37 Flattering Mother of the Groom Outfits for Chic Over 50s
Find your perfect mother of the groom outfit here, be it a dress, suit or jumpsuit - we have something for everyone!
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So, your son is engaged! And while they're busy planning a wedding, it's time for you to start browsing mother of the groom outfits and dresses.
There are plenty of wedding guest outfits which make perfect mother of the groom dresses, but not all of them are going to be appropriate for such an important role.
So to help you out, we've rounded up the best mother of the groom outfit ideas, including dresses, jumpsuits and trouser suits for every style of woman.
37 Incredibly Stylish Mother of the Groom Outfits for Over 50s
Whether you're after winter mother of the groom outfits or summer wedding dresses, petite or plus size, we've got you completely covered.
Plus, we caught up with the experts to put together our top mother of the groom outfit styling tips – whatever burning questions you might have, we’ve answered them all below. Keep on scrolling to discover your perfect piece.
You can also browse our mother of the bride dresses edit too for more inspiration.
- Mother of the Groom Dresses & Outfits
- Petite Mother of the Groom Outfits
- Plus Size Mother of the Groom Outfits
- Mother of the Groom Jumpsuits
- Mother of the Groom Trouser Suits
Mother of the Groom Dresses & Outfits
We're starting this edit with our favourite mother of the groom dresses, outfits and ideas.
1. Georgina Sequin Mother of the Groom Winter Dress - £190, Monsoon
We usually save the best until last, but we thought we'd flip things around and start with one of our absolute favourite mother of the groom dress ideas.
Perfect for mothers of the groom over 50, this sparkly sequin gown will ensure everyone knows who you are at the wedding.
Ideal for a smart black tie wedding or a glamorous winter do, it's shiny and really, really special.
Sizing: UK 8 - UK 18
Pros & Cons: Sequins are always a good idea, but pair with simple accessories so the dress is the true star of the show.
2. Estella Sparkly Mother of the Groom Dress - £159, Phase Eight
Ombre designs are so in right now and we love them for mother of the groom dress ideas - especially when they come as pretty as the Phase Eight Estella dress.
The ombre colours here are really emphasised by the pleated plisse style of fabric used.
The waist belt helps to cinch you in and create a gorgeous silhouette, and the sparkles can be paired with gold or silver accessories - the choice is yours.
Sizing: UK 8 - UK 26
Pros & Cons: This is a perfect winter mother of the groom outfit, but you may need a coat to stay warm at that time of year.
3. Eliza Embellished Mother of the Groom Maxi Dress - £175, Monsoon
There's something really fun about the Eliza dress. It's one of our favourite mother of the groom outfit ideas because it pairs a sophisticated and elegant colour with fun confetti-like embellishments.
The length is pretty and perfect for twirling around on the dancefloor in, and the styling here is spot on - gold everything!
Sizing: UK 8 - UK 24
Pros & Cons: The sleeves are gorgeous and sheer, but if you're attending a winter wedding you may want a coat to keep you warm in the evening.
4. Alana Satin Cut Out Mother of the Groom Dress - £99, Whistles
A gorgeous pink mother of the groom dress that we couldn't resist including is this number from Whistles. This is one of those mother of the groom outfits that you can really dress up for the wedding, but also wear in a slightly more casual setting after the big do.
It has such a beautiful shape with fluted sleeves and a pretty hem, plus the back features a chic cut-out that shows just the right amount of skin. It's also a steal at less than £100, considering how much wear you can get out of it.
Sizing: UK 4 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: This mother of the groom dress is crafted from recycled material that would otherwise have ended up in landfill. It's a simple design but with a tried and tested silhouette that will look amazing on all body types.
5. Lilia Velvet Mother of the Groom Long Dress - £125, Monsoon
The Lilia dress from Monsoon makes for a great mother of the groom dress for over 50s. The fabric is rich and expensive-looking, and the choice of velvet makes one of the prettiest mother of the groom winter wedding outfits.
The ruching is really flattering for all figures and we love the addition of sparkly bows by the neckline. So cute!
Sizing: UK 8 - UK 24
Pros & Cons: Velvet isn't everyone's favourite fabric, but we absolutely love it, and the texture and dark colour means any spillages are much less likely to show up.
6. Curved Tape Mother of the Groom Pencil Dress - £167, Coast
The first feature that drew us to this Coast dress was the sensational powder blue colour. We then saw the glittering belt and were completely sold. It's super appropriate for a mother of the groom outfit, being the ideal combination of relaxed and formal.
If pastel isn't your shade, and you prefer navy mother of the groom dresses, you'll be pleased to know that Coast stock this design in a deep navy shade, too. Score!
Sizing: UK 8 - UK 18
Pros & Cons: The curved line design not only looks unique and interesting, it will flatter your figure too. At the back of the skirt there is a small split which makes walking and dancing in the pencil style a lot easier.
7. Bailly Fit and Flare Mother of the Groom Dress - £115, Hobbs
Forget everything you’ve heard about wearing black to weddings – when the design is as interesting as this black and blue Hobbs dress, you can absolutely pull it off. The sleeveless straps are great if you like to show off your shoulders and the midi hemline will ensure you’re not held back on the dance floor.
This outfit is ideal for those looking for blue mother of the groom dresses that aren't too vibrant, as the black and white panels break up the blue shade, allowing it to still pop without being too bold.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 18
Pros & Cons: Colour blocking is a big trend at the moment so you'll gain major style points with this number. The bold pattern means accessorising may be tricky - we'd advise pairing this with black heels and clutch for a sophisticated look.
8. Fiona Cotton Blend Shift Mother of the Groom Dress - £119, Hobbs
We love this Hobbs number for those who want mother of the groom summer dresses that still feel smart and wedding-worthy. The pretty pink flowers are so pretty and we love the way they cascade down the dress. It's even more perfect if the wedding flowers are set to be pink as well!
air with a pink blazer to bring the whole look together and keep your shoulders warm come evening.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: Technically this is a mostly white dress, so we'd recommend checking with the couple that they're fine with it, but it's not a wedding dress and we think the flowers and midi length do a great job of differentiating it from anything bridal.
9. Satin Twist Puff Sleeve Midi Dress - £36.99, New Look
Bold and beautiful, this blue number from New Look is a fabulous high street wedding guest dress, and possibly one of the most budget friendly blue mother of the groom dresses you'll find!
It is one of those slip-on-and-go styles that will become a staple in your wardrobe well after the wedding day, and is an absolute steal at just £30.
Sizing: UK 8 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: It is part of New Look's tall collection but if you are a petite mother of the groom you can absolutely still rock it - it'll just be a maxi length instead of midi.
10. Mariposa Mother of the Groom Jacket and Dress - £99 & £125 , Phase Eight
The Mariposa jacket looks so romantic with the matching dress, contrasting beautifully with that intricate lace bodice. The shade of pink is perfect - elegant rather than sugary.
We love when everything is matchy-matchy and by buying multiple pieces for mother of the groom outfits, you have more items to mix and match after the wedding.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20 (dress) / UK 6 - UK 26 (jacket)
Pros & Cons: Being able to buy these as separates means you can wear each of them again with different accessories. Some mothers of the groom may feel nervous about wearing such a pale pastel so if you're unsure, check with the couple.
11. Emmie Asymmetric Hem Mother of the Groom Dress - £119, Phase Eight
We're predicting lilac is going to be the wedding guest colour of this year - get on the trend early with the Emmie dress from Phase Eight. The neckline on this simply gorgeous mother of the groom dress is super interesting and unique, featuring asymmetrical straps.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 26
Pros & Cons: As the colour indicates, this pretty pastel ensemble is simply asking to be worn to a spring or summer wedding. Add this beauty to your basket quickly - it is likely to sell-out!
12. Pleated Stripe Metallic Maxi Dress - £69, Oasis
This Oasis dress instantly caught our eye so it's bound to make a statement when worn as a mother of the groom outfit. The dobby print and pleated fabric adds a luxe touch to the look and the colours are just glorious.
Anyone looking for mother of the groom maxi dresses that are totally different from what everyone else will be wearing should seriously consider this gown.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 18
Pros & Cons: We love the way the skirt flows effortlessly down - it'll look amazing in photographs and on the dance floor. The pattern speaks for itself so minimal accessories are recommended.
This dress comes wedding-editor approved, as our very own editor of Hitched, Zoe Burke, recently wore it to a wedding (as a guest, not as a mother of the groom!): "I had so many compliments and it was just perfect for swishing on the dance floor," she says.
13. Phase Eight Belted Mother of the Groom Dress - £150, Marks & Spencer
This dress from Marks & Spencer is a real showstopper. It's one of those mother of the groom dresses you'd expect to see on the red carpet, worn by a sophisticated celebrity - so it's certainly perfect for playing a starring role at your child's wedding.
The ombre pattern is unique and gives this blue mother of the groom dress a softness to it.
Sizing: UK 8 - UK 26
Pros & Cons: The ombre finish to this stunning long mother of the groom dress is so trendy and unique - you won't have to worry about anyone showing up in a similar style.
Marks & Spencer can deliver this gown in five working days but do offer a click and collect service for those who need the design quicker.
14. Hope & Ivy Rhea Maxi Mother of the Groom Dress - £100, Simply Be
The fabulous shade of teal on this dress from Simply Be is what really makes it stand out from the crowd - that and the chic star embossed embroidery. We love the way this model has paired it with metallic gold accessories but silver would work just as well.
Customers love how unique this mother of the groom outfit idea is, with one saying it's an, "Unusual and very pretty dress in a flattering style."
Sizing: UK 10 - UK 28
Pros & Cons: The attention to detail on this dress is exceptional, from the delicate buttons to the beading. To keep the embellishments in the best condition, we recommend hand washing. See more plus size mother of the bride or groom outfits here.
15. Cecily Wrap Shirt Midi Mother of the Groom Dress - £90, Reiss
Reiss provides effortlessly cool looks that any chic mother of the groom will adore. Take this purple shirt dress for example - the vibrant shade looks so luxurious and the loose-fitting style will ensure you are comfortable all day.
It's on sale for just £90 which is an absolute steal when browsing mother of the groom dress ideas at a brand like Reiss.
Sizing: UK 4 - UK 18
Pros & Cons: The great thing about this style of dress is that you can tie it to fit you how you feel best - whether that's a low cut neckline or a more covered look.
16. Leonora Shift Pink Mother of the Groom Dress - £149, LK Bennett
In a sugary sweet shade of pastel pink that we can't get enough of is this stunning LK Bennett frock. The square neckline is very flattering, as is the wide waist belt.
We just love mother of the groom outfit ideas where everything coordinates - so the matching dress, belt and shoes here are really doing it for us. The buckle on the belt even matches the detail on the heels - it's just everything.
If you're into matching like we are, shop the patent pink court shoes here - available in UK size 2 - 9.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 18
Pros & Cons: There's a vintage appeal to this dress that we love. It's just under £150 (down from £299, mind you) making it a very reasonably priced and timeless design that you can re-wear for celebrations to come.
17. Dani Floral Pleated Midi Mother of the Groom Dress - £140, Phase Eight
This watercolour floral Phase Eight dress is the perfect dress for a warm spring afternoon or summer evening wedding – it's light and breathable so will be easy to dance in.
Sizing: 6-26
Pros & Cons: This dress comes with a beautiful leather belt that will flatter all figures. Reviews state that it is on the longer side so if you are a shorter mother of the groom, you may want to opt for higher heels to balance the look.
18. Blue Mother of the Groom Dress With Slit - £349.30, Karen Millen
This dress from Karen Millen has been designed to make a statement with embellished sleeves, a bright blue hue and a leg slit that’s super flattering. What really sets it apart is the boldness of the look that'll mean that no one else will be wearing anything remotely similar.
Blue mother of the groom dresses are a great option as this colour makes a statement whilst not being too out there, but if you did fancy something super bold and bright, the dress is also available in yellow, as well as black for those who prefer a subtle, smart look.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 16
Pros & Cons: You won't have to worry about wearing too many accessories with this look - the rhinestones and pink fabric do all the talking for you. If the leg split is too high for your taste, it would pair perfectly with black tights.
19. Wrap Star Print Mother of the Groom Maxi Dress - £62, SilkFred
Firstly, we can't believe how much of a steal this gorgeous navy mother of the groom dress is.
At just £62, this versatile wrap dress can be worn to your son's wedding, paired with sparkly or metallic heels and glam clutch, as well as being re-worn to more informal events, too.
We love the cute ties at the bottom of the half-length sleeves and the wrap silhouette means you can adjust the waist and neckline to a silhouette which suits you.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 18
Pros & Cons: Love this silhouette? Us too - and the best news is that you can buy this dress in a whopping 13 different colours and patterns. The skew options include leopard print, zebra and floral designs, as well as classic black, to name just a few.
Petite Mother of the Groom Outfits
Find your perfect mother of the groom outfit ideas here in the petite section.
20. Red Petite Mother of the Groom Dress - £125.30, Karen Millen
Searching for petite mother of the groom outfits in the UK can be tricky because you want a dress with all the right proportions that will flatter a shorter frame.
We were delighted when we came across this stunning red wrap dress from Karen Millen. Perfect for petite mother of the grooms over 50, the dress has lovely embellished finish and striking red colour. The cuffs on the sleeves ensure you won't feel swamped by the fabric and the wrap detail allows you to cinch in that waist.
Sizing: UK 4 - UK 16
Pros & Cons: Red is a really striking colour and one not many others will wear to a wedding. If you want to tone it down slightly, pair with nude accessories and shoes.
21. Petite Mother of the Groom Jumpsuit Outfit - £99, Phase Eight
On the hunt for petite mother of the groom outfits for over 50s in the summer? That might seem like a tough order to fulfil, but we're confident this jumpsuit from Phase Eight ticks every box and more.
Also available in regular length as well as petite, this jumpsuit is bound to impress at a summer wedding. The print is fun and summery, and the frills at the top are super flattering.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 18
Pros & Cons: The wide leg gives you plenty of room to breathe and is perfect for those who want to wear flats without it being super obvious.
22. Satin Embroidered Petite Mother of the Groom Outfit - £209.30
If you're looking for petite mother of the groom outfits but don't want to splurge on two pieces, the Guipure dress from Karen Millen could solve your problems.
The top half of this petite gown is made up of embroidered lace and beading, and the bottom is a contrasting satin skirt. It looks like two separate pieces, but it is in fact one dress.
Sizing: UK 4 - UK 16
Pros & Cons: We love the shade of this mother of the groom gown, but as well as this chic sage colour, this gown is also available to buy in ivory and blush pink.
23. Bronze Petite Mother of the Groom Dress - £149, Phase Eight
Looking for a Grecian goddess-style mother of the groom outfits for over 50s? If so, you'll love the Brielle bronze dress from Phase eight.
This gorgeous winter mother of the groom outfit has a really luxurious feel to it due to the sheen of the fabric, and the V-neckline and leg slit allows you to show a little skin, too.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 16
Pros & Cons: For mothers of the groom who are really short, you could still purchase this gown and wear it as a maxi, and for anyone taller who wants a longer look as well, the dress is also available in regular length.
24. Tailored Petite Mother of the Groom Dress - £35, Wallis
Part of the Wallis petite collection, this pale pink dress is sophistication at its finest. From the long sleeves to the cowl neckline, it's a brilliant option for those who want to be a little more covered up.
We love Wallis for petite mother of the groom outfits and this particular dress is available in both this lovely pastel pink shade, as well as a gorgeous sage green.
Sizing: UK 8 - UK 18
Pros & Cons: This demure look is sophisticated but far from stuffy - the midi length and soft hue keeps the outfit contemporary.
Plus Size Mother of the Groom Outfits
When it comes to shopping for plus size wedding outfits for mother of the groom looks, you won't find better than these gorgeous gowns we've selected.
Here you'll find amazing mother of the groom outfits for over 50s that are plus size and to-die-for.
25. Plus Size Baby Blue Mother of the Groom Maxi Dress - £237.30, Karen Millen
If you want mother of the groom outfit ideas that could be worn in any season and at any time of year, look to this pastel blue number from Karen Millen.
The sleeves make it warm enough for autumn and winter weddings, while the sheerness of them, and gorgeous pastel colour make it an appropriate look for spring and summer, too.
And if you are specifically looking for mother of the groom dresses for summer outdoor wedding celebrations, opt for this version which sees the same dress styled as a halter neck instead.
Sizing: UK 18 - UK 24
Pros & Cons: The roomy sleeves will ensure you don't feel hot or claustrophobic in this outfit, but the pastel colour could leave clumsy guests open to stains - napkins on laps and no red wine please!
26. Plus Size Mother of the Groom Pleated Long Dress - £223.30, Karen Millen
Yes, we're about to deliver another killer Karen Millen dress - they're just too good.
This plus size diamante gown is one of our favourite mother of the groom outfits for over 50s because it's modest and classic in its silhouette, but it's seriously fun when it comes to the diamante trim and that iconic print.
The overall look and feel of this mother of the groom dress is vivacious and playful, whilst remaining really sophisticated at the same time.
Sizing: UK 18 - UK 24
Pros & Cons: The diamante trim on the neckline, waist and wrists means you may have to forgo your favourite jewellery so as to not take anything away from the dress detail - but this could also see you save money on accessories if you hadn't yet bought anything.
27. Anaya With Love Floral Ruffle Midaxi Dress - £57, Lovedrobe
On the hunt for wedding outfits for mother of the groom that are unapologetically pretty? If so, this Lovedrobe number could be just the ticket.
The mother of the groom dress combines florals, blush pink and red, plus a layered ruffle skirt, all to a bewitching effect, making it perfect for summer weddings in the sun.
Sizing: UK 18 - UK 30
Pros & Cons: This dress is perfect for twirling and dancing all night long. The peach colour may wash some skin tones out but we have a great article on wedding fake tan if you need an added glow.
28. Plus Size Mother of the Groom Maxi Dress - £134.10, Coast
You already know how much we love navy mother of the groom dresses, and this Coast gown is no exception. The colour is deep and rich, making the dress look expensive and luxurious.
We also love the way the lace embellishment reflects against the light, and the illusion sleeves help to showcase the embroidered detail, too.
Sizing: UK 18 - UK 26
Pros & Cons: The sheer sleeves on this mother of the groom dress give coverage without being completely opaque, but the lace is delicate and could snag on jewellery if you're not careful.
Mother of the Groom Jumpsuits
If a dress just isn't for you, prepare to dive into one of our favourite mother of the groom outfit ideas ever - jumpsuits!
These mother of the groom jumpsuits are perfect for over 50s who want to have some fun with their outfit whilst still looking completely wedding-worthy.
29. HotSquash Blouson Mother of the Groom Jumpsuit - £149, John Lewis
If dresses aren't for you but you don't want to wear a suit, consider this striking maroon outfit, ideal for those looking for dressy jumpsuits for a mother of the groom.
We love this look for a winter wedding where you want to be warm, but also wear a colour that matches the season, and the damson colour of this jumpsuit does just that. But if you prefer a more festive shade, you can also purchase this mother of the groom jumpsuit in woodland teal.
Sizing: UK 8 - UK 22
Pros & Cons: It is also available in black as well. If you are shorter, you may need to take the length up slightly or pair with heels.
30. Red Mother of the Groom Jumpsuit With Draping - £95
Those looking for flattering mother of the groom outfits for over 50s should seriously consider the Delia look from Monsoon.
This wide leg jumpsuit has a super flattering silhouette to it thanks to the unique asymmetric draped overlay at the top. Not only does it add movement as you walk, but the draping adds more modesty if you prefer to be more covered up.
The draping parts at the back giving you plenty of freedom to move around, especially when it's time to boogie the night away on the dance floor. Make some room peeps - the mother of the groom is coming through.
Sizing: UK 8 - UK 24
Pros & Cons: The block colour on this jumpsuit means you can pair with almost any colour shoes, bag and jewellery, but we really love the way the model has styled it with gold block heels - gold and red are a killer combo for sure.
31. Embellished Dressy Mother of the Groom Jumpsuit - £286.30, Karen Millen
If you're after dressy mother of the groom jumpsuits and outfits, look no further than this halter neck design from Karen Millen.
We adore this beaded halter neck jumpsuit - the attention to detail is undeniable and the colours are both warm and regal, perfect for a black tie or winter wedding celebration.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 16
Pros & Cons: This jumpsuit does have an open back to it which allows you to show a bit more skin, but if you'd prefer to be more covered up, you could wear a jacket or have a seamstress add in a plain panel.
32. Simone Wide Leg Mother of the Groom Jumpsuit - £139, Phase Eight
Bold shoppers will go wild over this fuschia number from Phase Eight. We love the Simone piece - it's one of those mother of the groom jumpsuits which stands out for all the right reasons. The colour is vibrant and bold, and the silhouette is modern and flattering.
The halter neck means you don't need to wear any jewellery with this one - just a silver clutch and shoes will complete this look.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: You'll need to wear a strapless, halter neck (or no!) bra with this outfit to avoid bra straps showing, but you're guaranteed a secure fit as the halter neck on this jumpsuit is adjusted by a tie, so you can have it as tight or as loose as you need.
33. Mindy Two-in-One Mother of the Groom Jumpsuit - £99, Phase Eight
Another bold coloured mother of the groom jumpsuit we love is the Mindy outfit. This raspberry-coloured wide leg jumpsuit has a really flattering shape. The wrap top fits really flatters the body whether you're big-busted or have a smaller top, and the blouson sleeves are tailored really well.
Because of the warm tone, we'd recommend styling this look with nude or gold shoes and accessories to complement the peachy shade.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: You get two outfits in one with this mother of the groom jumpsuit, as the top blouse detaches, leaving you with a strappy jumpsuit and an additional option. If you're after mother of the groom summer outfits, this one is ideal as it gives you a sunny option, as well as a blouse to add on when it gets nippy in the evening.
Mother of the Groom Trouser Suits
Bag yourself the perfect mother of the groom trouser suits look with one (or more!) of these chic picks.
34. Dark Sage Tailored Mother of the Groom Trouser Outfit - £65 & £39.50, M&S
If your son is throwing a botanical themed wedding, opt for this dark sage suit and you won't regret it.
This tailored Marks & Spencers mother of the groom trouser suit comes in sizes UK 6 - 24 and trouser lengths petite, regular and tall, so you're guaranteed a perfect fit whatever you choose.
Though the colour is subtle, accessorising this trouser outfit can be a lot of fun. Think bright pinks, oranges and yellows for a bold look, or keep things chic with nudes and blacks.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 24 (petite, regular and tall)
Pros & Cons: This colour goes with everything and is a popular colour for bridesmaid dresses, too.
35. Joni Jacquard Mother of the Groom Trouser Outfit - £125 & £75, Monsoon
We love mother of the groom trouser suits which look and feel super expensive (without too hefty of a price tag, mind you) - and if you're the same, the Joni jacquard jacket and trousers is the outfit for you.
The jacquard fabric feels super luxe and the metallic pattern just adds to the high-end look and feel of the outfit.
Pair with either gold or silver accessories to elevate this even further.
Sizing: UK 8 - UK 24
Pros & Cons: Jacquard fabric isn't known for its stretch, so if you're in-between sizes you may want to try on two and see which fits better, however, suits are fairly easy to tailor should you need to tweak the fit.
36. Navy Blue Sparkly Mother of the Groom Trouser Suit - £85 & £65, Monsoon
Considering how expensive this Monsoon outfit looks, the price tags are an absolute bargain at just £150 for both the sparkly blazer and trousers.
We love this colour for parents at weddings! Navy mother of the groom dresses, outfits and trouser suits just look so fancy and elegant, and the sparks on this particular two-piece only add to that vibe.
It's also a great shade for mother of the groom winter outfits - this suit reminds us of tinsel and would be ideal for a Christmas-themed wedding.
Sizing: UK 8 - UK 24
Pros & Cons: This outfit has all the sparkles already, so we wouldn't recommend over-accessorising too much. A simple set of jewels and a small clutch is all you need.
37. Blair Mother of the Groom Trouser Suit - £195 & £75, Reiss
Wearing a suit as a mother of the groom immediately looks stylish and when it's in trendy shade of pink like this set from Reiss, it's even cooler.
Shorter customers may steer clear of suits as they are often too long, but this suit actually works for people seeking petite mother of the groom outfits as both the trousers and jacket come in a petite version.
Sizing: UK 4 - UK 18
Pros & Cons: If wearing an all-pink suit feels a little too much, wear either the trousers or blazer separately with white or neutral coloured alternatives.
Where Can You Buy Nice Mother of the Groom Outfits?
You can find gorgeous mother of the groom outfits in many of your favourite high street stores such as Phase Eight, Coast and Marks & Spencer. That's just when you're searching for mother of the groom outfits in the UK - if you look further afield to online shops including US brand Reformation, you'll find even more lovely designs to choose from.
Is My Mother of the Groom Outfit Too Plain?
Your mother of the groom outfit doesn't have to make a huge statement if that's not your typical style - there are lots of beautiful styles that are minimalistic and still special enough to be worn to your son's wedding.
If you feel like your mother of the groom outfit is too plain, it can easily be dressed up with accessories. Metallic gold and silver are a fabulous choice for a wedding as they'll give your outfit a touch of sparkle, without going overboard with the glitter.
Eight Mother of the Groom Outfit Styling Tips
John Charles are renowned for their luxury occasionwear, so we thought it only right to catch up with Regine Ellis, their Creative Director, for her top tips. From colour palettes to whether or not you can wear white, she has all the answers to help you look your best on the biggest day of your son's life.
1. What Does the Mother of the Groom Wear?
There aren’t any hard and fast rules, but there are a few recommendations when it comes to choosing your mother of the groom outfit. First of all – you’ve got to make an effort! You should choose something smart and good quality – it is a major milestone for your family, after all.
"Choosing a quality outfit will not only give you a great silhouette, you’ll also have an outfit that will last a lifetime", says Regine.
You should also consider colour. Regine adds: "Work to complement the wedding’s colour palette, not match it. Look at the colour scheme of the wedding party; if the bridesmaids are in lilac, go for a rich deep purple accent. You should also be aware of the type of wedding and venue your son is having, as this should be reflected in your outfit."
Last but not least, you’ve got to abide by the golden rule of styling! That is to work with what you have and highlight your most beautiful features. Regine told us: "A knee-length, tailored fit is fantastic for elongating and showcasing legs, for example".
2. When Should the Mother of the Groom Buy the Dress?
You should plan to find your look shortly after the couple have chosen their outfits. This ensures you know any themes you should follow and gives you plenty of time before the wedding to have any alterations made if necessary.
3. Can the Mother of the Groom Wear the Same Colour Dress as the Mother of the Bride/Other Groom?
Of course! There is no rule to say that you can’t wear the same colour as the mother of the bride or other mother of the groom. The key is to make sure you’re wearing dresses in colours that don’t clash, if you’re opting for different shades.
Traditionally, the mother of the bride would buy her dress first, and then consult with the mother of the groom who’d buy something to complement the chosen gown. Now, the rules are a little less strict – but we’d still recommend you confer before the big day!
4. Can the Mother of the Groom Wear a Patterned Dress?
Yes, you can – in fact, some of our favourite mother of the groom dresses are patterned. As long as your dress doesn’t clash with the wedding party’s outfits, you’re good to go.
5. Can the Mother of the Groom Wear Black to a Wedding?
These days, black dresses are very much accepted for the mother of the groom. It’s elegant, chic and, as you'll see from the selection above, there are so many lovely black or monochrome mother of the groom dresses out there.
As long as the couple are happy with your colour choice, there’s nothing to say you can’t choose a black outfit.
6. How Should the Mother of the Groom Prepare for the Big Day?
"Have a pampering session and get your makeup done professionally for the big day', Regine advises. "Bear in mind the running around you’ll be doing on the day… and the tears! Be prepared to apply touch ups."
7. Can the Mother of the Groom Wear White?
It is acceptable to wear off-white, but it's best if it's broken up into a print with other colours. It can look a little attention-seeking otherwise.
8. Does the Mother of the Groom Wear a Hat?
If you want to - absolutely yes! "It’s the eternal signature of glamour and a form of costume that gives you confidence. A comfortable, securely placed hat will always look lovely", says Regine.
Now that you’ve got your mother of the groom outfit sorted, check out our personalised wedding gift ideas to find the perfect present for your son and his partner
