MUM’S THE WORD Mothers of the nearlyweds will likely be feeling the pressure. As the matriarchs of your respective families, eyes will be on them too as the traditional hosts and proud parents. They may feel under the kosh to represent themselves well on such a big day for you both. What’s more, if mum’s style is generally more laid back, she might be self-conscious or uncomfortable in occasionwear. The best thing to do is offer support and a helping hand with the fashion choices. Plus, a shopping trip together could prove to be a beautiful mother-and-daughter (or son) bonding experience. Offer plenty of reassurance and help her to feel a million dollars on the day. As women, we all have our body insecurities and your mum is likely no different, so help her to pick out something in a style she’s at home in, but elevated with an air of sophistication. If she hasn’t worn skirts since her school uniform, there’s no law that says she has to wear one on your wedding day. There are plenty of elegant trouser suits out there and she’ll look just as beautiful, feminine and smart. After all, separates are a girls best friend when it comes to finding the most flattering combination. The key is to complement the bridal party, not to compete with it. So, be aware of colour palettes, themes and what the rest of the squad is wearing. A key consideration also is the time of year. What fabrics will mum be most comfortable in? Soft, floaty dresses are better for the summer, versus something more structured or tailored for the colder months. It’s also worth thinking about what she’ll need throughout the whole day, such as a light jacket or bolero that can be removed once you come in from the photos, and put back on for the sparkler send off. Hats are synonymous with the mother-of-the-bride, but can be a bit of a palaver, not to mention expensive for the length of time mum is likely to have it on. But if her heart is set on it, then that’s what she should have. Alternatively, fascinators are super-smart and are easier to keep on all day. Accessories are the most fun part of putting an outfit together. They can be the star of the show, dressing up a simple outfit, or subtly complementing something more bold. Who doesn’t love a matching handbag and shoes combo? On that note, be sure to advise mum to ensure her footwear of choice is comfortable. She’ll be on her feet for a large portion of the day, mingling and welcoming long lost relations and dearly loved friends, so it’s important to make sure her feet still feel happy enough to join you on the dancefloor come the evening revelries. Alexandra Horne from Jessica Kennedy in Canterbury (www.jessica-kennedy.co.uk) offers some intel on the ladies occasionwear designs coming in this year: “I’d say the top colours for this season are pastels, such as Provence rose and taupe, pinks, silver angelica and silver. A lot of these pair beautifully with navy, in particular alabaster and rose work well with this shade of blue and are showing up in new designs. “The go-to look right now is the tailored silhouette as well as floaty, slightly off-the-shoulder dresses. “My advice would be to get in there early, find your boutique and buy. As right now you have the choice being early in the season.” All imges on this page courtesy of Jessica Kennedy 71 DRESSING THE BRIDAL PARTY
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