Dressing the parents: A fashion guide for the big day  

Careful planning goes into the wedding attire for the bride and groom, but what about the parents of the bridal couple?
This is also a huge event in parents’ lives, and they should look the part.

Mother of the bride and groom
You should take the time to choose a fabulous and memorable wedding outfit.

Use the bride as your guide
Let the bride-to-be become your first point of contact in your wedding outfit. She can guide you on the style, theme and wedding colour palette.

This will help keep you focused when browsing for options. Ask the bride about the dress code, and if you are unsure, show her your options. It is an important day when you want to look the part, but it is not for you to outshine the bride.

Grab inspiration from the bridal party
If you are still unsure, look at the bridal party attire. This will give you a good idea of style and colours. Traditionally, the mother of the bride should complement the bridal party. It does not have to match but looks good as a unit.

If you have something custom-made, ask for a fabric swatch and mood board from the bridal couple. Our top tip is not to wear a shade that resembles the bride’s wedding gown.

Keep it classic
Keeping it chic and classic is the best advice. It will compliment you and will remain tasteful and trendy for years to come.

Do not wear a too-revealing or an outfit choice that will raise eyebrows for all the wrong reasons. Opt for a colour or fabric choice that is chapel-ready and pre-approved by the bride and groom-to-be.

Depending on the dress code, you can opt for a black tie or a chic summer dress with a matching jacket. Finish your look with the most beautiful accessories, bag and stylish shoes.

You want to look timeless and impressionable. After all, you are one of the most important guests.

Father of the bride and groom
Dads are not excluded from the dress code memo.

Use the groom and groomsmen as a reference
It is important to look dapper on the day of the wedding. This means a tailored suit and perfect accessories to ensure you look the part.

Take a fashion cue from the groom and groomsmen
Traditionally, the fathers of the bridal couple should align with the groom and his party. Dads do not need to be identical – just similar.

In theory, if the groom is wearing a tuxedo, the Dads should wear one too. Use the dress code listed on the invite as a reference pointer. Also, do not overshadow or outshine the groom.

Accessories matter
Complete your look with matching accessories that complement the bridal party – a beautiful tie or bowtie, matching socks, smart shoes, cufflinks and pocket squares. Grooms-to-be, consider purchasing or renting dad’s outfit when you do yours.

The early bird catches the worm
Sometimes the emphasis is placed on the mothers rather than the fathers and that means the wedding attire for your dad can get left to the last minute. Make sure you leave enough time to get his wedding attire sorted – especially if you are opting for a custom suit, leave enough time for tailoring.

Don’t be afraid to gently nudge your parents in the right direction if you foresee a fashion disaster. Remember, your images will last for years; make sure they are picture-perfect.

• Content supplied by Granny Mouse

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