When should I start shopping for my mother of the bride outfit?

To be on the safe side, we suggest that you start shopping for your mother-of-the-bride dress six months before the wedding to allow for any shipping delays or alterations. If you’re in a pinch, many e-commerce sites like Net-a-Porter or Nordstrom offer rush shipping.

What colors should I avoid wearing?

Although not all brides choose to wear white, it's best to avoid wearing white or any color that resembles the bride's wedding outfit.

Do I have to run my dress by the bride?

While your child will undoubtedly want you to look and feel your best on the big day, having a conversation with the couple before you start shopping, which can help set expectations and narrow down your options.

The 18 Best Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses of 2024

Three women wearing mother-of-the-bride dresses on a silver white background — Brides / Amelia Manley

As the mother of the bride, your role comes with significant responsibilities. You've likely been by the bride's side, helping with unique details, planning events, and lending invaluable advice along the way. So, when securing the perfect mother-of-the-bride dress, you deserve to find one that truly celebrates you and your style.

To help narrow down your search, we sifted through our favorite fashion retailers to find the perfect dresses for every season, body type, and silhouette. We found a range of styles that are size-inclusive, come in a variety of colors, and are made from high-quality materials that suit a range of venues and seasons.

We also tapped stylist and creative designer Stephanie Rodriguez for some insight. "The bride holds a special wand of influence, but you can’t forget the importance of the mother of the bride," she says. When looking for a mother-of-the-bride dress, she advises going for a gown that feels extra-special but also ensures comfort.

Our Top Picks

Best Allover Beading:

Pisarro Nights Beaded Mesh Dress at Nordstrom ($268)

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Best Embroidered:

Adrianna Papell Floral Gown at Adriannapapell.com (See Price)

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Best Budget:

AW Adina Dress at Awbridal.com ($90)

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Best Off-the-Shoulder:

Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Fishtail Gown at Saks Fifth Avenue ($747)

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Best for the Minimalist:

Amsale Pryce Gown at Anthropologie ($250)

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Best Plus-Size:

Kiyonna Embroidered Elegance Evening Gown at Kiyonna.com ($328)

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Best for a NYE Wedding:

Tadashi Shoji Odette Sequin Dress at Anthropologie ($150)

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Best Sequin:

The Bar Grayson Gown at Saks Fifth Avenue ($419)

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Best Long Sleeve:

Needle & Thread Aurelia Long Sleeve Gown at Needleandthread.com (See Price)

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Best A-Line:

Theia Floral A-Line Dress at Saks Fifth Avenue ($298)

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Best Allover Beading

Pisarro Nights Beaded Mesh Dress

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom $268 View On Lordandtaylor.com View On Lyst.com $268

Allover beading adds dimension and sophisticated sparkle to this flattering mesh column gown. It comes in several pretty shades (including a soft blue and pastel violet). Still, we especially like the gray version—a sophisticated neutral that works with many skin tones. Style this with simple silver sandals for an impeccably polished wedding day look.

Size Range: 2-18 (regular and petite) | Fit: Runs large; order one size down if in-between sizes | Material(s): Rayon | Shades: Navy and plum

Best Embroidered

Adrianna Papell Floral Gown

Woman wearing an Adrianna Papell Floral Embroidered Gown on a beige background

View On Adriannapapell.com

This intricately embroidered gown perfectly matches a backyard or garden wedding. Pair this stunning floral ensemble with delicate jewelry accessories and a strappy block heel (a stylish and practical solution for outdoor events).

Size Range: 0-20 | Fit: True to size | Material(s): Polyester | Shades: Biscotti Multi, Blue Breeze

Best Budget

AW Adina Dress

AW bridal

View On Awbridal.com $90

You might not want to spend a fortune on your outfit—you don't have to compromise quality or style with this dress. The cape top is a regal way to stay a little more covered, while the A-line skirt helps to lengthen the silhouette. We love that this dress comes in 42 different colors, and the size can be customized with your measurements for free.

Size Range: 0-30 | Fit: True to size | Material(s): Chiffon | Shades: 42

Best Off-the-Shoulder

Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Fishtail Gown

Woman wearing black Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Stretch Jersey Fishtail Gown

View On Saks Fifth Avenue $747

This fishtail-hemmed number is nothing short of elegant. With a wrapped cape-like bodice and drop sleeves, you'll look and feel great in this gown. The column silhouette is made with super-comfortable stretch fabric, so you'll be able to stay on the dance floor for even longer.

Size Range: 2-16 | Fit: True to size | Material(s): Polyester | Shades: 5 including Azalea Pink, Black, and Blue Notte

Best for the Minimalist

Amsale Pryce Gown

Amsale

View On Anthropologie $250 View On Saks Fifth Avenue $372

At once effortless and refined, this draped gown is the ideal soft hue for a fall or spring wedding. Featuring a gentle tucked fit at the hips, the design flatters and smooths in all the right places. We also love the comfortable silky fabric and modern, off-the-shoulder neckline.

Size Range: 0-16 | Fit: True to size | Material(s): Polyester | Shades: 9

Best Plus-Size

Kiyonna Embroidered Elegance Evening Gown

Kiyonna

View On Kiyonna.com $328

Kiyonna is a plus-size brand that offers a broad size range between a ten and a 32 for all of their selections, including this high-quality embroidered evening gown. The floral pattern is perfect for any spring or summer wedding—it blends in and feels distinct from other pastel and light-colored dresses.

Size Range: 10-32 | Fit: True to size | Material(s): Nylon; lining: polyester | Shades: Black floral

Best for a NYE Wedding

Tadashi Shoji Odette Sequin Dress

Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie $150

A New Year’s Eve wedding calls for endless glitz and glam. Step into head-to-toe sparkle in this all-over sequin stunner, and keep accessories simple—this dazzling gown does all the talking. Layered with intricate embroidery and shimmery patterns, this one feels extra special for the occasion.

Size Range: 0-18 | Fit: True to size | Material(s): Nylon, cotton, polyester | Shades: Silver, Gold

Best Sequin

The Bar Grayson Gown

Woman wearing The Bar Grayson Sequin Gown in espresso

View On Saks Fifth Avenue $419

A little sparkle—or, in this case, a lot of sparkle—is a must when celebrating such a joyous event. This timeless gown is all shimmering sequins with a bold, eye-catching flower appliqué accent. Wear yours with neutral heels and delicate shoulder-grazing earrings to subtly elevate the final look.

Size Range: 0-14 | Fit: True to size | Material(s): Silk, Polyester | Shades: Espresso, Ruby

Best Long Sleeve

Needle & Thread Aurelia Long Sleeve Gown

Needle & Thread

View On Needleandthread.com

Embellished with ornate beading, this gown catches light from every angle. A full A-line skirt makes it ultra-flattering and incredibly chic for any wedding. It also comes in two different lengths—tea and floor—so you can pick the best style.

Size Range: 0-18 | Fit: True to size, form-fitting | Material(s): Recycled Polyester | Shades: 4

Best A-Line

Theia Floral A-Line Dress

Woman wearing Theia Sonya Metallic Floral A-Line Dress

View On Saks Fifth Avenue $298

This A-line style features a retro-inspired sweetheart neck and a gold and black colorway that could work easily for any season. This dress feels classic and modern with metallic touches, mesh sleeves, and a twisted accent on the bodice.

Size Range: 0-16 | Fit: True to size | Material(s): Polyester, Metallized Polyester | Shades: Gold and Black

Best Jumpsuit

Rivet Utility One-Sleeve Satin Jumpsuit

Rivet Utility Flirt One-Sleeve Silk-Blend Satin Jumpsuit

Ret a Porter

View On Net-a-Porter $358

Attention, all fashion-forward moms! This seriously chic jumpsuit is an undeniably striking choice for a formal wedding. Pair this stunner with matching black shoes and a clutch for a sophisticated monochromatic look.

Size Range: XS-XL | Fit: True to size | Material(s): Silk, Lycra | Shades: Black

Best on Amazon

Alex Evenings V Neck Fit and Flare Dress with Shawl

Woman wearing Alex Evenings Women's Long V Neck Fit and Flare Dress with Shawl

Amazon

View On Amazon $221 View On Nordstrom $269

Amazon is always a great place to start if you're unsure where to look for dresses and are on a budget. This gown from Alex Evenings is available in regular and petite sizing for each of its 10 colors. Besides the bonus coordinating shawl, the dress also has floral, sequin detailing and a flowing flare skirt.

Size Range: 4-20 (regular and petite) | Fit: True to size | Material(s): Polyester | Shades: Multiple

Best Velvet

AW Rosemary Dress

AW Bridal

View On Awbridal.com $100

This column dress offers flattering and elegant draping for those who love velvet and a little sparkle. Available in six different jewel tones, this is the ultimate winter wedding ensemble. Best of all, you can customize it to fit your measurements for free.

Size Range: 0-30 | Fit: True to size | Material(s): Velvet | Shades: 6

Best Silk

Reformation Jenny Silk Gown

Woman wearing Reformation Jeany Floral Silk Gown

View On Saks Fifth Avenue $328

From spring garden celebrations to woodsy outdoor ceremonies, this exquisite floral silk number would complement any nature-inspired wedding perfectly. The self-tie closures and halter neckline is flattering, while the silk drapes perfectly down for a smoothing effect.

Size Range: XS-L | Fit: True to size | Material(s): 100% Silk | Shades: Rose Garden

Best Tulle

Mac Duggal Tulle Gown

Woman wearing Mac Duggal Embellished Tulle Long Gown

View On Nordstrom $498 View On Saks Fifth Avenue $498

This flattering V-neck is adorned with intricate floral sequin embellishments throughout for a dramatic, glamorous look. Featuring a full tulle skirt and an embroidered belt design, this one is a great choice any season.

Size Range: 2-20 | Fit: True to size | Material(s): Polyester | Shades: Midnight, Blush

Kay Unger FloralStrapless Gown

Woman wearing Kay Unger Hera Floral Pleated Strapless Gown

View On Neiman Marcus $458 View On Saks Fifth Avenue $458

If strapless is your vibe or you're going to a summer wedding, this fun floral dress might be your name. The seamed bodice and soft pleats made it feel streamlined and modern, but the print is all about romance. The cherry on top? It has on-seam pockets.

Size Range: 2-16 | Fit: True to size | Material(s): Polyester, Metallic Fibers | Shades: Tulipwood

Best for a Destination Wedding

Oleg Cassini Halter Gown

Woman wearing Oleg Cassini Halter Jersey Knit Gown with Rhinestone Waist

David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal $120

Whether your daughter is saying "I do" on the Amalfi Coast or at a tropical resort, this halter dress is the perfect style for a destination wedding. Not only is the jersey fabric soft and lightweight, but it's easy to travel with since it's wrinkle-resistant. A row of rhinestones adds just the right amount of sparkle.

Size Range: 2-24 | Fit: True to size | Material(s): Polyester, Spandex | Shades: Juniper, Navy, Wine

Best with Jacket

Le Bos Lace and Chiffon A-Line Jacket Dress

Woman wearing Le Bos Tea-Length Lace and Chiffon A-Line Jacket Dress

David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

Opt for a gown with a matching jacket for a winter wedding or a more modest mother-of-the-bride dress option. With allover lace and sequin details, this style's removable jacket shines just as much as the rest of the dress.

Size Range: 8-18 (regular and plus) | Fit: True to size | Material(s): Polyester | Shades: Deep rose and sage

What to Look for in a Mother-of-the-Bride Outfit

Dress Code & Theme: Shopping for a mother-of-the-bride outfit is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. "Is it a garden gala or a swanky soirée? Opt for a silhouette that embraces her curves and moves with her dance-floor finesse," shares Rodriguez. If you don't know where to start or you're having trouble narrowing down your options, it's always helpful to look at the color palette and dress code for inspiration and direction. For formal dress codes like black-tie, you'll want to stick to full-length gowns with opulent details. A more casual dress code calls for simpler silhouettes.
Season & Fabric: Floor-length gowns in jewel tones are always appropriate for formal fall and winter weddings. Lighter fabrics, shades, and shorter silhouettes are best for spring or summer weddings (add a jacket for chilly evenings).
Personal Style: Mother-of-the-bride dress etiquette has changed over the years, allowing mothers to spotlight their personal style and have fun with their unique looks. Endless options abound if you love sparkle and intricate beading, seek shorter hemlines, or lean toward off-the-shoulder necklines. No matter your style, there's a dress out there that will make you feel beautiful and confident on your child's big day.

FAQ

When should I start shopping for my mother of the bride outfit?

To be on the safe side, we suggest that you start shopping for your mother-of-the-bride dress six months before the wedding to allow for any shipping delays or alterations. If you’re in a pinch, many e-commerce sites like Net-a-Porter or Nordstrom offer rush shipping.
What colors should I avoid wearing?

Although not all brides choose to wear white, it's best to avoid wearing white or any color that resembles the bride's wedding outfit.
Do I have to run my dress by the bride?

While your child will undoubtedly want you to look and feel your best on the big day, having a conversation with the couple before you start shopping, which can help set expectations and narrow down your options.

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, and bridal parties.

Brides contributor Dagmara Cintron is an NYC native living in Los Angeles. She contributes to several publications covering emerging Latina artists, fashion, local LA stories, and more. Working in the fashion digital space for over seven years, she has scoped top products across the fashion, beauty, and home decor space. She has also worked extensively as a fashion copywriter and has a special passion for shopping and finding the best deals.