions and wider feet. The classic style of these court shoes ensures that they'll be spot on for the big day, but wearable after for other special occasions, or work ensembles. "As a non-heel wearer, the pair I wore from Sole Bliss for my brother's wedding was amazing." Rivkie Baum, digital Fashion editor.
RRP: £69 | Although not every wedding requires a hat, a hairpiece of some description is pretty standard. This easy-to-wear disc fascinator comes on a hairband, making it simple to style and if you so choose, remove after the ceremony. The pale pink hue pulls out the pink of the dress and will work seamlessly with other summer pastel shades.
RRP: £178.55 | The best jumpsuits have become the mainstay of many occasionwear wardrobes, and this gorgeous printed number, with floaty wide legs, could pass as a dress - but with the comfort of trousers. The cross-over neckline is ideal for flattering a bustline, while the side tie helps to create a nipped in waist. The bold print will help you stand out for the right reasons.
RRP: £78 | A statement print needs simple jewellery, and this elegant double-strand necklace is ideal for sitting in a V-neckline. A hit of sparkle is a must for wedding ensembles, but you don't need to go over the top. Looking far more expensive than its price tag, the two different sized stones add directional detail to this piece.
RRP: £95 | Less formal than a tailored jacket, this chic cardigan picks out one of the colours of the print of the jumpsuit to pull your outfit together. For weddings with a large part of the party or ceremony outdoors, an extra layer to deal with temperamental weather is a must.
RRP: £825 | A special occasion demands a special dress. One of the best Australian clothing brands, Zimmermann has Royal and celebrity fans, including Princess Beatrice and the Duchess of Edinburgh, so you'd be in good style company. From the well-placed print to the blouson sleeve and swishy skirt, this is a winner.
RRP: £245 | A heel can certainly make an outfit feel more dressy, but don't feel like you need to slip on a pair of stilettos if heels aren't something you wear regularly. Being comfortable is of key importance and will massively affect your enjoyment of the day. These low block heels give enough of a lift, but still with a sturdy base.
RRP: £260 | Another easy headpiece that can be slipped on for the ceremony and off after family photos, or the reception, this feathered number is a lot of fun. Picking up on the dove grey hues of the dress, this neutral accessory can be repurposed for other seasonal occasions later down the line. A particularly good options for shorter hairstyles.
2. Best mother of the groom dresses - beach wedding
When selecting what to wear to a beach wedding, there are a host of practicalities to consider. While you might usually opt for white and neutral hues for stepping onto the sand, when it comes to a wedding, white is a no-go (unless specifically requested by the bride to wear white). It's also courteous to be wary of pastel hues that look too similar to white and cream. Given that the sun will hopefully be shining down on the big day, look for bright colours that will channel the happy feel of the day.
A beach wedding will have a more relaxed feel than a country house or garden wedding and as you'll be dealing with sand, flat shoes or sandals are certainly recommended. Opt for maxi and midi dresses, or palazzo trousers, teamed with an embellished kaftan to reflect the mood of the occasion. When it comes to hats, depending on what is requested by the couple, you may want to opt for something that offers a little more sun protection, particularly if the wedding is taking place in the midday heat.
A splash of sequins for a sunset beach wedding can be a lovely touch, as the sun should pick up the sparkle, but again, it's important to follow the feel of the day and if intricate beadwork feels too over the top for the setting, it's best to avoid.
RRP: £115 | Coastal weddings demand floaty silhouettes and this midaxi (midi-come-maxi) dress with tiered skirt is gorgeous from dawn til dusk. The high neck and cut-away shoulder design is ideal for tall and athletic figures, creating a lengthened finish.
RRP: £19.99 | If you're looking for some light arm coverage, a sheer jacket or bolero gives exactly what you need, whilst keeping you cool, and importantly still letting the dress shine. This pastel sheer pink design is the perfect match to the sleeveless dress.
RRP: £100 | With hidden cushioning, these flat sandals are sure to keep you comfortable for hours. The strap details will keep them secure on sandy beaches. And if the evening party is on a hard surface, you can always swap to heels.
RRP: £129 | Coastal weddings are often more laidback, and elegant takes on tropical prints can be a fun yet chic option for a statement wedding day look. A simple, but wearable silhouette, the self-tie fabric belt will help to highlight your shape.
RRP: £29.50 | The best sandals are a must for any summer capsule wardrobe and if you've got a beach wedding in the diary then a pair of metallic sandals will ensure you look ready for an occasion without sacrificing on the practicality of walking on sand.
RRP: £55 | Evoke the location of the day with these gorgeous shell-shaped earrings. A pearly-coloured design with crystal stud detailing, these glamorous earrings can be worn for the big day and then popped into your holiday outfit rotation.
RRP: £595 | Super glam, a Grecian-inspired maxi dress, in light summer fabrics, is ideal. As a mother of the groom, you can wear a fancier frock than the rest of the guests, so this full-sleeved number isn't 'too much' given your standing. We love this zingy orange hue for a bold pop of colour.
RRP: £75 | Wide brims are ideal for offering maximum sun protection - something very much needed on the beach. The white ribbon trim, and wide brim offers a sleek and feminine finish. This hat can be re-worn throughout the summer.
RRP: £27.99 | These Zara sandals come in multiple colourways and are a timeless classic. Ideal for slipping on or off for beach ceremonies, these could-be-designer slip-ons are a style that you can wear year after year. Crafted from leather, make sure to protect them from the elements.
3. Mother of groom - black tie wedding
A black-tie wedding offers a wonderful opportunity to get dressed up and usually requires a full-length or at least midi-length dress, so this is something to consider in your initial planning stages.
You won't want to go for black, as this is usually frowned on at a wedding, you can however opt for darker hues such as navy, red, gunmetal, or purple for winter weddings, while in the summer punchier tones such as pink, green or orange will add a refreshing and zesty feel.
Black tie events demand luxe fabrications, and you can also get away with added embellishment and jewelry for a dressed-up feel. Silk, satin, velvet, sequins, and beadwork all work for evening dos, but as with all mother of the groom outfits, speak to the bride and bridal party to ensure you're in keeping with the theme and colour palette.
RRP: £379 | An unusual choice for black tie, but an absolute gem for the summer months, this floaty, full-length design is sure to turn heads for all the right reasons. The sheer, t-shirt style sleeve offers coverage and comfort, while the bold use of print, make this worthy of a mother of the groom dress.
RRP: £25 | A fold-over clutch is great for mothers of the groom as it doesn't expand very much, forcing you to pack light and enjoy your day, instead of lugging a big tote around. Can be worn on the shoulder too, with a slender chain strap for hands-free wear.
RRP: was £299 now £239 | Make sure to wear your chosen shoes in a few weeks before the big day to avoid discomfort at the event. These gold strappy sandals will give you some height in your floor-length gown, and the metallic will add some glamour to proceedings.
RRP: £178.24 | Ready to party, this one-shoulder jumpsuit draws the eye up the body to the statement shoulder detail, instantly lengthening and slimming your silhouette. A one-shoulder design need not be tricky to wear; just opt for a strapless or multiway bra.
RRP: £35 | An evening jumpsuit needs a heel - even if it's a small one. These metallic heels are party-ready and feature a slim ankle strap for added support. A style steal at under £40, they're available in sizes 3-8.
RRP: £55 | A chic designer lookalike for the trending Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti bone cuff, this elegant cuff adds just enough sparkle to your look, and when worn on the opposite wrist to the shoulder corsage will help to balance out this dramatic silhouette.
RRP: £150 | This forest green gown is ideal for hourglass and apple shapes alike. Skimming a midriff through the high-waisted cut, the clever placement of the lace creates a nipped-in waist as well as elegant arm coverage. The long line and rich colour ensure it's just right for black-tie parties too.
RRP: £79 | Keep bags compact to limit how much you have to hand on the big day. This is the time to be in the moment, so essentials are all you should pack. This sweet metallic clutch will work with a multitude of occasionwear looks.
RRP: £159 | Inject your footwear with some shine and opt for metallic footwear to complete your wedding-ready look. Avoid beaded shoes if you're wearing a floor-length gown, as you don't want to catch the delicate fabric of your dress on your shoes. Sole Bliss is one of Queen Camilla's favourite shoe brands and she regularly wears them for engagements.
How to select the best mother of the groom dresses
When it comes to the best mother of the groom dresses, consider familiar shapes that you know suit your frame, this will help you to narrow down the silhouettes you're shopping for and find the most flattering fits. While you will be somewhat beholden to the colour palette of the wedding and the fashion colour trends of the season (as this will dominate the high street offering), it's also important to ask yourself, 'what colour suits me?', so that you look your best on the day. Once you've gathered all of the above information, it's time to start shopping.
If you're heading to physical stores take a pair of shoes in the heel height you would wear to try on with outfits. It's also important to wear your best bra and underwear for your shopping trips, as this will give you a better sense of how items will sit. If you're conscious about having a smooth silhouette, invest in the best shapewear and bring it with for outfit try-ons.
You should also consider the following points in your decision.
- Colour: Lighter neutrals are a safe option for a daytime event. They won’t clash, will match every colour palette and will ensure you complement the wedding party beautifully. Absolutely avoid white at all costs or, if the bride is going for a warmer colour, bypass that too.
- Skirt length: You want to be comfortable on the day and not stand out for all the wrong reasons. Choose a below-the-knee length to ensure your skirt doesn’t ride up when you sit down or bend over. Guaranteed comfort and elegance all day. If you're unsure, try sitting in the outfit to make sure you're comfortable with how it falls and fits when you're sat down.
- Toy with trousers: Although mother of the groom dresses are often seen as more traditional, you don't have to rule trousers out altogether. A wide-leg iteration that sits on the hip then flares out slightly looks great on all shapes, while a wide or palazzo style leg, can give the illusion of wearing a dress. For an evening event, why not lean into tailoring and opt for one of the best tuxedos for women, ideal for a black tie or cocktail affair. Worried about making an outfit match? Flattering jumpsuits are also a lovely option for an easy and complete outfit. Opting for lighter fabrics such as linen or silk will prevent a corporate look and for maximum chic, team with some incredible statement accessories.
- Good shoes: As you’re likely to be on your feet all day and even dancing well into the night, fabulous footwear is key. Make sure to choose a heel height you're already happy with. Just because it's a special occasion, it doesn't mean you need to buy the biggest heel around. You can get some comfortable wedding guest shoes that also look beautiful, even designer iterations. Alternatively, if you want the best designer heels, opt for a mid-height heel or a wedge, as these will be easier to navigate the whole day in. And don't put them on for the first time on the big day, wear your shoes a few times before the wedding to avoid blisters.
- Statement bag: Your bag or clutch can be more extravagant than usual at a wedding, so choose one with exquisite embellishments or a metallic finish. If you've been looking for an excuse to buy one of the best designer bags, now could be the time. But remember, opt for something compact as you want to carry the absolute minimum with you.
Most importantly, as we have already stated, comfort and feeling like 'you' is key. The photos from this happy day will live on, and you should feel special and joyous on the day and beyond. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to find an outfit, and get any tailoring or alterations done in good time, so that you can simply relax and enjoy the run up to celebrations.
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