The 18 Best Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Type of Wedding

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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 special 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 budget. We paid special attention to look for styles in wide size ranges, colors, and 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 (for such an important event) but also ensures comfort and affordability are top considerations. "Finding the right balance between budget and style is key," she adds.

Best Allover Beading

Pisarro Nights Beaded Mesh Dress

Pisarro Nights Beaded Mesh Dress

Nordstrom

Allover beading add dimension and sophisticated sparkle to this flattering mesh column gown. It comes in several pretty shades (including a soft blue and pastel violet), but we especially like the gray version—it's a sophisticated neutral that works with many different 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

This intricately embroidered gown is the perfect match for 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

Woman wearing blue AW Adina Dress on a beige background

AW bridal

You might not want to spend a fortune on your outfit—with this dress, you don't have to compromise quality or style. 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

This fishtail-hemmed number is nothing short of elegant. With a wrapped cape-like bodice and drop sleeves, you'll both look and feel great in this gown. The column silhouette is made with a 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 Pryce Off-Shoulder Satin Column Gown

Amsale

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

Woman wearing Kiyonna Embroidered Elegance Evening Gown

Kiyonna

Kiyonna is a plus-size brand that offers a broad size range between a 10 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 both blends in and feels distinct against 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

Tadashi Shoji Odette Sequin Dress

Anthropologie

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

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

Woman wearing Needle & Thread Aurelia Long Sleeve Gown

Needle & Thread

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

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

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

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

If you're unsure where to look for dresses and are on a budget, Amazon is always a great place to start. This gown from Alex Evenings is available in both regular and petite sizing for each of its 10 colors. Besides the bonus coordinating shawl, the dress also comes with 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

Woman wearing AW Rosemary Dress

AW Bridal

For the mother of the bride who loves velvet and a little sparkle, this column dress offers flattering and elegant draping. 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

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

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

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

If strapless is your vibe or you're going to a summer wedding, this fun floral dress might calling your name. The seamed bodice and soft pleats made it feel streamlined and modern, but the print itself 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

Whether your daughter is saying "I do" in 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 add 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

For a winter wedding or a more modest mother-of-the-bride dress option, opt for a gown with a matching jacket. 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 soirĂ©e? 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 even 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, offering mothers the opportunity to spotlight their personal style and have fun with their own unique looks. Whether you're a lover of sparkle and intricate beading, seek shorter hemlines, or lean toward off-the-shoulder necklines, endless options abound. 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 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, bridal parties, and more.

Brides contributor Dagmara Cintron is an NYC native living in Los Angeles where she is a contributing writer for several publications covering emerging Latina artists, fashion, local LA stories, and more. Working in the fashion digital space for over 7 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.

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A Guide to Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses

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