What are some popular choices for grandmother of the groom or bride outfits?

Some popular choices for grandmothers are two-piece sets, pantsuits, sheath dresses, tea-length frocks, long-sleeve silhouettes, embellished gowns, and cocktail dresses.

What colors should I avoid wearing?

If the bride is wearing white, it’s best to avoid wearing white or any color that closely resembles white–such as cream, ivory, or beige. If you're unsure about your dress choice, run it by the couple before purchasing.

What are some of the most comfortable grandmother of the groom or bride outfits?

The most comfortable outfit for you will mostly depend on your body type. Certain silhouettes like sheath and A-line are flattering and easy to wear while pantsuits and two-piece sets can offer more freedom and flexibility. Keep in mind that you'll be sitting down for the ceremony and dancing at the reception, so make sure your outfit feels just as comfortable sitting as it does standing.

The 16 Best Grandmother of the Bride or Groom Dresses of 2023

grandparents — Photo by Rebecca Yale Photography

Of all the dresses involved in a wedding, the bride's gown is obviously the most significant. But your grandchild's wedding day is also a special moment for you to celebrate, and that means putting on your nicest frock. No matter how large or small the ceremony is going to be, you deserve to look and feel your best for this momentous occasion. After all, as the matriarch of the family, you're a true guest of honor!

From sleek eye-catching designs to formal jumpsuits and classic floor-length gowns, we've researched a slew of stylish outfits well-suited for a front seat at the ceremony. We've narrowed down the best dresses available by taking materials, size range, style, budget, and overall quality into consideration. For something simple and sweet, we love the M.M. LaFleur The Emily Dress and the Azazie Cornish Dress. For an utterly elegant ensemble, our favorite find is the Tadashi Shoji Odette Sequin Dress.

Read on for the best dresses for the grandmother of the bride or groom.

Our Top Picks

Best Set:

Alex Evenings Beaded Dress & Jacket at Nordstrom

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Best Shirtdress:

Teri Jon by Rickie Freeman Floral Gown at Saks Fifth Avenue

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Best Pant and Jacket Set:

RM Richards Ribbed Metallic Pantsuit with Necklace at David's Bridal

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Best Beadwork:

Pisarro Nights MOB Dress at Nordstrom

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For a Winter Wedding:

Jenny Yoo Ryland Dress at Anthropologie

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Most Classic:

Oleg Cassini Dress with Chiffon Jacket at David's Bridal

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Amsale Pryce Gown at Anthropologie

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Most Simple:

M.M. LaFleur The Emily Dress at Mmlafleur.com

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For a Festive Affair:

Tadashi Shoji Odette Sequin Dress at Bhldn

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Most Glamorous:

Pisarro Nights Cold Shoulder Ankle-Length Beaded Plus Size Dress at David's Bridal

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Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom

Size Range: 14W-24W | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Length: Tea-Length | Shipping: Free standard shipping | Return Policy: Returns are on a case-by-case basis

If you want something that feels subtle but polished, this matching dress and jacket with delicate beading takes the cake. The scoop neckline and midi-length hemline are flattering, to boot.

Price at time of publish: $259

Teri Jon by Rickie Freeman Floral Jacquard Gown

Saks Fifth

View On Saks Fifth Avenue View On Terijon.com

The luminous jacquard pattern takes this shirtdress to a whole new level as does the bold sash around the waist. The versatility of this dress would work well year-round but we can't help but picture it at a spring black-tie wedding.

Price at time of publish: $860

RM Richards Ribbed Metallic Pantsuit with Necklace

David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

Size Range: Missy: 6-18, Plus: 14W-24W | Materials: Metallic, polyester | Length: Ankle-length | Shipping: Shipping rates vary based on order value; free shipping on orders over $120 | Return policy: Full refund within 7 days

You can never go wrong with a coordinating set—especially in this gorgeous shade of mauve. The sheer jacket sleeves add a touch of playfulness while the sparkly metallic fabric adds some glamour. Plus, this set comes with the pictured necklace to complete your look!

Price at time of publish: $140-$160

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom View On Lordandtaylor.com View On Lyst.com

Size Range: 2-16 | Materials: Rayon | Length: Ankle-length | Shipping: Free standard shipping | Return Policy: Returns are on a case-by-case basis

If the grandmother of the bride has a glamorous flair about her, this sparkling option is a top-notch pick. Thanks to the twinkling beadwork, you'll be sure to shimmer and shine all the way from the aisle to the dance floor. Style it with metallic shoes to complete your look.

Price at time of publish: $268

Courtesy of BHLDN

View On Anthropologie

Size Range: Standard: 0-19, Plus: 20-26 | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: $4.95-$10.95 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again: velvet reigns supreme. This striking style in sumptuous blue velvet features long sleeves, a flattering ruched bodice, and an alluring deep-V neckline. Take your look to the next level with eye-catching accessories like drop earrings and a tennis necklace.

Price at time of publish: $295

Oleg Cassini Embroidered Sheath Dress with Chiffon Jacket

David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

Size Range: 2-16 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Mid-length | Shipping: Shipping rates vary based on order value; free shipping on orders over $120 | Return policy: Full refund within 7 days

There’s something so enduringly elegant about a matching set, which is why this dusty blue sheath tank dress and light chiffon jacket are a perfect pairing for a grandmother of the bride. The dress is embroidered with a floral design making it a fitting choice for a spring or summer wedding.

Price at time of publish: $150

View On Anthropologie View On Saks Fifth Avenue

Size Range: 0-16 | Materials: Polyester| Length: Floor-length | Shipping: $4.95-$10.95 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

For formal occasions, consider this silky stunner from Amsale. The one-shoulder neckline is sophisticated and the deep emerald green is regal—the perfect combination for a very important wedding guest!

Price at time of publish: $495

M.M. LaFleur

View On Mmlafleur.com

Size Range: 0P-16 | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Length: Above the knee | Shipping: Free shipping on orders more than $150; $10 flat rate on orders less than $150 | Return Policy: Full refund within 21 days

If the ceremony is on the casual side, a simple-yet-sleek dress like this flattering option from M.M. LaFleur is a smart option. What's more, you'll get plenty of mileage out of this dress as it can easily be worn for a number of occasions. Add in a string of pearls and kitten heels for good measure.

Price at time of publish: $225

Anthropologie

View On Bhldn

Size Range: 0-18 | Materials: Cotton, nylon, sequins; full stretch polyester lining | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: $4.95-$10.95 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

What better way to celebrate than in a floor-length sparkling gown? This shimmering metallic dress is destined for the dance floor and is an especially fitting choice for a New Year's Eve wedding. For a polished and festive look, style yours with shoulder-grazing earrings and a matching silver clutch.

Price at time of publish: $430

Pisarro Nights Cold Shoulder Ankle-Length Beaded Plus Size Dress

David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

Size Range: 14W-24W | Materials: Rayon | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Shipping rates vary based on order value; free shipping on orders over $120 | Return policy: Full refund within 7 days

For the grandmother who desires a glitzy look, this beaded dress set checks off all the boxes for an elegant wedding outfit. With beading reminiscent of Art Deco design, this shimmering frock is for those who love a vintage-inspired style.

Price at time of publish: $84

Oleg Cassini Three-Quarter Sleeve Velvet Sheath Dress

David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

Size Range: Missy: 2-16, Plus: 14W-24W | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Length: Knee-length | Shipping: Shipping rates vary based on order value; free shipping on orders over $120 | Return policy: Full refund within 7 days

If the wedding in question is happening during the cooler months of the year, a long-sleeve velvet dress is ideal. Plus, the draping on this deep blue iteration is to die for and is beyond figure-flattering.

Price at time of publish: $42

Emilia Wickstead

View On Net-a-Porter

Size Range: UK 6-UK 16 | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Length: Mid-length | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Full refund within 28 days

For a touch of drama, go with this baby-pink midi dress. The cape-effect sleeves, elongating padded shoulders, and body-skimming silhouette all come together for a true wow moment. It pairs beautifully with both colorful and metallic accessories.

Price at time of publish: $1,113

J Kara

View On Amazon

Size Range: 4-24+ | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Return policy varies

The beaded overlay on this dress elevates the entire aesthetic—add in some sparkling earrings and low heels to complete your look. Available in an array of gorgeous colors, this gown is fit for all kinds of formal weddings.

Price at time of publish: $65

Azazie

View On Azazie.com

Size Range: Custom size, 0-30 | Materials: Chiffon, lace | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Free shipping for special occasion dresses; free standard shipping on orders $120+ | Return policy: Returns are available for standard sizes within 30 days. Custom sizes are final sale.

A neutral-hued matching set with old-world elegance—you can’t go wrong with this classic combination. Plus, a corsage will contrast the versatile color beautifully. This style is available in a wide selection of sizes and colors that range from subtle neutrals to bold hues.

Price at time of publish: $179

Oscar de la Renta Belted Embellished Tulle-Trimmed Stretch-Silk Crepe Maxi Dress

Net-A-Porter

View On Net-a-Porter

Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Silk, elastane | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: Shipping rates vary | Return policy: Full refund within 28 days

Although it's the happy couple's big day, it's also a big day for you, so, why not splurge on a designer dress? This Oscar de la Renta gown is the epitome of sophistication and elegance and would be a smart and stylish addition to anyone's formal wardrobe.

Price at time of publish: $4,990

Sachin & Babi Chelsea One-Shoulder Georgette Bias Gown

Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie

Size Range: 0-14 | Materials: Crinkle georgette polyester | Length: Floor-length | Shipping: $4.95-$10.95 standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days

A classic floor-length gown is one of those silhouettes that transcend time and trends—it’s always in style and it works for everyone. This one-shoulder number from Sachin & Babi embodies Old Hollywood glam and is the perfect pick for a wedding guest, particularly a chic grandma.

Price at time of publish: $285

What to Look for in a Grandmother of the Bride or Groom Outfit

Venue and season

When shopping for your grandmother of the bride or groom dress, first consider the wedding venue, season, and formality. Black-tie events call for floor-length gowns and embellished fabrics—we love the Tadashi Shoji Odette Off-Shoulder Sequin Mesh Column Gown and the Oscar de la Renta Belted Embellished Tulle-Trimmed Maxi Dress. On the other hand, tea-length dresses in light and airy prints are more suited for an outdoor spring ceremony, such as the Oleg Cassini Embroidered Sheath Dress.

Color scheme and Silhouette

While you should embrace your personal style, it's worth thinking about the wedding's color scheme and aesthetic. Not sure what dress silhouette will work best for you? We recommend experimenting with universally flattering silhouettes like A-line, fit-to-flare, and wrap dresses to find your perfect fit

FAQ

What are some popular choices for grandmother of the groom or bride outfits?

Some popular choices for grandmothers are two-piece sets, pantsuits, sheath dresses, tea-length frocks, long-sleeve silhouettes, embellished gowns, and cocktail dresses.
What colors should I avoid wearing?

If the bride is wearing white, it’s best to avoid wearing white or any color that closely resembles white–such as cream, ivory, or beige. If you're unsure about your dress choice, run it by the couple before purchasing.
What are some of the most comfortable grandmother of the groom or bride outfits?

The most comfortable outfit for you will mostly depend on your body type. Certain silhouettes like sheath and A-line are flattering and easy to wear while pantsuits and two-piece sets can offer more freedom and flexibility. Keep in mind that you'll be sitting down for the ceremony and dancing at the reception, so make sure your outfit feels just as comfortable sitting as it does standing.

Why Trust Us

Nicole Kliest is a fashion, travel, and food & wine writer based in New York City. With over nine years of experience in the digital publishing industry, her work has appeared on sites including Who What Wear, The Zoe Report, Cools, Popsugar, Harper's Bazaar, Elle.

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