What colors are popular for fall mother of the bride or groom dresses?

Most people gravitate toward moody, harvest, and jewel tones for fall weddings. Think deep purples and greens, rich burgundies and blues, metallic like gold, and classic black. That said, as long as you adhere to the dress code and steer clear of white or ultra vibrant shades (unless otherwise requested from the couple of honor), wear a hue you love.

Should I wear long sleeves to a fall wedding?

It's a good idea to keep the ceremony/reception space in mind, as well as the location and temperature when selecting your look. For outdoor events in colder climates, longer sleeves could make you feel more comfortable. Regardless, bring a jacket or shrug since many places still get chilly as the sun sets during the autumn months.

What type of dress should I wear to a fall wedding?

Typically fall wedding styles include draped designs, vintage-inspired lace, and pops of shine that nod toward the decadence of the season. That said, taking cues from the venue's decor, colors, and theme can help you narrow in on a dress that feels appropriate and intentional.

23 Best Fall Mother of the Bride Dresses of 2023

bride and mother of the bride — Photo by Gianni di Natale

We don't need to tell you that figuring out what to wear to your son or daughter's wedding is a big—and sometimes difficult—decision. As the mother or the bride or groom, selecting a dress that stands out without being too flashy, fits the theme, adheres to the formality, and shows off your style can seem tricky. The good news is, if the "I dos" are taking place in autumn, there are tons of fall mother of the bride or groom dresses to choose from, each more beautiful than the last.

As you’re searching through options, you’re probably realizing autumn outfits look pretty different from warmer weather ones. Unlike spring or summer where bright colors reign supreme, during the fall, harvest colors and jewel tones tend to take center stage. In addition to deep purples, bright burgundies, glittering golds, and mustard yellows, you should also be on the lookout for luxe fabrics and textures—if you ever wanted to rock velvet or satin, this is the time!

What Should the Mother of the Bride Wear?

To help you narrow down your choices, we’ve reached out to our favorite—and the most reputable—sellers to round up 23 of the best fall mother of the bride or groom dresses fit for a seasonal celebration. Whether you envision yourself in head-to-toe sequins or a simple LBD, we guarantee there’s an amazing autumn style waiting for you.

Courtesy of Azazie

View On Azazie.com

Size: 0-30, custom | Materials: Mesh | Length: Floor-length

It wouldn't be a fall wedding without festive hues, and Azazie's cabernet is one of our favorite wine-inspired shades. The Belladonna dress looks especially alluring in this color with its stately bateau neckline and sophisticated cowl drape sleeves.

Price at time of publish: $179

Strapless Corset Gown with Tulle Trumpet Skirt

Courtesy of David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

Size: 2-24 | Materials: Tulle, nylon, polyester | Length: Floor-length

The most formal affairs call for the fanciest frocks, like this dreamy corset gown from Galina Signature. The form-fitting trumpet gown flows into a soft tulle skirt while the bodice boasts lace and sequin accents. Make sure to bring a matching shawl or jacket to throw over the strapless neckline in case the temps turn cold.

Price at time of publish: $270 for missy

Courtesy of Amsale

View On Amsale.com

Size: 00-28 | Materials: Satin, polyester | Length: Floor-length

Looking like a glimmering gemstone, this luxe Amsale gown is a diamond in itself. From the green/gray petrol shade to the shimmering stones along the neckline and the dramatic draped back, this stunning satin design was made to wow.

Price at time of publish: $1,295

Courtesy of Adrianna Papell

View On Adriannapapell.com

Size: 0-26 | Materials: Polyester, beading | Length: Floor-length

It doesn't get better than this magnificent moody gown from Adrianna Papell for fall festivities. Coming in seven different colors, we especially love how the moonscape hue makes the floral pattern pop against the streamlined purple silhouette.

Price at time of publish: $329 for regular

Courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman

View On Bergdorfgoodman.com

Size: 2-18 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor-length

Bright blues aren't always an autumn staple, but this sapphire-inspired hue feels at home with the classic deep reds and emerald greens. With a body-skimming column silhouette and an elegant capelet for arm coverage, this unexpected option puts a unique twist on the fall classics.

Price at time of publish: $660

Courtesy of David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

Size: 2-23 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor-length

Metallics are major for fall, and this glittering DB studio gown checks off all the boxes with its glowy gold shade, sweetheart neckline, and cap sleeves. The intricate ruching compliments your curves while the center skirt slit adds movement to every step you take.

Price at time of publish: $190

Courtesy of Neiman Marcus

View On Neiman Marcus

Size: 2-16 | Materials: Lace, polyester | Length: Floor-length

Seasonally romantic, this Badgley Mischka gown is a fall wedding favorite due to its elongating V-neckline, short puff sleeves, and flattering empire waist. Best of all, though, is the exquisite orange rust hue that gives us all the harvest vibes and foliage feels.

Price at time of publish: $915

View On Showmeyourmumu.com

Size: XXS-XXL | Materials: Satin, polyester | Length: Midi-length

Neutrals work for every season, but they especially pop when paired with the colors of the moment. This flirty ruffled midi from Show Me Your Mumu is a dream on its own with a tired skirt and flutter sleeves. It's also the perfect style to don if a statement shoe or bright corsage is part of your day-of vision.

Price at time of publish: $198

Courtesy of Revelry

View On Shoprevelry.com

Size: 0-32 | Materials: Velvet | Length: Floor-length

Luxurious, soft, and sophisticated, it's easy to see why velvet is a favorite fall wedding material. Revelry's Esther gown—which comes in 25 colors—elevates the fabric further with three-quarter sleeves, a draped neckline, and figure-flattering side gatherings.

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

View On Saks Fifth Avenue

Size: 4-10 | Materials: Mulberry silk, velvet | Length: Floor length, asymmetric hem

Florals might typically be reserved for spring, but this silk and velvet number from Ralph Lauren Collection is clearly the exception. The unique patchwork design boasts a plunging neckline, voluminous ruffles, and a fall-inspired pattern rich in harvest hues.

Price at time of publish: $4,790

David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

Size: 14-24 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor-length

On its own, this sleek jersey gown from Oleg Cassini is captivating, but when you add the matching flowy sequin lace capelet (which is included), the look becomes something truly special. Bonus: The design comes in wine, navy, and Champagne, with each color as spellbinding as the last.

Price at time of publish: $170

Courtesy of Lord and Taylor

Size: 6-16 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor-length

Chic black dresses are a year-round favorite, but they're especially popular in the fall when darker hues dominate. That's why this R&M Richards gown is such a great mother of the bride or groom choice. The timeless style is elevated by rhinestone straps and cold shoulder details that'll make you sparkle extra on the big day.

Courtesy of Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie

Size: 0-16 | Materials: Polyester, beading, tulle | Length: Floor-length

If you really want to lean into the autumn aesthetic, Mac Duggal's Yvette dress is likely what you're envisioning. Between a lavishly beaded bodice, sweeping tulle skirt, and an all-over fall floral pattern, this gown is a foliage-inspired favorite.

Price at time of publish: $798

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

View On Saks Fifth Avenue

Size: 0-16 | Materials: Tulle, nylon | Length: Floor-length

Whether it's a Halloween wedding or just a festive celebration, this delightful dress from Marchesa Notte is a serious standout. Between the ruffled sleeves, tiered tulle skirt, and sparkly embroidered polka dots, this is one look that'll truly make you feel like the life of the party.

Price at time of publish: $1,095

Courtesy of Revelry

View On Shoprevelry.com

Size: 0-36 | Materials: Sequin | Length: Floor-length

Get that sequin sparkle while still feeling supported and sophisticated with Revelry's Gwen gown. Featuring flutter sleeves, a V-neckline, and a twist front detail, this design comes in 13 colors and shines without feeling too flashy.

Price at time of publish: $189

Courtesy of Amsale

View On Amsale.com

Size: 00-28 | Materials: Satin | Length: Floor-length

Satin is such a sleek fall wedding choice, and it's made even more covetable in this column design from Amsale. The asymmetrical ruffle sleeve pulls the eyes up, while the delicate draping flatters the figure without feeling too tight. Select the style in the copper color to really play up the harvest theme.

Price at time of publish: $595

Courtesy of Farfetch

View On Farfetch.com

Size: XXS-XXL | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor-length

Old-world Hollywood meets modern elegance in this flared frock from Tadashi Shoji. The curve-defining gown skims the body, giving your figure an extra boost, and the lace panel neckline adds a touch of feminine sexiness that really sets this style apart.

Price at time of publish: $388

Courtesy of Amsale

View On Amsale.com

Size: 00-28 | Materials: Scuba crepe, chiffon | Length: Floor-length

Long sleeves can sometimes feel cumbersome, but Amsale changed that in this fit-to-flare halter gown. The traditional neckline features silk chiffon bishop sleeves that provide extra arm coverage without making you feel stuffy or over-covered.

Courtesy of Neiman Marcus

View On Neiman Marcus

Size: 2-18 | Materials: Nylon | Length: Floor-length

With its rich wine hue, all-over metallic sheen, and unique one-shoulder neckline, this Rickie Freeman gown is as glam as they come. Wear your hair up and pair your look with some special wedding shoes to really compliment this one-of-a-kind design.

Price at time of publish: $790

Courtesy of Azazie

View On Azazie.com

Size: 0-30, custom | Materials: Chiffon | Length: Floor-length

As one of Azazie's most popular mother-of-the-bride dresses, it's pretty clear why reviewers love this design. The flattering draped bodice, A-line silhouette, and open lantern sleeves work together to create a look worthy of your VIP wedding status. We especially love the rich butterscotch hue for seasonally-themed fall weddings.

Price at time of publish: $149

Courtesy of Adrianna Papell

View On Adriannapapell.com

Size: 0-20 | Materials: Chiffon, polyester | Length: Floor-length

Vintage styles are always popular for fall celebrations, so lean into aesthetics from the past with this beaded number from Adrianna Papell. Coming in a deep Bordeaux hue, this sweeping chiffon gown boasts hand-beading that dances down the bodice, and illusion sleeves that nod to eras past.

Price at time of publish: $279

Courtesy of Lord and Taylor

View On Lordandtaylor.com

Size: 6-16 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Knee-length

Semi-formal weddings might mean shorter hemlines and more casual styles, but this rewearable cocktail dress from R&M Richards still feels especially celebration-worthy. The three-quarter semi-sheer sleeves and wrap design will quickly make this LBD a special occasions staple after the big day.

Price at time of publish: $79

Courtesy of Azazie

View On Azazie.com

Size: 0-30, custom | Materials: Chiffon, lace | Length: Floor-length

With 22 color options and two ways to wear the look, this traditional set from Azazie is quickly becoming a wedding go-to. The lace and chiffon dress is a vision all on its own, which can quickly be transformed by donning—or removing—the matching lace jacket.

Price at time of publish: $186

What to Look for in Fall Mother of the Bride or Groom Dresses

When shopping for a mother of the bride or groom dress, there are a few things you'll want to consider before selecting a frock. First, pay attention to the venue and formality of the event. Typically, evening weddings require more formal attire, but sticking to the dress code is essential for parents and wedding party members. In fact, you'll likely be one of the most dressed-up people there since your role is one of extreme honor. When in doubt, ask to have your son, daughter, or a member of their wedding party give their input and suggestions regarding your attire. It's also a good idea to ask if they have a color preference since some couples like their parents to dress according to the wedding color palette.

Lastly, it's important to pay attention to the expected weather and temperature of the event before narrowing in on a dress style. Some fall weddings can be extremely comfortable while others can get downright cold. A safe bet would be selecting a style with shorter or sheer sleeves and then bringing along a matching jacket or shawl in preparation for potential dropping temperatures.

FAQ

What colors are popular for fall mother of the bride or groom dresses?

Most people gravitate toward moody, harvest, and jewel tones for fall weddings. Think deep purples and greens, rich burgundies and blues, metallic like gold, and classic black. That said, as long as you adhere to the dress code and steer clear of white or ultra vibrant shades (unless otherwise requested from the couple of honor), wear a hue you love.
Should I wear long sleeves to a fall wedding?

It's a good idea to keep the ceremony/reception space in mind, as well as the location and temperature when selecting your look. For outdoor events in colder climates, longer sleeves could make you feel more comfortable. Regardless, bring a jacket or shrug since many places still get chilly as the sun sets during the autumn months.
What type of dress should I wear to a fall wedding?

Typically fall wedding styles include draped designs, vintage-inspired lace, and pops of shine that nod toward the decadence of the season. That said, taking cues from the venue's decor, colors, and theme can help you narrow in on a dress that feels appropriate and intentional.

The 18 Best Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses of 2023 to Buy Online

Why Trust Us

Contributing Expert Writer Rachel Varina is a full-time freelancer with over 10 years of editorial experience and six years of experience in the wedding industry. Her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Elite Daily, Betches, Zola, and more.