We understand the confusion… two days a year dedicated to celebrating women and we put them within a couple of weeks of each other, who decided that was a good idea?! There are definite similarities: both days are in spring, both focus on women and both encourage gifting but they’re actually very different. It’s a difference that matters. Everybody will benefit from knowing more about each and the lovely reasons behind them. We’ll try and clear it up for you here.

The Basics: What do Mother’s Day and International Women’s Day Mean?

Mother’s Day – It is also known as Mothering Sunday, celebrated here in the UK on the fourth Sunday of Lent, so it changes date each year. Historically the day that everybody would return to their ‘Mother Church’ also known as ‘Going A-Mothering’. Servants would usually get this day off and return home to visit family, hence the change to focus on Mums and family. Mother’s Day celebrates Mothers or maternal figures specifically. In 2026 it’s on Sunday 15th March in the UK.

International Women’s Day – Occurs on the 8th March every year globally. Dating back to the first National Women’s Day in New York City in 1909, an International Women’s Day was proposed the year after, with the first IWD celebration taking place the year after in 1911. It came about to honour the efforts and encourage progress of women’s suffrage, workplace equality and political representation. It ended up resting on the 8th March after Russian women protested on this date demanding ‘Bread and Peace’ during WW1, resulting in Russian women gaining the right to vote. IWD celebrates ALL amazing women throughout history and the present day and acknowledging the ongoing women’s rights struggles and progress yet to be made.

Who Does Each Day Celebrate?

For Mother’s Day the clue is in the name! Mother’s or maternal figures of all kinds. The day dedicated to looking after the women you couldn’t do without, who brought you into this world and supported you through life. Think Mum’s, Step-Mums, Grandmothers, Aunties who’ve filled the void of a Mum or anybody else who fills that role for you.

International Women’s Day is the most incredible day dedicated to celebrating every woman who’s had an influence on you in your life! Family you couldn’t do without, friends who share life’s ups and downs, colleagues who inspire, encourage and support you. It’s for the Mum who’s everything to everyone, the sister who swears she’s never having kids and the friend who’s climbing the corporate ladder: All women are worthy of praise. It’s also the day to make sure women through history get the recognition and appreciation they deserve! The incredible women who contributed to scientific discoveries but weren’t named on papers or the women who suffered so we could vote, go to school and have the power of choice! 

Do You Need to Buy Gifts for Both?

Well, you don’t have to but it’s a great excuse! Who doesn’t love a reason to spoil each other rotten?

For Mother’s Day think personal and sentimental. Funny gifts work personally, especially inside jokes that make you all howl!

Shop our full collection of Funny Mother’s Day gifts.

For International Women’s Day think sassy, empowering and meaningful gifts with attitude! Small gifts with a personal message, now is the time to tell the women in your life just how brilliant they are.

Browse our International Women’s Day Gifts Collection.

Can One Gift Work for Both?

Of course! If you’re lucky enough to be like us, the most inspiring woman in your life is your Mum! Even if you aren’t related, a strong and supportive woman could easily be the most influential person in your life. Funny socks, sassy stationery, crafts with attitude and empowering books are all amazing choices for both occasions!

Shop our full Girl Power Gift Collection.

So, whether you’re treating your Mum, friend, colleague or just every woman you know and admire, we have the perfect gift to make her smile!

Don’t forget to browse Mother’s Day vs International Women’s Day gifts with Laughing Sisters.

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Lots of love,

Natalie & Steph

The Laughing Sisters