When it comes to wedding day style, the bride may be the star of the show, but there’s no denying the special role of the mother of the bride.
Finding an outfit that’s both sophisticated and complementary to the overall aesthetic is one thing, but adding the perfect jewellery is another layer altogether. That’s where pearls come in.
Renowned for their timeless appeal, pearls bring an effortless elegance to any look and offer a meaningful way for mothers to mark this important day. In this guide, we’ll explore everything from the best styles to selecting the ideal set to suit the mother of the bride’s unique look.
Why Pearls Are the Perfect Choice for the Mother of the Bride
There’s something undeniably classic about pearls. Worn by icons from Grace Kelly to Audrey Hepburn, pearls have a long history of symbolising grace and wisdom. And what better sentiment for a mother on her daughter’s wedding day? Pearls are both timeless and versatile, fitting seamlessly with almost any outfit or dress colour.
What makes pearls particularly special is their ability to add a touch of sophistication without overpowering the overall look. They radiate elegance, and their soft shimmer flatters every complexion. Whether your style leans towards traditional or modern, pearls effortlessly complement both subtle and bold fashion choices, allowing mothers to feel both beautifully dressed and appropriately understated.
Types of Pearl Jewellery Sets to Consider
With such a variety of bridal pearl jewellery styles available, there’s a set for every personality and taste. Here are a few favourites to consider for the big day:
Classic Single-Strand Necklaces and Stud Earrings
For mothers who love a timeless, understated look, you can’t go wrong with a single-strand necklace paired with pearl stud earrings. This classic combination is effortlessly chic, lending an air of sophistication without competing with the dress. A single-strand necklace sits elegantly around the neck, adding just the right amount of sparkle. Paired with simple stud earrings, it’s the perfect choice for those wanting an elegant, refined look.
Multi-Strand or Layered Pearl Sets
If a more dramatic look is desired, multi-strand or layered pearl sets can make a stunning statement. These sets often feature multiple strands of pearls draped at different lengths, which adds a luxurious feel to the outfit. Layered pearls work especially well with dresses that have clean, simple lines, as they add texture and depth to the overall look. This style can be perfect for mothers who enjoy a bit of glamour and want their jewellery to have a presence without stealing the spotlight.
Drop Earrings and Pendant Necklaces
For a more contemporary take, consider drop earrings or a delicate pendant necklace featuring pearls. Drop earrings offer movement and a slightly more modern look, especially when paired with a pendant necklace that sits beautifully against the neckline. This style brings in a touch of elegance while keeping the look fresh and updated—a lovely choice for mothers with a fashion-forward flair.
Pearl Bracelets
Sometimes, all that’s needed is a subtle touch on the wrist. A pearl bracelet, whether single or stacked, adds an elegant accent to the overall ensemble. Ideal for dresses with short or three-quarter sleeves, a pearl bracelet can be a beautiful finishing touch that completes the look without overwhelming it.
Choosing Pearls to Complement the Mother of the Bride’s Style
When selecting pearl jewellery, it’s important to consider not just the outfit but also the personality and style of the wearer. A few key points can help guide the choice:
Consider Dress Style and Neckline
Pearl jewellery is incredibly versatile, but pairing it with the right neckline can truly enhance the look. For example, a single-strand necklace complements V-neck and sweetheart necklines beautifully, while a longer, layered strand might be more suited to a scoop or boat neck. A pendant necklace can add sophistication to a high-neck dress, while drop earrings are particularly lovely with an off-the-shoulder or sleeveless dress.
Colour and Undertone
Pearls are available in a range of colours, from classic white and ivory to subtle pinks, silvers, and even dark, mysterious blacks. When choosing a set, consider the tone of the dress and the wearer’s complexion. Soft white pearls have a classic appeal, while pink or champagne-toned pearls can add warmth to the overall look, especially if the dress features neutral or earthy tones. For a modern, striking appearance, black pearls offer a sophisticated contrast that’s still timeless.
Personal Style
Every mother of the bride has her unique sense of style, and it’s worth embracing when choosing jewellery for the big day. For those who favour a classic look, a single strand or traditional stud earrings may be just the thing. If she leans toward the bold, a layered pearl necklace or striking drop earrings can add flair while staying elegant. Ultimately, the right jewellery should make her feel her best—polished, comfortable, and fully herself on this special occasion.
Coordinating with the Bride and Bridal Party
The mother of the bride has a unique role to play, and her look should feel cohesive without overshadowing the bride or bridal party. Coordinating jewellery choices can add to the sense of unity on the day, whether through subtle colour matching or complementary styles.
If the bride or bridal party is also wearing pearls, consider choosing a slightly different shade or style. For example, if the bridal party is in classic white pearls, the mother of the bride might opt for champagne or rose-tinted pearls to create a soft contrast while still harmonising with the theme. If the overall look of the bridal party is understated, a simpler, classic pearl set is ideal. However, if the bridal party features bold or elaborate jewellery, a multi-strand necklace or a more distinctive design could be a tasteful way for the mother of the bride to mirror the style while still standing out.
Finding Quality Pearls
Not all pearls are created equal, and knowing what to look for can ensure the jewellery feels as luxurious as it looks. Here are a few essentials for choosing high-quality pearls:
- Lustre: High-quality pearls should have a deep, reflective lustre that gives them their characteristic glow. The better the lustre, the more radiant the pearls will appear.
- Surface Quality: Ideally, pearls should be smooth with minimal blemishes. Some natural imperfections are common, but excessive blemishes can detract from the beauty of the piece.
- Shape: Perfectly round pearls are often the most sought-after and can give a more traditional look. However, slightly irregular shapes, known as baroque pearls, offer a unique, modern twist while still maintaining elegance.
When buying pearls, it’s also worth considering the differences between natural, cultured, and imitation pearls. Cultured pearls, grown with human assistance, offer a blend of beauty and affordability, while natural pearls are rare and typically more costly. Imitation pearls are generally more affordable but lack the lustre and durability of authentic pearls, so they may not be the best choice for such a significant occasion.
Final Touches: Styling Tips for the Big Day
Once the perfect set of pearls is chosen, the final touches can complete the look. When pairing accessories, it’s best to keep things simple to allow the pearls to take centre stage. Consider adding a subtle accessory like a brooch, shawl, or elegant clutch to tie the whole outfit together, while still letting the pearls be the standout element.
The choice of hairstyle and makeup can also play a role in highlighting the jewellery. For instance, an elegant updo or half-up style will showcase pearl earrings beautifully, while a low chignon can be the perfect backdrop for a pearl necklace. When it comes to makeup, keeping it soft and sophisticated will allow the natural radiance of the pearls to shine through.
More than an Accessory Decision
With their timeless elegance and natural beauty, pearls bring a sense of grace and poise to any outfit, helping mothers celebrate the occasion with style. Whether she favours classic simplicity or a touch of glamour, the right pearl set will make her feel every bit as cherished as the moment itself.
