Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/jenneth-and-joseph-weddinig-11-51e394673fad4e4db91292a7dd15ded6-6b0a2b1da71e4654be319e7a0f30b3c3.jpg)
Photo by Kaylee Chelsea Photography
As the mother of the bride, your role comes with big responsibilities. You've likely been by the bride's side helping, planning, and lending sage advice along the way. So when it comes to securing the perfect mother of the bride dress, you deserve to find one that celebrates you and your personal style.
While your look should complement the wedding color palette, season, and venue, today's mother of the bride (and mother of the groom) shouldn't feel restricted to traditional mother of the bride dresses. In fact, mother of the bride dress etiquette has changed over the years, offering mothers the opportunity to truly showcase their personal style. Love allover sparkle and intricate beading? Endless options abound! Coveting shorter hemlines? We've got you covered! Searching for off-the-shoulder necklines or long sleeves? We've got those, too!
No matter your style or whether you'll be standing by the bride's side at a black-tie wedding or intimate backyard nuptials, we've curated the best mother of the bride dresses with every season, body type, and budget in mind.
For the Timeless MOB: BHLDN Satin Maxi Dress
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/60370673_032_b1-2984b82775694caa8e31be690382fa04.jpg)
Courtesy of BHLDN
If you're looking for an elegant dress that will not only look timeless in photos but can be worn again, consider this impossibly chic gown from BHLDN. Crafted from luxurious satin and featuring a sophisticated V-back, you'll be sure to stun at your daughter's wedding and all future formal events.
For a Formal Wedding: Pisarro Nights Beaded Sequin Gown
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/D1406_MCARBONBLUE_MOB_PROD1_026-e12fda3529f344229c6f79d533503fe4.jpg)
Courtesy of David's Bridal
A little sparkle is a must when celebrating such a joyous occasion. This gown in midnight blue is flocked with shimmering sequins and eyecatching beadwork. Wear yours with heels in a neutral tone and delicate shoulder-grazing earrings.
Best for a Holiday Wedding: Alex Evenings Sequin 3/4-Sleeve Wrap Front Dress With Twist
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/8196646_PDP_Crop_1920x2880-ed684b49d3c442d8a50514b1af3c6f03.jpg)
Courtesy of David's Bridal
Don't be afraid to make a statement in head-to-toe sparkle. Whether the wedding is around the holidays or calls for a formal dress code, add some serious glitz and glam to your look in this gown adorned with allover sequins.
Best Neckline: Tadashi Shoji Portrait Collar Sequin Décolletage Gown
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/fb99301f-5e96-469b-bb98-496be4017a20-535b8bebdccd4af1869936b89d26701a.jpg)
Courtesy of Nordstrom
For the mother of the bride looking for a statement-making look, this gown from Tadashi Shoji boasts a truly unique sequin embellished neckline. Soft, off-the-shoulder draping meets waist-cinching pleats for an incredibly flattering fit.
For the Fashion-Forward: Alexander McQueen Crystal-Neckline Cape-Shoulder Silk-Satin Gown
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/outfit_1369005_1_zoom-9ac55eb2cc8148fb91ce675fade222f5.jpg)
Courtesy of Matchesfashion
Only seriously chic MOBs need apply! This stunning gown from Alexander McQueen is for those who don't even think twice about making a bold fashion statement. Adorned with an ornate crystal collar and featuring a dramatic one-shoulder cape, this gown is an absolute must for a black-tie wedding.
Best Body-Skimming: La Femme Sparkle Lace Trumpet Gown
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/d3022120-f183-4798-b687-75aabfdec33f-d9e096c4271d49cba3c800b7b3652b48.jpg)
Courtesy of Nordstrom
Show off your décolletage in this off-the-shoulder lace and satin cocktail gown featuring an incredibly flattering wrap skirt with expertly placed ruching. A lace bodice with subtle sparkle details makes this dress feel all the more special.
For a Destination Wedding: Badgley Mischka Multi-Print Tiered Gown
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/11Honore_1986_1500x2000-3eaa8fd0b2894f71bed107b32e453bb3.jpg)
Courtesy of 11 Honoré
For MOBs headed to a destination wedding where the dress code calls for casual attire, opt for this bright and cheery Badgley Mischka gown. If this style is not formal enough for the big day, it could easily be worn to the rehearsal dinner.
Shopping FAQs
Searching for the perfect dress for the big day? We’ve answered four common questions about shopping for mother of the bride dresses.
- 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 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 should I consider when shopping for my dress? It’s important to take into consideration the venue, the season, and your personal style. While your outfit should be season-appropriate and complement the wedding’s color palette, it’s also important to pick a silhouette and color that celebrates your body type and personal style.
- What colors should I avoid wearing? Unless specifically approved by the bride, a good rule of thumb is to avoid wearing white or any hue that might resemble the bride’s wedding dress.
- Do I have to run my dress by the bride? While your daughter will surely want you to feel your best in your dress, having a conversation with the bride before you start shopping can help set expectations and narrow down your options.