A perfect balancing act

Beauty expert Teresa Fairminer knows how important it is to make sure make-up, hair and clothes work perfectly together for a special occasion, especially if there are photographers about.

"There are a few essentials for looking and feeling confident as the mother of the bride. Choose your whole outfit first in a colour you know is good for you; then gear your make-up to compliment the outfit," she says.

"Whatever you do, don't make the mistake of using bright eye shadows. You will look dated and brash. Most importantly your make-up has to last, as once the wedding starts time will just fly. Do a full make-up rehearsal at least two weeks before the big day to iron out any problems."

Teresa advises:

• Don't have a facial just before the big day as it can bring out zits.
• Avoid alcohol if it makes you hot and flushy.
• Dry hair first and ensure your face is cool before applying make-up.
• Apply foundation to the face using a sponge and remember to cover down to the neckline of your clothes.
• Then apply concealer over dark circles and remember that the shadow caused by a hat will accent rings under your eyes.
• Use cream blusher to create a glow, then a light dusting of face powder to set make-up, especially down the centre panel (shiny faces look even worse in photographs).
• Use matt browns, creams and greys on eyes - no blue, green or mauve.
• Use waterproof mascara - obvious but often forgotten.
• Keep shine for lips and use a lip liner to define the shape and make colour last - no hard lines, always blend the lip pencil across lips.

Condici
Classic Condici - the collection usefully includes hats to match their dress and skirt suits. www.condici.com, 0207 411 4382

Coterie
Another collection that usefully provides matching millinery - Coterie. www.frankusher.co.uk, 0207 629 9696

Gina Bacconi
Full-length elegance from Gina Bacconi.www.shubette.com, 0208 903 8377

GOLD by Michael H
Ultra feminine skirt suit from Gold by Michael H. www.michaelh.ie, 0207 636 2789

Gray & Osbourn
Choose a colour that makes you look good - Frank Usher three-piece suit from Gray & Osbourn. www.grayandosbourn.co.uk, 08702 400 030

Ispirato
Contemporary occasion-wear from the new Ispirato collection. www.ispirato.co.uk, 0207 411 4382

Jacques Vert
Jacques Vert can be a lifesaver for brides' mothers, providing co-ordinating clothes and accessories. www.jacques-vert.co.uk, 0191 521 3888

Karen Gillam
Dress code for ladies under 5ft 3in and sizes 6-24 from Karen Gillam. www.karengillam.co.uk, tel. 0845 0035049

Kaleidoscope
Dress like a goddess in Kaleidoscope's divine dress. www.kaleidoscope.co.uk, 0844 556 3080

Maria Coca
Top-notch, exquisitely detailed Maria Coca from Spain is perfect for the mother of the bride. www.partnersinfashion.co.uk, 020 7636 4207

Peter Martin
Chic suit from the Peter Martin collection. www.petermartingroup.com, 01538 399141

Though she might never let her daughter know it, every mother of the bride also has a nagging doubt - will she get her outfit right too?

When you do go shopping take along an honest friend.