What To Wear To Mother’s Day Brunch over 40 (No Matter How You are Celebrating)

If there’s one time of year I know I’m going to brunch, it’s Mother’s Day. Over the years, I’ve seen this day evolve—right along with my role as a mom. What started as big, fancy outings with the whole extended family when the kids were little has slowly shifted into more intimate, casual gatherings. And now that my kids are in their 20s, our Mother’s Day traditions look a little different again.

But one thing hasn’t changed: I still like to wear something special. Even if we’re just having scones and tea in the kitchen, it’s still a moment to celebrate being a mom—and to feel good doing it.

So whether you’re headed to a formal buffet, a cozy café, or staying home in your slippers (but the stylish kind), here’s what to wear for Mother’s Day brunch at every stage, especially if you’re 40, 50, or 60+.

What to Wear for Mother’s Day Brunch over 40 (No Matter How You are Celebrating)

pink dress |  sandals |  floral earrings |necklace

1. The Fancy Brunch (Big Buffet, Extended Family, Mimosas Flowing)

This is the kind of brunch where you used to dress the kids up in matching outfits and remind everyone to be on their best behavior. You’re probably going to a beautiful hotel or country club, and even if it’s buffet-style, it feels like an event.

What to Wear:

• Chic Spring Dress – Think solid color or floral,  wrap, shirtdress, tiered dress, or shift dress in clear, happy hues like rose, periwinkle, coral, or mint. A midi length is elegant and age-friendly.
• Block Heel Sandals – Stylish and easy to walk in if there’s a bit of standing or walking. Go low for comfort and look modern with a midi.
• Statement Earrings + pretty bag – These little extras elevate the outfit without trying too hard. Gold Floral earrings say Mother’s Day.

Style Tip: A tailored jacket or cropped cardigan adds polish if the AC is blasting or you’re dining indoors.

blue striped shirt | white jeans | silver sandals | bag | hoop earrings

2. The Casual Café Brunch (Usually Just the Immediate Family and Grandma(s)

These became more common as the kids got older—still sweet and celebratory but more relaxed. You might be going to your favorite neighborhood spot where they know your order. It’s a less dressy Mother’s Day out than a fancy hotel brunch.

What to Wear:

• Elevated Jeans + a Pretty Blouse – Go for classy dark wash- straight-leg or wide-leg jeans or, even better,  white denim with a feminine top with lace, eyelet, a soft floral, or pretty soft print. This baby blue striped top ( above) had fine silver threads running through it to make it a touch special.
• Comfortable Flats or Mules – Chic but easy. I love these in silver. Less is more, and silver picks up on the silver on the top.
• Layer with a Light Cardigan or Blazer – Something colorful or pastel adds a spring touch. You could wear light yellow, pink or white with this.

Style Tip: Look for details like puffed sleeves, eyelet trim, or a ruffled neckline to keep the look feminine and special but unfussy. This top has beautiful puffed sleeves with feminine scalloped edges. So pretty, mom!

tiered sundress  | sandals | bracelet |earrings |

3. The At-Home Brunch (Pancakes in the Kitchen or on the Patio, Teacups on the Table)

This is where we are now. With the kids living on their own and having busy schedules—and elderly moms who can’t get out as easily (my mom is 91, and my mother-in-law is 96) —it’s become simpler and, honestly, more meaningful. My kids band together to cook bacon and eggs, tea and scones. We all sit around the kitchen table or have breakfast on the back porch by the pool if it’s nice out, enjoying each other’s company. No reservations, no stress.

What to Wear:

• Cheery sundress or Cute Pull-On Pants + Easy Knit Top or Soft Blouse – Try a pastel color, striped tee, or something with a cheerful pattern.
• Pretty House Slippers or flat sandals– Something that feels special but very relaxed.
• Add a Pop of Jewelry – Even just a pair of gold hoops or a simple pendant makes you feel dressed.

Style Tip: You don’t need to go all out, but a little effort goes a long way to make the day feel like a celebration.

More Mother’s Day Dresses

The Final Word for Moms!

However, if you’re spending Mother’s Day—out at a nice brunch or just relaxing at home—it’s still a moment to do something a little special for yourself. Putting on an outfit you feel good in is part of that.

It doesn’t have to be anything fancy. Just something that feels comfortable, put-together, and a little bit “you.”

Plans change, traditions shift, and life gets busy—but taking a minute to feel stylish and confident is always worth it.

Meet the author

Deborah Boland

Deborah, a former Fashion & Lifestyle TV host and Image Consultant, understands the style challenges women face in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. As the founder of Fabulous After 40, she helps women tweak their chic and embrace fashion with confidence—so they always look and feel amazing.

Learn More About Deborah Explore Her Latest Posts