Harriet Sperling's mother, Mary Sanders, showcased British fashion at her daughter's wedding to Peter Phillips on Saturday, wearing a bespoke ensemble by designer Lalage Beaumont, a favorite of royal style icons like Princess Catherine and Zara Tindall.
Mary Sanders turned to luxury British designer Lalage Beaumont for a couture-inspired look. The designer exclusively told the Daily Express: "It was very exciting to be asked to dress Harriet's mother for this very happy occasion. Having understood that the wedding was to be fairly low-key, I really enjoyed creating an elegant outfit suitable for a beautiful country church and the festivities afterwards."
The Design Brief
The wedding took place at All Saints Church, Kemble, in Gloucester. The brief was to create a timeless yet practical look that would transition from a country church service to evening celebrations. Lalage felt confident in meeting the challenge.
The finished ensemble featured a bespoke version of the designer's Vicky coat paired with a matching shift dress. Lalage explained: "Mrs Sanders is quite petite and wanted a straight style, which leant itself to a bespoke version of our Vicky coat and a three-quarter-length sleeve shift dress underneath."
Fabric and Details
The coat was made from an exquisite silk-brocade woven exclusively for the brand, with a matching silk sateen dress. Finishing touches included cord edging and handmade frogging at the waist and cuffs, giving the outfit a unique, couture feel.
The color palette was carefully chosen. Rather than a bold statement shade, the focus was on elegance and understatement to complement the bridal party. "The brief was to find a colour that would not stand out too much and would blend with the bridesmaids," Lalage revealed. "The beautiful pewter-grey colour we selected suited her wonderfully."
Signature Style
The dress-and-coat combination is a signature of Lalage Beaumont, popular among mothers of the bride for its sophistication and practicality. "The combination is both practical—dealing with a long day that may include a drafty country church, a formal reception, and dancing—and makes them feel special," Lalage said. "The classic dress-and-coat combination offers the perfect balance of elegance and practicality, ensuring the mother of the bride looks impeccably tailored and feels comfortable from morning vows to the final dance."
Royal Following
Lalage Beaumont has become synonymous with timeless occasionwear and British craftsmanship. Before launching her label, she honed her skills at prestigious fashion houses like Mulberry. The brand has a loyal royal following: Princess Catherine has carried her handbags, and Zara Tindall was spotted with an elegant clutch at Cheltenham this year.
For Lalage, dressing the mother of the bride for such a special occasion was meaningful. "It is always a pleasure to feel part of such a special day for any family. To dress the mother of the bride for a wedding is incredibly special, and we are thrilled to have played a part in such a happy day."
Reflecting on the finished outfit, what stood out most was not the couture detailing or luxurious fabrics, but something simpler: "I just love how well it suits her."
