Mother of the bride - choosing your colour

The most important thing about the mother of the bride or groom outfit you choose to wear for your daughter or son’s big day is that it's right for you – in terms of colour and style.

Trying to “blend in” with the wedding theme can become a matter of stress for many mums. Some want to make a statement, others want to look elegant but not stand out. Just because the bridesmaid dresses look amazing in gold, it doesn't mean the mums have to try to wear that colour as well when it really doesn't suit them.

If the bride and groom are keen to have their wedding colour-matched, think about having a suggestion of the main wedding colour in your outfit rather than wearing the same colour. If the wedding is colour-themed, printed dresses are a brilliant way of combining a hint of the key colour yet keeping your individuality as mother of the bride or groom.

Also, keep in mind that when it comes to the wedding photographs, the men in their dark black or grey suits (they have a lot less options!) help to break up the colours and the risk of any colour clashes.

Colour for the season

Each season you'll find a wide choice of colours for mothers of the bride and groom outfits. If subtle and sophisticated shades appeal, you'll have no problem with duck egg blues, vintage pinks and silver greys always featuring strongly. Tones of taupe, mocha and light gold are always a popular choice as they complement so many other colours for summer and winter weddings.

If you're keen to make a bold and bright statement, consider aqua blues, fuchsia pinks, purples and fresh lime greens - perfect for a summer wedding.

Can I wear black to a wedding? A frequent question and yes, this is an option. Striking black and white outfits are always popular and a timeless choice that never dates.

Whatever you decide, having an open mind when you come shopping is key to finding the right colour outfit. Step away from your comfort zone and you might be surprised at what you find makes you look a different person.

Colour analysis for mother of the bride

If you're unsure about what colours suit you, why not have your colours done as part of the wedding experience? The way this works is that a colour analysis expert will look at your skin and hair tone and analyse what colours suit you best. Finally rating the colours, your expert will advise you as to whether you can wear them top-to-toe or as statement colours. As part of the package, you receive a swatch book you can take shopping with you.

The team at Fab Frock are familiar with House of Colour analysis and we have each of the four swatch books here just in case you forget to bring yours with you.

Visit www.houseofcolour.co.uk to find your nearest consultant. A session costs about £120 but its money well spent and can transform your whole wardrobe over time. It can definitely make your clothes shopping easier by knowing exactly what colours suit you best so can focus in on these when you go shopping.

Whatever colour you choose, in the words of Mae West, "It's always better to be looked over than over-looked."