17 Best Short Mother of the Bride Dresses of 2021

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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.

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Most Statement-Making: Bernadette One-Shoulder Taffeta Mini Dress

pink mini dress — 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.

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Best Allover Sparkle: Monique Lhuillier Glitter Tulle Dress

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.

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Most Versatile: Roksanda Draped Midi Dress

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!

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For a Spring Wedding: JS Collection Reyes Dress

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.

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For a Black-Tie Wedding: Gucci Crystal Embellished Velvet Dress

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.

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Most Unique: Erdem Floral Cape Dress

For the mother unabashed by drama, this floral mini is stunning. The cape sleeves are unique without feeling over the top at a wedding.

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For a New Year's Eve Wedding: Talbot Runhof Metallic Dress

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.

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For a Formal Wedding: BHLDN Katla Dress

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.

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For a Fall Wedding: Jessica Howard Portrait Collar and Cuff Sleeve Ruched Waist Dress

Mom will feel like royalty in this elegant knee-length dress. The portrait collar, cuffs, and full skirt are timeless and sophisticated.

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Most Intricate Details: Needle & Thread Wallflower Dress

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.

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Best Little Black Dress: Victoria Beckham Asymmetric Twisted-Neck Dress

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.

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Best Blush Style: Gianluca Capannolo One Shoulder Tunic Dress

This one-shoulder silky tunic dress exudes sophistication and elegance. The shift silhouette is loose-fitting but not shapeless.

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Best Floral Style: Ruffled Embroidered Glittered Tulle Midi Dress

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.

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Best Long Sleeves: Zimmermann Asymmetric Silk-Satin Wrap Midi Dress

long sleeve dress — 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.

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Best Jewel Tone: BHLDN Satin Midi Dress

For the mother who tends classic but with feminine impulses, this emerald green dress is perfect. The puffed shoulders design is sweet yet elegant.

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Best Budget: Simply Be Wrap Midi Dress

For a springtime wedding, this mauve-colored dress is so romantic. It’s sophisticated and fresh for a traditional ceremony.

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Best for Cocktail Attire: Carolina Herrera Belted Satin Dress

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.

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