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Courtesy of BHLDN
For the mothers of brides and grooms, a beautiful dress to wear on the wedding day is imperative, and often, that means a short dress instead of a formal gown. Whether mom is petite, has a more laid-back style, or doesn't want to wear a floor-sweeping silhouette, a short dress is a great solution that can range from timeless and elegant to sweetly spirited.
Short mother of the bride dresses come in various silhouettes from mini dresses to knee-length and tea-length styles.
For moms with traditional taste, sheath dresses, A-line shapes, and wrap dresses are beautiful in pretty prints, soft colors, or elegant fabrics like silk or crepe. For fashion-centric mothers who want to wear something fresh and of-the-moment, you can be sure they'll all about unique elements like a one-shoulder or illusion neckline, pleated cape sleeves, or an asymmetrical silhouette. Then, there are the moms that crave something intricate for such a special occasion, such as pretty lace, polished sequins, or embellishments like a crystal-lined neck or beautiful beading.
Ahead, we've curated the best short mother of the bride dresses for every style and body type.
Most Statement-Making: Bernadette One-Shoulder Taffeta Mini Dress
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Courtesy of Matchesfashion
This gorgeous taffeta dress makes a stunning statement for an evening city wedding. The dramatic one-shoulder puffed sleeve is that special touch that will help mom elegantly stand out.
Best Allover Sparkle: Monique Lhuillier Glitter Tulle Dress
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Courtesy of Net-a-Porter
For mothers that are craving a bit of shimmer, this glitter tulle dress is a stunning option for a black-tie wedding. Wear yours with your minimalist accessories to round out the look.
Most Versatile: Roksanda Draped Midi Dress
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Courtesy of Moda Operandi
This powder blue draped minidress feels as striking for a seaside summer wedding as it does a City Hall reception. In other words, an ultra-versatile pick!
For a Spring Wedding: JS Collection Reyes Dress
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Courtesy of BHLDN
We love this pretty lace minidress for a late morning or afternoon wedding. It's sweet and romantic for the stylish mom with classic taste.
For a Black-Tie Wedding: Gucci Crystal Embellished Velvet Dress
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Courtesy of Farfetch
Glamour at its finest this velvet Gucci dress boasts a conservative neckline coupled with an elegant plunge back and is a no-brainer for a black-tie wedding.
Most Unique: Erdem Floral Cape Dress
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Courtesy of Matchesfashion
For the mother unabashed by drama, this floral mini is stunning. The cape sleeves are unique without feeling over the top at a wedding.
For a New Year's Eve Wedding: Talbot Runhof Metallic Dress
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Courtesy of Net-a-Porter
In ruched metallic voile, this lustrous midi dress is a feminine and stylish choice for any mother of a bride or groom. Tonal heels will give ensure an ultra-modern finish.
For a Formal Wedding: BHLDN Katla Dress
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Courtesy of BHLDN
An illusion neckline is beyond gorgeous for the mother who isn’t afraid to experiment. We love this intricate design in black for such a look; it’s at once daring and demure.
For a Fall Wedding: Jessica Howard Portrait Collar and Cuff Sleeve Ruched Waist Dress
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Courtesy of David's Bridal
Mom will feel like royalty in this elegant knee-length dress. The portrait collar, cuffs, and full skirt are timeless and sophisticated.
Most Intricate Details: Needle & Thread Wallflower Dress
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Courtesy of Shopbop
The sheer fabric and intricate detailing give this mini dress a whimsical feel. We love this look for a bohemian mother-of-the-bride or groom.
Best Little Black Dress: Victoria Beckham Asymmetric Twisted-Neck Dress
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Courtesy of Neiman Marcus
For the mother who wants nothing more than an elegant black cocktail dress, look no further than this asymmetric design. Whether styled with noir pumps or a jewel-toned sandal, it's an exquisite choice she'll keep in her wardrobe forever.
Best Blush Style: Gianluca Capannolo One Shoulder Tunic Dress
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Courtesy of Farfetch
This one-shoulder silky tunic dress exudes sophistication and elegance. The shift silhouette is loose-fitting but not shapeless.
Best Floral Style: Ruffled Embroidered Glittered Tulle Midi Dress
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Courtesy of Net-a-Porter
For the mom who lives for feminine flourishes, this glittered tulle mini is sweet as ever. The illusion neckline gives it a fresh and modern feel.
Best Long Sleeves: Zimmermann Asymmetric Silk-Satin Wrap Midi Dress
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Courtesy of Net-a-Porter
This simple blue dress is timeless and elegant. It's perfect for the mother who wants to cover her arms stylishly.
Best Jewel Tone: BHLDN Satin Midi Dress
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Courtesy of BHLDN
For the mother who tends classic but with feminine impulses, this emerald green dress is perfect. The puffed shoulders design is sweet yet elegant.
Best Budget: Simply Be Wrap Midi Dress
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Courtesy of ASOS
For a springtime wedding, this mauve-colored dress is so romantic. It’s sophisticated and fresh for a traditional ceremony.
Best for Cocktail Attire: Carolina Herrera Belted Satin Dress
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Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue
It doesn't get more elegant like royal blue satin. We love this belted cocktail dress for a formal fall wedding.
Shopping FAQs
Looking for the perfect dress for the big day? We've answered three common questions about shopping for short mother of the bride dresses.
- What is a short mother of the bride dress? Mother of the bride dresses come in a myriad of lengths from mini dresses that hit above the knee, to midi dresses that hit just below the calf.
- Can the mother of the bride wear a short dress? Of course! A short mother of the bride dress is entirely appropriate to wear to a wedding especially if you're attending a spring or summer wedding.
- What colors should a mother of the bride avoid wearing? Unless specifically approved by the bride, it's generally a good rule of thumb to avoid wearing white or any color that might resemble the bride’s wedding outfit.