The Best Outfits for Every Mother’s Day Celebration

Look 1: Posh Brunch, Modern Look. If you’re going to indulge in a new outfit to celebrate the day, we believe in investing in something that you will get plenty of use out of after Mother’s Day has passed. And, ladies, this is THE dress. From Veronica Beard, the modern-fitting line was started a few years ago by two women focused on versatile, wearable key pieces for a woman on-the-go. And they pay attention to every detail to ensure a wonderful fit. It is beyond flattering, with ruching in all the right places to conceal any imperfections (and that indulgent brunch). The asymmetrical buttons – with hidden snaps in between to prevent gaping - gives this shirtdress a modern feel that is simply timeless. And the cotton fabric has a touch of stretch that only adds to the comfort and flattering look of this silhouette. The cap sleeves accent the shoulders to bring out the best in our arms (even if yours don’t look like Michelle Obama’s). Because of the ruching and button detail, the length is very flexible - working from above the knee to midi-length, so it’s great for almost every height (and can be shortened by your favorite tailor, too). In black, there are tons of ways to wear it. For today’s topic, we’re popping it with some navy and yellow color to punch it up for a cheery Mother’s Day look. But truly any color will work, so it’s easy to update season after season. Of course, simple black or nude classic pumps will always complete this timeless dress, as will pops of white for a graphic look. When you calculate how many opportunities you will have to wear this dress – from brunch to work to dinner, you will feel like you’re saving money on this one.

The dress we're highlighting doesn’t need much to complete it, but this Elizabeth & James chunky gold and blue chain is just the right length and statement to be the perfect compliment, especially when we add the shoes and bag to tie all these colors together. The combination of black and deep blue is so chic, and this necklace will add style to any outfit (and any neckline), in its modern shorter length.

These shoes are simply stunning, and just the thing to add a subtle pop of color to a posh brunch look. They bring together the black and navy, and have the perfect warm weather feel with the deep yellow suede strap that is not only fresh looking, but also plays up the gold of the necklace. The cone heel and wonderfully luxe leather and suede make these shoes quite comfortable. If you’re not familiar with Derek Lam 10 Crosby, Derek Lam is a beautifully modern designer line, and this is his more accessible and affordable contemporary line, still packed with all the same detail and quality that Derek Lam is known for.

Any black bag you already have will work with this outfit, but we think a special celebration calls for a special bag, one that really finishes this look perfectly. Lauren Mirkin’s embossed lambskin clutch highlights the golden yellow pops in this outfit that it gives it a celebratory feel, perfect for Mother’s Day. It’s neutral enough, using both black and brown in the print, to give you plenty of other opportunities to wear it, even for a casual evening out. Besides, we couldn’t resist the great sale price.

Look 2: Posh Brunch, Timeless Look. A classically styled linen shirtdress will never disappoint, especially when it’s from Lafayette 148 New York, who gives it an upscale feel and easy fit that makes every figure look great and feel comfortable – whether you are a size 2 or 16. Linen can be stiff, but Lafayette’s is not only soft, it has some spandex in it, for truly luxurious comfort. The shirttail detail along the hem is longer in the back, an added perk that alleviates any worries about bending over or sitting and having your dress ride up. The deep green is so flattering on every skin tone – and it’s very current for the season’s military inspirations. The contrasting detail along the buttons highlights the elegance and upscale feel of this dress. On its own, it’s a wonderful staple for your wardrobe that will transition from a celebratory Mother’s Day brunch to any daytime party, lovely dinner, or day at the office…especially when you add some of our suggested pieces to complete this dress.

While the dress we're featuring is beautiful on its own, adding an easy layer will protect you from the air conditioning in a restaurant and conceal your arms, if that’s a concern. The gold color of this silk Lafayette 148 New York cardigan plays perfectly with the deep green of the dress, coordinating with the earthy tone and giving it some levity for daytime. The easy fit, v-neckline, and hip length style will layer over the dress’s cinched waist and collared neckline smoothly. And at this sale price, you’ll love reaching for this sweater with any trousers or pencil skirt all season long. Lafayette also offers an open stitch ivory topper that will look equally elegant, and a bit dressier.

The collared neckline of the dress doesn’t need a strong necklace, but a great pair of drop earrings accent it wonderfully. This Kendra Scott pair use a beautiful summery brown stone that is the ideal accent to the forest green and gold earth tones of this outfit. They are about 2” long, which you can see on a model through the ‘shop it’ button, are bold without being overpowering and won’t hit the collar of the dress. They give the look a festive and playful feel, ideal to celebrate any mom (including you).

When you’re not wearing the coordinating sweater (or when you have the sleeves stylishly pushed up), a statement bracelet with a wood focus is the just the conversation starter to play with all the other components of this outfit. Your jewelry doesn’t need to match, and the gold/wood combination of this J.Crew cuff coordinates with the pale brown and gold earrings with all the effortless style you want to evoke. If a statement necklace is just a must for you, replace the earrings and bracelet with this amazing deep yellow and coordinating green long necklace (and wear your cardigan open).

Donald J Pliner knows a thing or two about combining comfort and style – the key components to any good shoe, especially heels. While these sandals are all women, they have a touch of rougher edge that is perfect with the shirtdress and jewelry accents. The adjustable straps, including the ankle one, make these sandals even more comfortable than most. And of course, the color combination and detailed center panel make them a sure winner. They look beautiful with white and pale grey too, giving you many more opportunities to wear these beauties.

What’s left? Your bag, of course. Diane von Furstenberg’s cork clutch couldn’t be more perfect. As we often talk about, your bag and shoes don’t need to match. The natural cork, with gold veining, accents the pale shades and gold hardware of the shoes – and the jewelry we’re showing. The wood of the bracelet, cork of this bag, and embossed center leather of the shoes all work with the beautiful linen of the dress. While you may think the cork would be stiff, this bag is lined and open/closes with ease. And being a neutral cork color, it goes with everything. You’ll reach for this gem – that easily fits your phone and other essentials – all season long, whether it’s for casual drinks or another festive celebration like a day wedding. We also love switching out the fabric belt of the dress with this adorable (and super well-priced) coordinating slim cork belt. It’s the perfect finish to lighten up the look for brunch.

Look 3: Home Gathering, Modern Look. This J.Crew jumpsuit’s lyocell fabric is super soft and comfortable with an effortless drape that can be dressed up for a night out with a great pair of heels. But because of the soft comfy fabric and easy silhouette, it makes an absolutely ideal outfit for a casual home get together, too. The navy color gives it a denim feel, and like your favorite jeans, this is really no-fuss. The wrap style neckline is actually faux, so you don’t have to worry about it opening up or layering something underneath. It does allow for a great necklace or scarf, though. The wide sash and hook-and-bar closure at the waist provide a nice break in the jumpsuit that is really flattering, giving definition at the waist that slims the hips and doesn’t elongate the rear view, either. J.Crew’s modern fit and relaxed styling make this a piece you’ll be happy to wear all day long.

One of the perks about the jumpsuit in this outfit is its versatility. Your accessories can change from casual to dressy in a snap. This Chan Luu leather wrap bracelet adds a subtle pop of color, perfect for a Sunday get together. The stone colors and distressed leather make it one of our favorite ways to incorporate a bit of boho chic in to your wardrobe that is appropriate and stylish with this outfit, as well as jeans, shorts or your favorite casual dress. You can even layer in this feather wrap bangle, to play up the look and give it additional “casual cool” vibe. If you love bold earrings, these will play into the look seamlessly.

These cool KG KURT GEIGER wedges are sold out everywhere, so we were excited to track them down for this outfit. They are the perfect shade of saddle tan leather, with a peep toe that compliments the soft drape of the jumpsuit’s pants that hit just above the ankle. Since it is almost the beginning of May, this is an easy transitional shoe that works whether you have a truly warm day or not. We also love these flat ankle-fringe sandals for a stylish boho finish. Both options will look great with cuffed up jeans and pants, casual dresses, and shorts all season long.

Mother’s Day weather can still be unpredictable in many parts of the country. And even if it is warm and beautiful, there’s a good chance you may be in and out of the air-conditioned house throughout the day, so a scarf is a must-have. And when you’re not preparing food, you will absolutely love snuggling up in this lightweight cashmere White + Warren scarf. It is cozy and soft, yet somehow not too warm at the same time. This is a special scarf that you will have for years, and you’ll take it with your everywhere. If it’s your day, this is a luxury you surely deserve. (And if you’re celebrating a special mom in your life, be sure to pick one up for her, too, or she may never forgive you.) A gauzy solid colored linen scarf from Love Quotes looks stylish, too, and you can certainly play with adding any color to this look. The great big size of both options provides a summer staple that can be worn around your neck or your shoulders. They’re great to have at the office, too, when the air conditioning really kicks in.

Look 4: Home Gathering, Timeless Look. This easy top is what casual days are made of. But it has all the style that just begs for some company so you can show it off. The loose fit and tunic styling of this Joie top gives the soft chambray fabric nice movement, while the white embroidery provides just enough shape to flatter…and lots of timeless style. We’re sending you to Joie’s site, where they offer free shipping and returns, so you can shop with ease.

We love these easy linen NYDJ pants for this top. We know, we know, there is some old rule about wearing white before Memorial Day. We don't buy into that, and luckily, the fashion industry as a whole has gotten over it, which is how we can find amazing white linen trousers that you can start wearing now. The wide leg is modern and fresh looking, giving you the option to dress them up or down. They come in a bunch of great colors (sand dollar would look great with this top, too) making them a truly essential wardrobe staple for the warmer days ahead. With NYDJ exclusive lift-tuck® technology, and a combination of lyocell and spandex to give the linen fabric a wonderfully soft feel and comfortable modern fit, you can really sit and enjoy a celebratory brunch. If you’re more of a jeans gal, a pair of dark denim or perfectly broken in pair will work with this top, too.

These Matt Bernson toe-ring sandals come in white, too, and they both work with this outfit perfectly, so you cannot go wrong. They are not only comfortable and stylish, you can easily slip them on and off if you’ll be going inside to the kitchen and outside to enjoy the day. The layered leather plays up the graphic white stitch of the Joie top, and brings a bit of interest to any outfit – all summer long. Go ahead, it's time to show off that well-deserved pedicure.

The 3/4-length sleeve of the top just calls for a little arm candy. This neutral set of 5 bracelets from Lacey Ryan brings the whole outfit together. You can wear 1 or all at the same time (which we love), and you’ll be able to wear this set of bracelets with everything, since the stones range from white to brown – all neutrals that look great with any warm weather favorites. Not only do they look good, natural stones have long been known to help bring balance to our lives, so this is a great opportunity to mix-and-match with the white clarity and blue tranquility bracelets. Every mom needs more clarity and tranquility, right? The earthy magic of the stones and colors highlight the embroidery in the top.