Stylish Mother of the Bride or Groom Outfits for Over 50's

When it comes to finding an outfit for the mother of the bride or groom, it’s not always easy.

From choosing the ideal wedding outfit colour to the fit and accessories, there is a lot to consider and put together. More often than not we aren’t professional stylists or experts at putting together outfits. Not to mention our wallets are certainly not bottomless. So I am here to guide you through the process of choosing your Mother of the Bride/Groom outfit for the over 50s.

I will be sharing some great places to browse for outfits, whether they be dresses, jumpsuits or suits, as well as accessories. I will then share some top outfit-choosing tips and answer some Mother of the Bride/Groom FAQs at the bottom of the article.

Whether you are the MOB/MOG yourself or you are kindly helping your mother/mother-in-law-to-be find their perfect wedding day outfit, I have your wedding outfit – sorted.

→ This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase – at no additional cost to yourself. 

Places Buy Mother of the Bride or Groom Outfits for Over 50s

When it comes to wedding outfit shopping, all too often we trawl the shops. Flitting in and out of changing rooms in a fluster and can quite frankly, get well, confused!

We worry about body parts we aren’t confident in when we want to feel fabulous and assured. Especially when it comes to a close loved one’s wedding, a son or daughter.

Sometimes it is easier to buy outfits online, you can multibuy outfits, swap and change in the comfort of your own home. AND go back and try again before making your final choice. So with that in mind, I am sharing some of my favourite places for mother-of-the-bride/groom attire.

Coast

Coast are synonymous with elegant occasionwear. From midi dresses to chic jackets and the most beautiful accessories. You’ll be hard-pressed not to find an outfit option for the big day.

 

Explore Coast's Outfits

John Lewis

John Lewis is a really great destination to buy a full outfit. With a range of different designers and so many beautiful accessories to choose from too.

 

Look at John Lewis' Outfits

 

Phase Eight

Phase Eight is a really popular place for occasionwear purchases for a reason. With fitted shift dresses, elegant coats and pretty fabrics galore.

 

View Phase Eight's Collection

 

Hobbs

For something a little more special, why not take a look at Hobbs’ attire? You’ll feel a million dollars in their sensational occasionwear.

 

Shop at Hobbs

 

Monsoon

Monsoon has been a go-to shop for pretty, feminine and classic designs. With a wide range of outfits to choose from as well as some really lovely accessories.

 

View Monsoon's Outfits

 

Oasis

Oasis always has some really great pieces for weddings and special occasions. With dresses as well as two pieces, with elegant lines.

 

Explore Oasis

 

Boden

Boden is often known for its daytime looks. But, they also have some really special, unique prints and flattering cuts perfect for party and wedding attire.

 

Browse Boden

 

Matalan

If you are on a tighter wedding outfit budget, Matalan is a great place to check out. They have outfits for all occasions, ages and styles.

 

Matalan's Occasionwear

 

Reiss

For the epitome of chic, as well as sharp tailoring, Reiss is a great place to check out stylish outfits for Mothers of the bride/groom.

 

Discover Reiss' Collection

 

Ted Baker

Ted Baker is popular for occasion pieces, with bold designs and unusual prints for a really beautiful wedding outfit.

 

Karen Millen

If you are looking for a fitted, shift style dress, Karen Millen is where you should be looking. Modern yet classic, MOTB/G, these dresses are perfect!

 

Check Out Karen Millen

 

Dressarte Paris

Dressarte Paris is a little different to the high street, you actually get to custom-make your outfit with a designer. How special would it be to create your own bespoke wedding attire?

Discover Dressarte Paris

 

Tips for Mother of the Bride/Groom Outfit Shopping

Let’s take a look at some of my top tips for mother-of-the-bride/groom outfit shopping, whether you are over 50, 60, 70, or 80+. These tips are sure to help make your outfit shopping easy breezy.

Get New Undies

Get great underwear if you don’t already. From shapewear to seam-free knickers and a decent bra, you’ll feel more confident and your clothes will look even more polished.

Don’t forget to invest in a decent pair of tights or pop socks if you are looking for more coverage or an extra layer.

Have Fun With Accessories

To wear a hat or not to wear a hat? The choice really comes down to you, but if anything, have fun with it!

Try getting accessories nailed after your outfit. That way you will be able to coordinate perfectly and be able to narrow down your options. Buying one thing at a time will reduce outfit shopping overwhelm too.

Think about taking flat shoes with you to wear in the evening, weddings can be long and you will want to be standing until the bitter end.

📌 Accessories To Think About

• Hat
• Fascinator
• Hair Accessories
• Necklace/Bracelet/Rings/Bracelet
• Shoes
• Belt
• Jacket/Cover-up
• Watch
• Glasses

Photo: Alice Cunliffe Photography via Happy Valley Wedding

 

Choosing Outfit Colours

Think about colours that suit you. Colours where people compliment you or you feel amazing wearing. Then try and narrow down your outfit choice to those hues. You don’t have to perfectly match everything, but could add different colours/patterns/textures to your accessories.

Ask the bride/groom if there is a colour scheme or if there are any colours to avoid before making your outfit purchase.

Don’t Overspend

Never feel that you have to spend a fortune to look or feel amazing. There are so many great places to buy affordable mother-of-the-bride/groom outfits. You may already own something or you could look for a second-hand outfit if you have a smaller budget.

Sometimes the bride/groom may offer to pay for outfits, but generally speaking, the mother of the bride/groom usually pays for their own attire.

Consider Alterations

If you find the perfect mother of the bride/groom outfit, but it doesn’t quite sit right. Don’t be afraid to get it altered by a local tailor or seamstress. A great-fitting outfit will look and feel all the more special.

Ask For Opinions

You could ask a friend/family member to help you choose your outfit. But you know your own style and how you feel, so go with your gut instincts. That being said, a trusted loved one should be able to help you make that final decision if you are wobbling over it.

Bear in mind that the bride/groom may have time to help, or maybe strapped for time due to wedding planning. The best thing to do is ask and if they aren’t available, find someone else to assist.

Photo: Lisa Carpenter Photography via Avoncroft Museum Wedding

 

Mother of the Bride/Groom FAQ

👉 What colour is the mother of the bride/groom supposed to wear?

There really are no hard and fast rules about which outfit colour you should or should not wear to your daughter/son’s wedding. If the bride/groom is wearing white or black, it’s best to check with them whether it’s OK for you to choose the same hue.

Traditionally only the bride wears white on a wedding day. However, more and more weddings are having the whole bridal party in white (a la Kate Moss) and some brides choose not to wear white.

The best thing to do is chat with the bride/groom and ask what colours are acceptable or favourable for your outfit. Then you can relax knowing you won’t be interfering with the colour scheme or causing any drama with your outfit.

Does the mother of the bride/groom have to match the wedding party?

Not at all, but it can be nice to have. It really is up to the bride/groom whether they’d like you to coordinate with the wedding party. It can come down to how much involvement you have on the day and if you have any special roles or responsibilities.

As well as if you will be photographed with the rest of the wedding party. It’s best to speak to the happy couple about their preference.

Does the mother of the bride/groom have to wear a long dress?

Absolutely not! You can choose the length of your hemline to suit you and your style. Feeling comfortable and at your best is key. The only thing to consider is not clashing with the bride/groom, so have a chat with them about what may work best on the wedding day.

Can the mother of the bride and the mother of the groom wear the same colour dress?

Yes, absolutely. There are no rules saying you can’t wear the same colour as your new in-laws. Just be careful not to match your outfit completely to make sure it doesn’t seem to planned out.

Photo: Emily + Katy Photography via Creative Village Hall Wedding

 

Does the mother of the bride wear a corsage?

Sometimes the mother of the bride/groom may get given a flower corsage to wear on the day. It comes down to whether the couple has ordered them as part of the wedding flowers.