Shopping for a mother of the bride or groom outfit can be difficult. Not only are you often shopping a season ahead of the one you're in, but it can also feel like your options are an endless sea of dress coats and shift dresses. And while we've nothing against those (hello Royal Family!), we know lots of you want something a little bit different.

We already have inspiration guides and lists of shops for mothers to check out, so today we're rounding up 14 chic, unique and modern wedding outfits that mothers of a bride or groom can shop right now.

1. Brown Thomas have a selection of these Chanel-inspired jackets and cardigans by Balmain, and they're versatile enough to be styled with dresses, skirts and pants for a chic statement mother of the bride or groom look.

2. The bright berry pink hue of this Chi Chi London dress from ASOS would put colour in anyone's cheeks! This high low hemline is just the right mix of modern and formal, and the perfect excuse to show off some fabulous shoes!

3. The gorgeous green tone of this Coast dress is super flattering (and perfect for a winter wedding), while the shape is so elegant and timeless, don't you think?

4. With the rule against mums wearing white gone out the window, the trick is to rock something modern and tailored, rather than bridal. Pairing your look with a grey blazer like this chic number from Ted Baker is an occasion-appropriate way to style white.

5. This pale grey pencil skirt dress from Reiss is already so stylish, but the button detail adds a little interest and takes it to the next level. Add a headpiece and you're done!

6. Separates have never been cooler for brides and bridesmaids, and they work for mothers of the bride and groom too - especially as a way to find an outfit you'll rewear again and again. This gorgeous flared leather skirt from Jaeger would look gorgeous with a simple top and some jewellery, a luxurious silk shirt, or something more embellished and dressy.

7. Most mothers of the bride overlook the idea of a jumpsuit, but it's an instant way to add a contemporary spin to your ensemble. Whether you go for a wide leg or a tapered pant, short sleeves or a low neckline, there are so many stylish options available. This bright jumpsuit from Phase Eight with lace embellishment is a great starting point.

8. Grey might terrify some women, but we think it's an impossibly stylish colour on almost every complexion (especially those with snow white locks!). The high neck and lace bodice on this dress from ASOS is so elegant, and this one is perfect for taller ladies too!

9. Looking for a splash of colour in your mother of the bride look? This pretty silk fit and flare Reiss dress has a pattern that would be positively dreamy for a spring or summer wedding and could tie in with lots of different colour palettes.

10. The luxe cornflower hue and the mixed textures of this cuffed Ted Baker dress are so beautiful - paired with some millinery, this would make such a stylish, yet sophisticated choice for a mother of the bride or groom.

11. We are suckers for sequins around here, and this green sequin dress from LK Bennet is just the right mix of demure and dancefloor-ready! Got a festive wedding to go to? This is your dress!

12. We're taking a lesson from the Meghan Markle stylebook with this one, this white tuxedo dress from Karen Millen might be a little daring for some, but if you're looking for something cool and contemporary this is definitely one to consider. Business in the top, party in the bottom!

13. So many mothers of the bride and groom tell us they're looking for something less formal and more reflective of their everyday style. And this yellow patterned wrap dress by Hope & Ivy on ASOS fuses eclectic vibes with polished style. (It would work well with flat shoes too!)

14. Vanity Fair is our go-to for mother of the bride or groom style in Ireland, with a who's who of fabulous designers and beautiful pieces. Our pick from their current offering has to be this bold two-piece by Aideen Bodkin - Jackie O, eat your heart out!

Looking for more Mother of the Bride style inspiration? We've got you sorted! 

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