Recycling mother of the bride outfits...don't mind if 'I do!'

The MOB strikes again…

As the mother of the bride, (MOB) you must have been over the moon to celebrate your daughter’s nuptials. To witness and be there for your daughter on her special and much anticipated day will have been one of your proudest moments. It’s true all eyes will have been on the bride BUT it’s also true some eyes will have been on you too, the mother of the bride.

For this reason, you chose something sophisticated and elegant, a flattering frock with harmonising hues that made you a ‘sight for sore eyes’ rather than simply… a sight! It was the perfect outfit; perfectly chosen, perfectly matching, perfectly worn, even if you do say so yourself. A perfect ménage à trois: hat, shoes and bag to die for.

The big day has been and gone. Now, gazing at the photos and lapping up all the compliments...it seems such a waste to not be able to wear it again. This brings to the all-important question: Can a MOB outfit ever strike again? Do you fear it being too MOBish?

It is a tricky situation. You can’t upstage either the mother of the bride or the mother of the groom at another wedding.

Here are some guidelines:

1. If the outfit is not over the top… go for it, wear it again minus the hat or fascinator.

2. Don’t be afraid to ask… If you are close with either person, you could mention to them that you were thinking of wearing the outfit you wore. You’ll be able to gauge by their stony face whether it is a good idea!

3. Wear the accessories… We all know the lengths we can go (and have gone) to find matching accessories! Recycle your accessories such as your shoes, bag or hat and perhaps buy another dress. Sorted.

4. Mix n Match or Pick n Mix… If it was an outfit with a dress and jacket, again perhaps think about dropping the jacket and opting for a shawl, cape, another jacket.

If this doesn’t work, head for Ladies Day at the Races…a day of upstaging to look forward to! Go forth MOBs…