Let’s try and answer those questions
We know that finding the perfect outfit can be difficult, especially on such an important occasion, so we’ve pulled together all our most frequently asked questions and style tips to help you make that choice.
How do I get the most from my shopping trip?
Before going to a boutique, search through magazines or look online for ideas. This will give you the starting point you need. Our designer lookbook of mother of the bride and groom outfits is a good place to begin.
The most important tip we can give you is to try lots of different dress styles. Go shopping armed with ideas and styles you have seen and tell the shop assistant what you have in mind. But never discount other dresses as you won’t know what looks good on until you try it. In our experience, 9 out of 10 ladies leave our boutique with something they would never have thought they would wear!
How do I make my outfit work from day to night?
Look for an outfit that can see you through from day to night. Many dress and jacket combinations transform into a different outfit once the jacket is taken off, giving you a fresh look for the evening.
How do I get the style and sizing right?
It can be tempting to shop for smaller sizes with the intention of losing weight, but why put yourself under extra pressure? If you want to lose weight, buy the dress that fits perfectly at that time and have it altered closer to the time. Remember, it’s easy to take a dress in but not always possible to take it out.
If you are unsure of what style of dress to go for, trends can be a great way to get inspired. But trend shopping doesn’t always get results. One of the most important tips for mother of the bride outfits is to find a shape and colour that suits you, regardless of what’s ‘in’. It’s very important to shop for your body shape, as everyone is different.
What if I have a more curvy figure?
The golden rule for complementing a curvy figure is ensuring that the jacket to go with the dress or trousers is long enough to extend past the hips. This transforms the silhouette to be more slender and streamlined. Additionally, ruching, pleats and layered fabric are great for hiding imperfections. Lower necklines and lightweight, floaty fabrics such as lace and chiffon can also be very flattering.
What if I’m petite, will I have less choice?
For petite women, the secret lies in accentuating the best attributes of your figure by wearing a shorter jacket. This creates a flattering silhouette. Slightly shorter dress lengths, high heels, peplum shapes, three-quarter sleeves and slim-cut outfits at or just below the knee can all help elongate your figure. The classic shift dress is also a great option, especially paired with a lightweight jacket or wrap. We stock a wide range of petite outfits to help you choose the perfect one.
Do I need a hat or fascinator and how do I choose?
Many customers think they don’t suit hats, but that’s usually because they haven’t been properly fitted before. A specialist boutique offers a wide range of styles to suit different face shapes and outfits. At Nigel Rayment, we are milliners by trade and are experienced in helping women find the perfect headpiece, from statement hats to elegant fascinators and hatinators.
Fascinators and hatinators often come with a band, which is designed to be part of the look. We encourage women to embrace it, but if you prefer it hidden, your hairdresser can suggest styles to conceal the band.
Should I match with the bridal party colours?
Finding an outfit that works with bridal colours can be tricky, especially if the chosen shades don’t suit your complexion or style. Our advice is to consider complementary lighter or darker tones that you know suit you well. Liaise with the wedding party, but remember many couples now prefer a more relaxed approach to colour coordination.
Choosing a versatile base colour, such as navy or a neutral, and picking up wedding colours in accessories like hats, bags and shoes can give you more flexibility and an outfit you’ll wear again.
Muted shades can be just as striking as bold colours when chosen correctly, and we’re always happy to help you find the perfect tone for your complexion.
The wedding’s abroad – should that mean a different style of outfit?
For overseas or high-summer weddings, comfort and style go hand in hand. Lightweight dresses with lace jackets, capes or wraps that can be removed are ideal, as are soft sleeves for extra coverage.
We offer a great range of flattering and breathable outfits designed specifically for warmer climates, so you can stay cool and stylish.
Will I have to sacrifice comfort for looks?
No matter how glamorous an outfit is, if you’re not comfortable, you won’t feel like yourself. That’s why it’s important to try lots of options and choose something that reflects your personal style. At Nigel Rayment, many of our outfits are designed to balance elegance with ease.
We also offer an alterations service, so if something is almost perfect, we can help tailor it to give you both the look and comfort you want.
I want to make sure my arms, tummy or legs are covered – can you help?
Absolutely. We all have areas we’re self-conscious about, and our collections include figure-flattering shapes, soft sleeves, waterfall jackets and many other thoughtful design features. Our experienced stylists are always happy to share their advice to help you feel confident and glamorous.
