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Photo by Madison Emily Hare Photography
Watching a son or daughter say "I do" is one of the most special moments in a parent's life. And while the momentous occasion is full of excitement, there are also some considerations you'll need to make. One of the largest of which is what to wear on the big day. Between greeting old friends, giving speeches, and taking photos, your outfit will be front and center for years to come, so you'll want to look your absolute best.
Pastel hues, floral prints, and light, bright colors are especially popular for springtime events. While some parents are advised to wear shades from the couple’s color palette, others are encouraged to wear whatever makes them feel most comfortable. By paying attention to the venue, formality, and aesthetic of the day, we guarantee finding an outfit for a spring wedding is easier than you think.
To help narrow down your options, we’ve rounded up 20 of the best spring mother of the bride or groom dresses sourced from our favorite sellers. From casual midis to formal gowns, these looks will make you feel as special as your VIP status on the big day and beyond.
Off-the-Shoulder Favorite
Oleg Cassini Crepe Off-The-Shoulder Dress
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Courtesy of David's Bridal
Size Range: 2-24 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester, crepe
Subtle off-the-shoulder sleeves and a slightly asymmetrical neckline turn this classic sheath gown from Oleg Cassini into a look that's truly captivating. We especially love the modest skirt slit that'll add extra movement to each step as you walk down the aisle on the special day.
Price at time of publish: $180
Best Cocktail Dress
Azazie Cecily MBD Dress
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Courtesy of Azazie
Size Range: 0-30, custom sizing | Length: Knee-length | Materials: Crepe
Coming in over 20 different hues, this knee-length cocktail dress from Azazie is an easy choice for any semi-formal celebration. The pleated neckline and targeted ruching compliment every figure, while the stretch crepe hugs in all the right places.
Price at time of publish: $149
Best One-Shoulder
Adrianna Papell Floral Hand-Beaded Gown
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Courtesy of Adrianna Papell
Size Range: 0-20 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester
This sweeping column gown from Adrianna Papell has it all from a striking one-shoulder neckline to gold 3D floral beadwork that trickles down the skirt. Pair the stone-colored dress with dangly gold earrings and heels to really make the details pop.
Price at time of publish: $249 for size 2
Tulle Favorite
Needle & Thread Amalie Bodice Ankle Gown
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Courtesy of Needle & Thread
Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Ankle-length | Materials: Polyester, tulle
Whether you select this style in purple, pink, burgundy, or yellow, we can't get over the dainty details and flowy skirt of this elevated tulle gown. The sheer sleeves provide arm coverage, but won't get too warm during springtime weddings, and the sequin details will catch the light as you celebrate the night away.
Price at time of publish: $419
For a Garden Wedding
Mac Duggal Angelica Midi Dress
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Courtesy of BHLDN
Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Midi-length | Materials: Polyester
Floral prints and garden weddings go hand-in-hand, and we simply adore this midi from Mac Duggal for flower-filled celebrations. The shorter, twirly skirt feels feminine and fresh, while the sheer sleeves and beadwork detailing nod to the formality of the day.
Best Ruffles
Needle & Thread Willow Gown
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Courtesy of Needle & Thread
Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Tulle, polyester
Playful ruffles are a springtime staple, and the Willow gown from Needle & Thread is giving us all the festive vibes. The elongating V-neckline is balanced by fluttery sleeves and endless layers of the softest tulle tiers and ruffles. The style also comes in pink and blue if purple isn't for you.
Price at time of publish: $729
For Lace Lovers
DB Studio V-Neck Lace Sleeveless Dress
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Courtesy of David's Bridal
Size Range: 2-24 | Length: Midi-length | Materials: Polyester, lace
Hitting at just below the knee, this simple lace A-line from DB Studio is a vision for spring weddings and outdoor events. The sleeveless silhouette and V-neckline will keep you from overheating, and the hidden pockets will help you keep track of your belongings as you mix and mingle with guests.
Price at time of publish: $150 for missy
Most Whimsical
Valentino Gathered Silk Chiffon Gown
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Courtesy of Moda Operandi
Size Range: IT 38-46 | Length: Floor | Materials: Chiffon
From the gathered bodice to the flowing shashes at the shoulders, this floaty chiffon gown from Valentino is full of whimsical, romantic touches. The empire waist flatters the figure, and the soft purple hue will radiate at any spring celebration.
Best Velvet
Revelry Giselle Dress
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Revelry
Size Range: 0-32 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Velvet
Velvet isn't always a given at springtime weddings, but if the weather permits, the luxurious and unexpected fabric can really set your look apart. Revelry's Giselle dress has a V-neckline, short sleeves, and a slit to keep you from feeling stuffy.
Price at time of publish: $189
For a Daytime Wedding
Markarian Laurel Floral Faille Dress
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Courtesy of Markarian
Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Midi-length | Materials: Cotton
Daytime events typically call for shorter hemlines and more casual styles, but we love how this pretty puff sleeve midi still feels supremely special. The periwinkle hue is reminiscent of a stunning spring day, and the all-over floral faille pattern nods to the vibrancy of the season.
Price at time of publish: $1,795
For a Glamorous Wedding
Galina Signature Sequin Halter Gown
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Courtesy of David's Bridal
Size Range: 2-16 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester, sequin
Dazzle guests at a glitz and glam wedding in this gorgeous Galina Signature frock. The flattering halter neckline, open back, and side slit show just enough skin to keep you cool in the springtime heat, and the intricate pattern of beads and sequins shine like sunshine across this glimmering gold gown.
Price at time of publish: $400
Best Floral Print
Adrianna Papell Floral Matelasse Gown
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Courtesy of Adrianna Papell
Size Range: 0-20 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Viscose, polyester
This texture cap sleeve gown from Adrianna Papell is a springtime wedding favorite, thanks to its art-inspired floral print that seems straight out of a painting. The mauve sash highlights the waist and the subtle metallic shimmer along the fabric gives an additional touch of elegance to the special gown.
Price at time of publish: $220
Satin Favorite
BHLDN Leila Satin Charmeuse Maxi Dress
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Anthropologie
Size Range: 0-26 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Satin, polyester
Satin has become exceedingly popular for spring celebrations, and BHLDN's Leila—which comes in 11 colors—is an elegant choice for almost any venue. Wear your hair up and pair the dress with some statement earrings to really make the look your own.
Price at time of publish: $248
Boldest Hue
Taller Marmo Long-Sleeved Cape Gown
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Courtesy of Farfetch
Size Range: XXS-XL | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Acetate, viscose
If the big day is full of bright colors and cheerful decor, don this Taller Marmo dress for an extra pop of pizazz. The sunshine yellow hue and dramatic cape design demand attention in all the right ways. Wear gold accessories to further play into the warm tones of the gown.
For a Casual Wedding
Kay Unger New York Pleated Floral-Print Midi Dress
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Courtesy of Neiman Marcus
Size Range: 2-16 | Length: Knee-length | Materials: Polyester
Whether it's a backyard wedding or a barn celebration, a casual event still needs a special look. This floral print Kay Unger dress hits at the knee and looks just as great with flats as it does with heels. Pair it with a jean jacket for an added rustic touch.
Price at time of publish: $348
Best Matching Jacket
Jessica Howard Floral Lace Embellished Waist Ruffled 3/4 Sleeve Scoop Neck Chiffon 2-Piece Jacket Gown
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Courtesy of Dillards
Size Range: 6-12 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester, lace, chiffon
This strapless scoop-neck, chiffon dress is stunning on its own with an embellished waist detail and front ruffle. However, the best part is the matching bolero style lace jacket that gives you two looks in one.
For an Evening Wedding
Theia Sienna Off-the-Shoulder Gown
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Courtesy of Theia
Size Range: 0-16 | Length: Floor | Materials: Satin
An evening wedding usually makes you gravitate toward jewel-tone hues and luxe fabrics, which is why we adore this off-the-shoulder satin gown from Theia. The column style features a pleated bodice and waistline for a flattering silhouette.
Price at time of publish: $795
Best Halter
Tadashi Shoji Warren Cutout Dress
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Courtesy of Tadashi Shoji
Size Range: XXS-XL | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Crepe
The classic halter got an elevated twist with Tadashi Shoji's Warren gown, complete with cap sleeves for extra arm coverage. The standout feature is the cutouts in the bodice that pull the eyes up before billowing down into a full crepe skirt.
Price at time of publish: $398
For an Elegant Event
Solace London Calla One-Shoulder Dress
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Courtesy of Farfetch
Size Range: XXS-XL | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester, satin
Formal affairs and black-tie events mean dressing to the nines, and Solace London's Calla dress fits the bill for any fancy celebration. Between the asymmetrical neckline and white satin draped detailing at the waist, you'll be one of the best dressed on the big day.
Best Silhouette
Marchesa Notte Plunging Floral Sequin Tiered Gown
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Courtesy of Bergdorf Goodman
Size Range: 2-12 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Polyester
This Marchesa Notte dress is one of the most playful silhouettes for a springtime look due to its tiered skirt, floral print pattern, and all-over sequin embellishments. Complete your look with chandelier earrings and colorful heels to match the gown's vibrant print.
Price at time of publish: $1,095
What to Look for in Spring Mother of the Bride or Groom Dresses
When narrowing down your day-of clothing choices, your biggest consideration will likely be the venue. Depending on the location—whether indoor or outdoor—and the month, a spring wedding could be chilly or it could be toasty. You'll want to look up the typical temperature for the area to get an idea of what to expect, so you can pick appropriate fabrics and sleeve lengths. Chiffon and crepe are popular warm-weather choices, as is satin. As for sleeves, it could be a good idea to consider a sleeveless, short sleeve, cap sleeve, or flutter sleeve style, especially if the event will take place in a warmer outdoor setting. When in doubt, you can always throw on a jacket if you get cold as the evening goes on.
Another major consideration when selecting a spring mother of the bride or groom dress is the color. Before narrowing in on a specific hue, it's a good idea to talk to the couple of honor to see if they have a preference or suggestions. Some couples like their parents to dress in similar or complimentary colors to the wedding party.
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.