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Bridal fashion has grown over the years and there are so many fashion-forward modern dresses available for brides.
Finally, we can see this happening with the mother of the bride and groom’s outfits also.
Traditionally the mother’s outfits have been frumpy and old fashioned, but now you can find fantastic dresses for mums that not only look great and suit her figure but are modern and fashionable too.
So if you’re looking for something a little bit more unusual and stylish than the traditional mother of bride or groom outfit, then check out some of these fantastic dresses.
You’ll feel amazing and your children will love seeing you in one of these cool outfits!
How to not look frumpy in your mother of the bride outfit
According to Tania Stephans, who is an expert in over 50s fashion and styling.
“One of the most obvious signs that you’re looking frumpy is if your clothes are too big or too small. Clothes that are too big can make you look shapeless and unkempt, while clothes that are too small can be uncomfortable and unflattering.”
This is why I always suggest to mothers to have their dress or outfit professionally altered. It is not always needed but it is definitely a surefire way to not look frumpy.
I talk further down about styling your outfit as this can play a huge part in the overall look.
But the main thing is confidence and comfort. So making sure what you wear fits well and feels comfortable is the number one thing to consider.
When you feel good it shows and as they say, confidence is key.
WHERE TO BUY unique MOTHER OF THE BRIDE & groom DRESSES?
If you are looking for something that won’t make you look frumpy, we say forget about the traditional mother of the bride shops and get looking online.
Look in your favourite shops also and see what formal wear they have.
As a special occasion going to your favourite designer is a great way to have a classy mother of the bride or groom outfit.
BEST ONLINE PLACES FOR UNIQUE MOTHER OF THE BRIDE AND GROOM OUTFITS
Unique MOTHER OF THE BRIDE OR GROOM OUTFITS that are not frumpy
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1. URBAN EDITOR CHOICE – ALEXANDER MACQUEEN
These dresses are for the ultra-cool mother looking for a fashion-forward dress.
One that is stylish and modern but with a bit of edge! My go-to wedding style!
Even More Stunning Self Portrait Options
2. MOST CLASSY MOTHER OF THE BRIDE OR GROOM DRESS – SELF PORTRAIT
This dress is perfect for a formal wedding, it is in a light pink traditional mother the bride colour.
But its modern design, great fit and stunning detail make it the perfect choice for the elegant modern mother.
Self Portrait is one of my favourite designers, especially for weddings and special occasions.
The designs are stunning and modern and the quality is exceptional. I have never been disappointed.
I would say they run small so might need to go a size up.
Even More Stunning Self Portrait Options
3. THE BEST FLORAL DRESS – NEEDLE AND THREAD
This maxi dress is light and floaty, it would work in all seasons with its long sheer sleeves.
It is perfect for a formal or relaxed outdoor wedding.
Needle and Thread is another designer I love! If you are looking for something floral, romantic, or super pretty, head their way.
The quality is amazing and it is hard not to feel great in their dresses. All the ones I’ve had are floaty and feel so nice on while still giving me the shape I desire.
More prettiness overload from Needle & Thread
4. BEST GOLD MOTHER OF THE BRIDE OR GROOM DRESS – RICKIE FREEMAN FOR TERI JON
This is definitely a showstopper mother of the bride dress. Full-length gold glitter textured fabric adds drama and luxury to really wow on the big day.
The stiff fabric holds its shape well and the textured design is so elegantly done.
Head here for more gold mother of the bride and groom outfits.
If you like the dress above check out Rickie’s collection for Teri Jon, you won’t be disappointed!
5. CAPE MOTHER OF THE BRIDE DRESS – ELLIE SAAB
We love a bridal cape here at the urban wedding company! But why should only the bride or groom have a cape?
Ellie Saab has a few stunning cape options. They are a great choice not to look frumpy!
Ellie Saab is a higher price point but the quality and unique design are worth the splash, especially for your child’s big day!
Check some of our favourite Elie Saab Options
6. BEST FOR A BLACK-TIE WEDDING – ADRIANNA PAPELL
This dress is so stylish and elegant.
The perfect non-frumpy dress that is timeless and you know you will still love it 10 years down the line.
Adrianna Papell is the perfect designer for unique dresses. They are at a great price point for their quality also.
They have a good size range and I love that you can borrow some of the dresses rather than buy them.
Check out some of our Adrianna Papell Favourites
7. BEST PANTSUIT – REISS
The stone colour of this pantsuit is stylish, comfy and so modern for the mother of the bride or groom.
Reiss is always my go to for suits and tailoring.
Size: 6 – 14 | Fabric: Cotton
8. BEST WINTER – Ivory & Kate
Nothing says winter like velvet!
It can be hard to find a stylish dress that will also keep you warm. This one is definitely both!
Check out our best winter mother of the bride and groom outfits
9. BEST Sequin – HOPE AND IVY
I love this pretty dress that flows and fits in all the right places.
The sequin detailing is stunning. The soft chiffon feel luxurious. The whole dress is so stylish.
Hope and Ivy have some super pretty choices.
10. BEST JUMPSUIT – ASOS
I love this jumpsuit. The shape is great and feels amazing on.
The perfect summer or spring mother of the bride outfit.
It is light and comfy while still looking stylish and modern.
More Mother of the Bride and Groom Blogs You Will Love!
- 12 mother of the bride (& Groom) Medium Length Hairstyle ideas
- 11+ Elegant Half-Up Hairstyles for Mothers of the Bride
- Being There for Your Son: A Modern Mother of the Groom’s Guide
- Mother of the bride (& groom) For over 50 & 60
- Winter Mother of the Bride Dresses and Outfits: warm and stylish
- Unique Mother of the Bride or Groom Outfits, No Frumpy Mother Dresses Here!
11. BEST BUDGET – ASOS
Sometimes spending less means you have to compromise. With this dress there is none!
Stylish, modern mother of the bride dress. It is simple but still packs a wow and definitely won’t be looking frumpy in this one!
12. SKIRT AND JACKET – LISA TAN COAST
How super stylish is this two-piece?
They do it in oink also but I just love how stylish the navy color is.
Wearing a darker colour like navy helps to look slimmer in your outfit.
13. TEA-LENGTH DRESS – COAST
I am in love with this dress! It feels so great and gets you ready to dance the night away!
14. TUXEDO DRESS – COAST
If you want the formal suit look but with a modern take this dress is for you!
You feel smart and formal while it is also so comfy.
15. MODERN METALLIC – The Vampire’s Wife
This dress is how to do metallic!
I love the vintage yet modern feel of the cut. The dress gives you a nice shape while being a nice loose fit. Room for that extra slice of cake!
Check out The Vampire’s Wife for some super unique dresses.
16. BEST WRAP DRESS – MAYLEEN STUDIO
This dress is super pretty and fun. Perfect for any season.
Wrap dresses are great for all shapes and sizes.
These dresses remind me of the Zimmermann ones we are always sharing but a lot more affordable.
More Mother of the Bride and Groom Blogs You Will Love!
- 12 mother of the bride (& Groom) Medium Length Hairstyle ideas
- 11+ Elegant Half-Up Hairstyles for Mothers of the Bride
- Being There for Your Son: A Modern Mother of the Groom’s Guide
- Mother of the bride (& groom) For over 50 & 60
- Winter Mother of the Bride Dresses and Outfits: warm and stylish
- Unique Mother of the Bride or Groom Outfits, No Frumpy Mother Dresses Here!
How to style an outfit to not look frumpy
Styling a mother of the bride outfit to avoid looking frumpy involves selecting the right clothing, accessories, and makeup to create a sophisticated look.
Head to our guide on hiding belly fat for top tips to looking slimmer.
Here are some tips to help you achieve that:
- Choose a Flattering Dress:
- Opt for a dress or outfit that complements your body shape and fits well. Consider A-line, sheath, or wrap-style dresses, as they tend to be universally flattering.
- Pay attention to the length of the dress; a knee-length or tea-length dress is often a good choice, as it looks elegant without being overly formal.
- Select the Right Color:
- Consult with the bride to ensure your outfit complements the wedding colour scheme.
- Neutral colours like navy, champagne, silver, or soft pastels are typically safe and sophisticated choices.
- Focus on Fabric:
- Choose high-quality, luxurious fabrics that drape well and add an element of sophistication to your outfit, such as silk, chiffon, or lace.
- Less is more, don’t go for fabrics with too much detail or texture they can be overpowering
- Accessorize Thoughtfully:
- Add statement jewellery like a statement necklace, elegant earrings, or a stylish bracelet to elevate your look.
- A clutch bag or small handbag in a coordinating colour can be a stylish addition.
- Keep it simple and stylish, pick colours that compliment your outfit
- Consider a Jacket or Cover-Up:
- Depending on the weather and the formality of the event, you may want to wear a matching jacket, shawl, or bolero to stay warm and add a layer of sophistication.
- Again, consider your outfit choice and don’t over layer to look bulky and want the lengths to match up.
- Pay Attention to Makeup and Hairstyling:
- Consider professional makeup and hairstyling to complete your look.
- Opt for a natural and polished makeup look, and choose a hairstyle that complements your dress and personal style.
- Confidence is Key:
- Confidence can make any outfit look stylish. Wear your outfit with pride and confidence, and you’ll radiate elegance.
- Tailoring Matters:
- Ensure your outfit fits perfectly by getting it tailored if necessary. Proper fit can significantly enhance your overall appearance. It can be key to not looking frumpy!
- Consider Your Personal Style:
- Incorporate elements of your personal style into your outfit to feel comfortable and authentic.
- What you usually wear is more than likely what suits you, work with that but looking for something more special.
Unique mother of the bride dresses, no frumpy outfits here!
Ultimately, the key to not looking frumpy is to strike a balance between elegance and comfort while staying true to your personal style.
Collaborate with the couple and consider their preferences while choosing your outfit to ensure that it complements the overall wedding theme.
Check out these real mothers of the brides for fabulous inspiration.
What you will notice is they all keep the hair and make up simple and elegant. They let the unique outfits shine.
I am sure you will agree they all look fabulous and definitely not a single frumpy look insight!
More blogs you will love!
- 12 mother of the bride (& Groom) Medium Length Hairstyle ideas
- 11+ Elegant Half-Up Hairstyles for Mothers of the Bride
- Being There for Your Son: A Modern Mother of the Groom’s Guide
- Mother of the bride (& groom) For over 50 & 60
- Winter Mother of the Bride Dresses and Outfits: warm and stylish
- Unique Mother of the Bride or Groom Outfits, No Frumpy Mother Dresses Here!
- Budgeting for Your Mother of the Bride/Groom Dress: How to Look Fabulous Without Breaking the Bank
- Mother of the bride (& groom) hairstyle ideas
- Mother’s acessories – what do you need to complete the look
