Fashion guide for mothers-of-the-bride and -groom from Colour Me Beautiful

As the mother-of-the-bride or -groom, all eyes will undoubtedly be on you on the big day. It's your moment to shine, and selecting the perfect outfit is paramount. With a plethora of choices available, navigating the world of fashion can feel overwhelming. But fear not, because Cliff Bashforth from Colour Me Beautiful is here to guide you through every step of the process, from choosing the right colours to finding the perfect hat or fascinator to complement your ensemble.

Choosing the Right Colours
When it comes to selecting the right colour for your outfit, consider the wedding theme and the season. While it's essential to avoid overshadowing the bride, don't be afraid to embrace bold hues that complement your skin tone and reflect your personal style. If you're unsure, check with the bride as to the colour scheme, as she won't want the photos to be a kaleidoscope of colours.

For spring and summer weddings, pastel shades such as soft pinks, lilacs, and mint greens exude elegance and sophistication. Opt for lighter fabrics like chiffon or silk for a breezy, feminine look.

For autumn and winter weddings, rich jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and deep burgundy add warmth and depth to your ensemble. Pair these colours with luxurious fabrics like velvet or brocade for a regal touch.

You'll know when you're wearing your best colours as they'll harmonise and balance with your natural colouring, making you look healthier and more radiant. If the colour is wrong, it can create shadows, dark circles around your eyes and even give you an uneven complexion; something I'm sure you'll agree should be avoided at all costs. Above all, choose a colour or colours that makes you feel confident and comfortable. After all, confidence is the best accessory you can wear.

Choosing the Right Style
The style of your outfit will depend on the style of the wedding, the time of year and where and when it is taking place. It's likely that your outfit is going to be one of the most expensive in your wardrobe so it's well worth considering whether there'll be occasions in the future where you can wear it again, a family christening, graduation or dinner dance for example and how you might be able to repurpose it. A simple shift dress and jacket can be re-accessorised with different shoes and a bag. Other options are to buy an outfit than can be altered after the event to make it more useful: say, by shortening a long dress or skirt that can be worn for less formal occasions. One of the most versatile 'mother-of-the-bride outfits' is a three-piece suit, which can then be split into the three different pieces to be worn with the rest of your wardrobe.

When selecting the style of your outfit, consider your body shape and personal preferences. Whether you prefer a classic silhouette or a more contemporary design, there are plenty of options to suit every taste. For triangle or pear-shaped figures, A-line dresses with a cinched waist are incredibly flattering, drawing attention to the smallest part of your body while skimming over the hips and thighs. For hourglass figures, opt for fitted dresses that accentuate your curves. Wrap dresses or sheath dresses with a V-neckline are particularly flattering, creating an elegant and elongated silhouette. For inverted triangle or apple-shaped figures, empire waist dresses or fit-and-flare styles are ideal, drawing attention away from the midsection and creating a balanced look. Remember to consider the neckline of your outfit as well. Whether you prefer a boat neck, sweetheart neckline, or off-the-shoulder style, choose a neckline that flatters your décolletage and complements your chosen accessories.

When selecting your outfit make sure that you take into account your scale and proportions as this will affect the suitability of various designs. If you're petite, then you should keep the details of your look small and delicate. If you have a larger-boned structure, you'll be able to wear larger scale patterns and accessories. If you are low-waisted, then look for outfits that are empire line as they'll give the illusion of longer leg. If you're high waisted then look for outfits that have a dropped waistline, one way you can achieve this is by wearing a jacket that finishes at your hip as this will help to give you a more balanced silhouette.

Choosing the Perfect Hat or Fascinator
No wedding ensemble is complete without the perfect hat or fascinator. When choosing headwear, consider the style of your outfit and the overall aesthetic of the wedding. For formal affairs, traditional wide-brimmed hats exude sophistication and glamour, especially when adorned with feathers, flowers, or intricate embellishments. Coordinate the colour of your hat with your outfit for a polished and cohesive look.

For more modern weddings, fascinators offer a chic and contemporary alternative to traditional hats. Opt for sleek and streamlined designs in bold colours or statement prints to add a pop of personality to your ensemble. When wearing a fascinator, position it on the side of your head at a slight angle for a flattering and stylish look. Experiment with different shapes and sizes until you find the perfect one to complement your outfit.

Lastly... Choosing the perfect outfit for the mother-of-the-bride or -groom is an exciting opportunity to showcase your personal style and celebrate this joyous occasion in style. By selecting the right colours, styles, and accessories, you can create a look that not only makes you feel fabulous but also complements the overall aesthetic of the wedding. So, embrace the opportunity to dazzle on the big day and enjoy every moment of this special occasion.

If you need help, then you could always treat yourself to a colour or style consultation with www.colourmebeautiful.co.uk