Our pick of outfits for mother of the bride and groom and VIP guests will ensure you dazzle on the day – whether this is a traditional wedding or a glamorous evening affair
Black-tie sparkle
Adrianna Papell’s new collection includes a fantastic range of gowns suitable for black-tie wedding or cocktail party affair. We love the full-length numbers with on-trend details such as lace necklines, beading and brocade. UK stockists include John Lewis. johnlewis.com
Buttoned up
This classic white knee-length Marnie coat-dress is from Suzannah. Made of lightweight summer wool trimmed and lined with silk, it features mother-of-pearl buttons and a detachable grosgrain bow belt is an optional extra. Shown here in cream, it can also be made-to-order in powder blue, cosmetic pink or navy. From £1,600; suzannah.com
Golden glamour
Perfect for a mother of the bride, this refined pale blue dress from John Charles features a gold lace detail at the neckline to enable the outfit to transition from day to evening. A neat bolero jacket in the same pale blue fabric is available. Stockists include Nigel Rayment’s London and Manchester stores, where you’ll also find a great selection of co-ordinating hats. nigelraymentboutique.co.uk
Sixties chic
Channelling the glamour of Jackie O, this understated two-piece from Joyce Young is made to measure in stretch jacquard, or you can order the same model in silk in a range of 22 colours. The wide-necked top is removed to reveal a simple sleeveless shift dress with bow waist. Bespoke made-to-order hats can be matched to the outfit at Joyce Young’s London and Glasgow boutiques. joyceyoungcollections.co.uk
Let it flow
We just love Zaeem Jamal’s elegant occasion pieces – perfect for destination or evening weddings or, come to that, a bit of honeymoon glamour for the bride. This sophisticated Olive Cowl Gown is made of silk crepe and features a wide side slit. A separate belt with hand-embroidered motif is supplied with the gown so you can adapt it to suit the occasion. £1,000; zaeemjamal.com
Back to black
Emma Hunt London’s Little Black Dress collection is a real find for weddings and other red-carpet events. The elegant short dresses come in a variety of styles, including shifts and plunge back designs. We love this Bailey design, featuring a champagne silk satin slip with beaded lace overlay and tulip sleeves. Made to order, it costs from £850; emmahunt.co.uk
Long line
This elegant Joyce Young dress features a longer line slim skirt and the removable beaded overtop provides extra coverage. Available in a flattering and on-trend grape shade, it is made to order in her own Scottish atelier and available through London and Glasgow boutiques. joyceyoungcollections.co.uk
Silk dressing
Super simple custom-made dresses are Katherine Hooker’s forte and she offers a year-round tailoring service to create a perfectly fitted dress to match the occasion. Every dress is handmade in London and fabric options include silk, cashmere, tweed and linen. You can add in custom-made trims or top off the dress with one of her elegant fitted coats. katherinehooker.com
Femme fatale
This Fatal Black Italian silk gown is from London-based designer Jessica Choay. Featuring lace inserts, a side split and low back with crossover straps, it’s the last word in glamour for a smart ballroom or destination wedding. The same gown is also available in white silk. £750; jessicachoay.com
Sequins to go
This Wonder by Jenny Packham long crepe gown for David’s Bridal features sequin flowers and illusion panelling over neckline and sleeves, making it a glamorous choice for a winter party; £246 davidsbridal.com
