15 Elegant Tea Length Dresses for the Mother-of-the-Groom

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Mother of Groom Tea Length Dresses

Brides / Kevin Liang

Your son getting married is a truly momentous occasion, and naturally you’ll want to look your best to celebrate him and his soon-to-be spouse. For this, a tea length dress is an excellent choice, perfectly toeing the line between laid-back and formal. If you’re unsure what a tea length dress is to begin with, fashion stylist Gabriela Rosales defines it for us: “A tea length dress is a dress that falls between knee and lower calf or ankle length, and has a full skirt,” she says. “It can often also have short sleeves or a floral print. The name really gives it away—tea party vibes.”

We love a tea length dress for the mother of the groom, so we delved into some of the most beautiful options out there, whittling our selection down to our favorite wedding-worthy styles you’ll love—from flouncy floral to glamorous satin. Keep reading to find out our top picks for tea length dresses for every wedding dress code.

Best for a Spring Wedding

ML Monique Lhuillier Chiffon Lace Midi-Dress

ML Monique Lhuillier Chiffon Lace Midi-Dress

Saks Fifth Avenue

Spring weddings call for pastel dresses crafted from light and airy fabrics, just like this this powder blue number. It's soft, lightweight, and breathable—ideal for a warm-weather, laid-back wedding. The lace detailing and cap sleeves provide a touch of whimsy, while the fitted waist adds some structure to the overall silhouette. We also love that this is something you'll wear again and again long after the couple says "I do."

Size Range: 0-16 | Material: Polyester | Colors: Delphinium Blue

Best for a Daytime Wedding

Markarian Yvette Floral Brocade Off-The-Shoulder Midi Dress

Markarian Yvette Floral Brocade Off-The-Shoulder Midi Dress

Markarian

Leave it to Markarian to deliver the perfect floral dress for a warm-weather wedding. With a split-corset bodice, off-the-shoulder neckline, puff sleeves, and a column skirt all finished in a beautiful yellow and pink floral pattern, this dress is ideal for semi-formal and casual spring or summer weddings. Made from a blend of polyester and silk, it has a lightweight and comfortable fit. Follow the styling lead and pair this frock with a bright clutch and classic sandals.

Size Range: 0-16 | Material: Polyester, acetate, polyamide, silk, metallized polyester, silk | Colors: Gold

Best Cape Effect

Alex Perry Beckett Cape-Effect Satin-Crepe Midi Dress

Alex Perry Beckett Cape-Effect Satin-Crepe Midi Dress

Net-A-Porter

A look fit for a royal wedding, Alex Perry’s Beckett dress is at once dramatic and sophisticated. The fresh mint hue is perfect for a spring wedding while the cape-like sleeves provide chic coverage for a more modest look. The padded shoulders add shape and structure to the silhouette and create an elongating look.

Size Range: 4-16 | Material: Triacetate, polyester | Colors: Mint

Best Lace

Kiyonna Plus Size Mon Cherie Lace Dress

Kiyonna Plus Size Mon Cherie Lace Dress

Kiyonna

You’d be hard-pressed to find a more perfect mother-of-the-groom dress. We adore the eye-catching violet hue and details like sheer lace sleeves and an alluring scalloped neck and hemline. What’s more, the A-line silhouette is created with stretchy fabric, making this frock equal parts stylish and figure-flattering. It’s a perfect dress for a wedding that calls for cocktail attire.

Size Range: 0X-5X | Material: Nylon, spandex | Colors: Violet, Rose Gold

Best Off-the-Shoulder

Rickie Freeman for Teri Jon Off-Shoulder Pleated Jacquard Midi Dress

Off-Shoulder Pleated Jacquard Midi Dress

Bergdorf Goodman

An off-the-shoulder neckline looks particularly enchanting when paired with a tea-length silhouette. We love this pretty pink style because the metallic floral jacquard fabric is flattering on a wide range of skin tones. It even has side seam pockets to stash your wedding day essentials like lipstick and tissues.

Size Range: 2-16 | Material: Rayon, polyester, metallic | Colors: Gold

Best Embellished

Mac Duggal Embellished Midi Dress

Mac Duggal Embellished Illusion Crew Neck Short Butterfly Sleeve Midi Dress

Dillard's

Formal weddings call for glamorous dresses like this pretty design from Mac Duggal. The tea-length silhouette is covered in shimmering sequins and twinkling crystals. The swishy skirt is slightly pleated for added movement and dimension, while the short, sheer butterfly sleeves are designed to catch the light and provide extra coverage. This style comes in a soft powder blue and deep pink hue.

Size Range: 2-20 | Material: Polyester | Colors: Blue, Rose

Best Black

Mac Duggal Off-the-Shoulder Beaded Fit and Flare Dress

Mac Duggal Off-the-Shoulder Beaded Fit and Flare Dress

Bloomingdale's

When it comes to formal weddings, an elegant black dress is always a winning choice. The exquisite off-the-shoulder neckline and beaded embellishments make this little black dress a timeless option for a formal affair. We love it for everything from chic city nuptials to grand ballroom weddings. Pair with classic black pumps and chandelier earrings to highlight your shoulders.

Size Range: 2-12 | Material: Polyester | Colors: Black

Best Print

DB Studio Abstract Floral Charmeuse Ruffle Dress

David's Bridal DB Studio Abstract Floral Charmeuse Ruffle Dress

David's Bridal

David’s Bridal carries a stunning selection of wedding-day outfits for everyone from the bride to her wedding party. We’ve fallen head over heels for this dress, thanks to its stunning abstract print. It's different enough to feel unique, but not too bold to overshadow the couple. The wrap style and asymmetrical ruffle lend this dress a little extra je ne sais quoi that’s ideal for a party look.

Size Range: 2-16 | Material: Polyester | Colors: Blue and Gold

Best for a Formal Wedding

Dessy Group Puff Cap Sleeve Full Skirt Satin Midi Dress

Dessy Group Puff Cap Sleeve Full Skirt Satin Midi Dress

Dessy Group

This tea length dress features a classic shape with cap sleeves, a round neckline, a cinched waist, and an A-line skirt. Choose from a range of pretty hues to beautifully contrast with or complement the colors worn by the bridal party.

Size Range: 00-30 | Material: Polyester | Colors: 33

Best Illusion

Eliza J Sequin Floral Embroidery Fit & Flare Cocktail Midi Dress

Nordstrom Eliza J Sequin Floral Embroidery Fit & Flare Cocktail Midi Dress

Nordstrom

The sheer, short sleeves on this dress provide the perfect amount of coverage without feeling too heavy. With a strapless navy lining, overlayed with sheer, sequined floral lace, it has a dressed-up feel with a full skirt for easy movement. Bonus: it has pockets!

Size Range: 0-12 | Material: Nylon | Colors: Navy

Best Pleated

Petal and Pup Womens Noelle Twist Front Pleated Midi Dress

Macy's Petal and Pup Womens Noelle Twist Front Pleated Midi Dress

Macy's

This pink pleated beauty may come in at a budget-friendly price, but it’s guaranteed to make you look and feel like a million bucks. We’re in love with its V-neck twisted front, puffy long sleeves, and flouncy pleated skirt. This dress will be so easy to slip on for the big day and complements just about any pair of shoes that strike your fancy—from summery wedges to glamorous stilettos.

Price at the time of publish: $89

Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester, elastane | Colors: Pink

Best Long-Sleeve

Emilia Wickstead Tazmin Floral-Print Textured Stretch-Cotton Midi Dress

Net-A-Porter Emilia Wickstead Tazmin Floral-Print Textured Stretch-Cotton Midi Dress

Net-A-Porter

Your son and his soon-to-be spouse are a match made in heaven, and so are spring weddings and this Emilia Wickstead design. We’re feeling some type of way about this dress in the grass green colorway, with its delicate rose pattern and discreet dots. The long sleeves make it a wonderful choice for sunny days with a lingering chill. The high neckline, cinched waist, and A-line skirt are the height of elegance.

Size Range: 6-18 | Material: Cotton, elastane | Colors: Green, Blue

Best Cap-Sleeve

Oleg Cassini Short Sleeve A-Line Dress with 3D Flowers and Sash

David's Bridal Oleg Cassini Short Sleeve A-Line Dress with 3D Flowers and Sash

David's Bridal

Champagne is a go-to shade for mother-of-the-groom and bride dresses, since it’s elegant and compliments all kinds of venues and skin tones. This one has a classic tea-length silhouette, complimented by cap sleeves and an A-line skirt. 3D flowers add a romantic touch while the satin sash lets you highlight your waist. Yes, please!

Size Range: 2-24 | Material: Polyester | Colors: Champagne

Best Bow-Embellished

Alessandra Rich Bow-Detailed Silk-Satin Midi Dress

Net-A-Porter Alessandra Rich Bow-Detailed Silk-Satin Midi Dress

Net-A-Porter

Kate Middleton is often spotted in Alessandra Rich dresses, and there’s really no wedding guest dressing inspiration quite like Kate Middleton’s wardrobe. Case in point: This olive green satin dress is both elegant and fashion-forward. The long sleeves and tea length ensure you’ll feel adequately covered, while the puff shoulders, big front bow, and figure-hugging cut infuse the look with a whole lot of fun.

Size Range: IT36-46 | Material: Silk, cupro | Colors: Green

Best with Jacket

Le Bos Tea Length Sequin Lace and Chiffon Jacket Dress

David's Bridal Le Bos Tea Length Sequin Lace and Chiffon Jacket Dress

David's Bridal

We love a dress with a matching jacket—it’s perfect for those in-between seasons, where you might be warm during the ceremony and then cold at the reception. This set comes with a sparky lace jacket. The dress itself has a beaded bodice met with a flowy chiffon skirt. Both the light blue and stone shades are timeless.

Size Range: 8-18 | Material: Polyester | Colors: Blue, Stone

What to Look for in Tea Length Mother-of-the-Groom Dresses

  • Color: Of course, what color dress you wear to your son’s wedding depends largely on your personal preference. With that in mind, there are a few guidelines you might find helpful to follow. “Spring and summer weddings are a great time to choose a brighter color or lightly patterned dress,” says fashion stylist Alexandrea Cohen. “In the fall and winter, think in terms of jewel tones, such as emerald green, maroon, navy or royal blue.” Also, there are some things not you may want to avoid wearing. “Traditionally, it is encouraged to not wear solid black to weddings, and of course, no white or any light color close to the bride,” Cohen adds.
  • Fabric: When selecting a fabric for the dress, you should consider the formality of the wedding as well as the season. If the wedding is taking place somewhere warm, look for light, breathable fabrics like cotton and silk. During the colder months, you can get away with heavier fabrics like velvet, taffeta, and wool.
  • Embellishment: How embellished your dress is is also down to personal preference! “Feel free to go for something with a subtle embellishment, sparkle, or pattern,” says Cohen. “Let your personality shine! Just be cognizant of the amount of embellishment on the bride’s dress, so as to not take away from her.”
FAQ
  • What is a tea length dress?

    You might be more familiar with the term “midi dress,” but length is originally not all there is to a tea length dress. “A tea length dress has a hem that extends past the knee and hits the wearer at about mid-calf,” says Cohen. “Traditional tea length dresses have a fuller, A-line skirt with a fitted waist and bodice; however, this can vary with more modern looks.”

  • Do tea length dresses work for all dress codes?

    Tea length dresses come in so many styles these days, so “they can so easily be dressed down with flat shoes, or up with high-heeled shoes,” says Rosales. This style of dress is also appropriate for cocktail attire.

  • What shoes go best with a tea length dress?

    You have a lot of options when it comes to choosing shoes to go with your tea length dress. “I really love a D'Orsay heel, as both silhouettes are classic and timeless,” says Rosales. “I also think that they pair well with almost any open-toed shoes, but avoid pairing them with any kind of heel that has an ankle (or any other type of) strap, because it will have a shortening effect on the overall proportions and look of the outfit.”

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writer Sophie Moore is a former fashion editor at Brides and is an expert in all things bridal attire, from couture wedding gowns to the perfect "something blue" accessory. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, wedding guests, wedding parties, and more.

Iris Goldsztajn is a Paris-born, London-based freelance writer with 10 years of experience covering fashion, beauty, wellness and lifestyle for the likes of Brides, InStyle, Marie Claire, British Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Bustle, Refinery29 and many more. As the former associate editor for Her Campus, she was responsible for all style and beauty news coverage. In order to write this article, Goldsztajn conducted in-depth research into tea length dresses, and spoke to professional fashion stylists Alexandrea Cohen and Gabriela Rosales to gain further insights into the most beautiful tea length dresses for the mother-of-the-groom.

  • Alexandrea Cohen is a fashion stylist and entrepreneur based in Dallas, Texas. You can find her on Instagram @styledbycohen.
  • Gabriela Rosales is a fashion stylist and founder of The Stylist Witch, who utilizes an Intuitive Styling method to help clients find their most authentic style. She is based in Southern California.

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