The 25 Best Short Mother of the Bride Dresses

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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.

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.

From minis to knee-length styles and tea-length silhouettes, we've curated the best short mother of the bride dresses for every style and body type.

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Aidan Mattox Embellished Midi Dress

For a look that is both black-tie appropriate and summer weather appropriate, opt for a dress in a pastel hue with sophisticated sparkle details.

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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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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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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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Lela Rose Floral Printed Corded Lace Flutter-Sleeve Sheath Dress

A floral-print sheath is utterly sweet for the mother of a springtime bride or groom.

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ASOS DESIGN Curve Pleated Midi Dress with Kimono Sleeve and Tie Waist

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

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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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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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BCBGMAXAZRIA Asymmetrical Turtleneck Midi Dress

This dress is proof that unique design and fussy fabrics aren’t mutually exclusive. In an earthy nubuck tone, this asymmetrical style perfectly fuses ease and elegance.

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Alice + Olivia Zaya Plissé-Georgette and Jersey Mini Dress

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

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Lauren Ralph Lauren Metallic Faux-Wrap Dress

This metallic wrap dress is a timeless look for mothers of brides and grooms at an evening wedding. Just add a pair of coordinating sandals and pretty earrings.

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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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Jonathan Simkhai Fluid Satin Front Slit Dress

It doesn't get more elegant like royal blue satin. We love the peek of lace at the neckline of this below-the-knee style.

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Self-Portrait Crystal-Embellished Off-The-Shoulder Cady Dress

This black midi dress is so modern for mom at a black-tie wedding. The crystal-lined neck and voluminous sleeves make a super-chic statement.

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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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Dima Ayad Drop Shoulder Pleated Dress

This shimmering midi dress is so spectacular with intricate beading and an ombre effect. We can picture this at a black-tie wedding at sunset.

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Diane von Furstenberg Mara Sequined Jersey Midi Dress

For the glamorous mom who lives for an LBD, this sequined faux-wrap dress is everything. With a simple pair of heels and gorgeous earrings, it's a breathtaking look for an evening wedding.

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Dress the Population Louisa Butterfly Sleeve Cocktail Dress

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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Marchesa Notte V Neck Dress

A little glitz, a little glam for mom? Yes, please! This tiered number is festive for an evening wedding.

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Eliza J Shimmering One-Shoulder Dress

For the mother who tends classic but with feminine impulses, this pale pink dress is perfect. The one-shoulder design is sweet yet elegant.

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City Chic Cute Girl Dress

For the mother that wants to keep things simple, this fit-and-flare dress is stunning. The neckline has just enough interest to feel special for the occasion, which can be amplified with a gorgeous necklace or pair of earrings.

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Significant Other Azure One-Shoulder Satin Mini Dress

This navy satin 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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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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