The 21 Best Mother-of-the-Groom Dresses for Every Style and Dress Code

1 year ago 761

While the most raved-about dress at your son's upcoming wedding is bound to be the bride's, there's no reason why the groom's mother shouldn't get to have her own fashion moment. The best way to do just that? With a statement-making mother-of-the-groom dress that's equal parts stylish and comfortable. If you don't know where to start or what type of gown to look for when shopping for your son's forthcoming nuptials, our editors have you covered.

When shopping for the perfect mother-of-the-groom dress, it's essential to consider your son's wedding dress code, the venue, and the color palette. These factors can help you narrow down your ideal ensemble, whether coveting all the glamour for a black-tie affair or searching for light and effortless styles for a backyard wedding. To help with your search, we researched and rounded up the best mother-of-the-groom dresses to suit any style, body type, and budget.

Credit: AW Bridal

Yes, you can get a custom-made mother-of-the-groom dress at a great budget price. Simply enter your measurements on AW Bridal's site, and you'll be custom-fit to a dress in your exact size (at no extra cost). Choose from 25 colors to best complement your skin tone and the wedding palette.

Size Range: 0-14 | Materials: Satin charmeuse | Shades: 25

Credit: Net-A-Porter

This Emilia Wickstead midi with a chic strapless neckline is for the mom who wants an effortless look without too many bells and whistles. The thick satin gives it an extra-formal look that's perfect for cocktail and formal occasions.

Size Range: UK 4-UK 18 | Materials: Polyester | Shades: 2

This one-shoulder gown comes in a range of gorgeous hues, so it works for several seasons and styles (we're partial to the slate gray for its versatility). The draped satin fabric adds a touch of sheen that won't feel too out there for a mom who prefers an understated look.

Size Range: 0-18 | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Shades: 2

Credit: Bloomingdale's

Any black-tie affair requires mothers of the groom to bring their A-game, meaning this dramatic, one-shoulder column gown is a necessity. It comes in navy and bright pink, so you can choose your favorite depending on how bold you want your look to be.

Size Range: 0-18 | Materials: Polyester, polyurethane | Shades: 2

Credit: Nordstrom

The romantic feel of this gown reflects the tone of the wedding day, whether it's a laid-back boho event or a more formal affair. It comes in a variety of deep jewel tones and features a low slit for a pop of leg. We're obsessed with the V-neckline and empire waist, which feels chic and timeless.

Size Range: 0X-5X | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Shades: 4

Credit: Anthropologie

Likely one of the most versatile dresses you'll own, this one-shoulder crepe dress is perfect for moms looking for a gown with a sleek, tailored fit. The design is clean and simple, so it offers the perfect blank canvas for show-stopping accessories.

Size Range: XXS-3X | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Shades: 6

Credit: David's Bridal

Opt for a dress with a jacket if you want a more conservative fit that still gives you the option to show off your arms. This versatile combo set offers multiple ways to style your day-of ensemble, and it's also ideal for spring and fall weddings when evenings can get chilly.

Size Range: 6-18 | Materials: Polyester, nylon, spandex | Shades: 2

Credit: Amazon

Go full-glam with this gorgeous gown, which comes outfitted with sheer lace cap sleeves, shiny embroidery, and a flattering fit-and-flare silhouette. It's available in a dozen colors to complement the wedding palette and has a matching shawl.

Size Range: 6-20, petite and regular | Materials: Polyester | Shades: 12

Credit: Meshki

Black gowns are excellent for a minimalist mother of the groom, and we're especially fond of this simple Meshki option. Its straightforward silhouette and chic boatneck look elegant and effortless, and the side slit ensures you'll walk easily in the gown on the big day.

Size Range: XXS-3XL | Materials: Polyester | Shades: 1

Credit: Azazie

Show some shoulder with this unique halter-neck option from Azazie. Although it's outfitted with everything from beads and sequins to lace embroidery, the gown still feels understated due to its monochromatic palette.

Size Range: 0-30 | Materials: Stretch crepe, lace | Shades: 9

Credit: Nordstrom

A semi-formal wedding calls for a sophisticated but slightly less dressy look than a black-tie wedding does—and we think this long-sleeved beaded number fits the bill. Available in three shades, this knee-length dress can be worn to a city hall wedding, a cocktail party, and everything in between.

Size Range: 2-18 | Materials: Rayon | Shades: 3

Credit: Nordstrom

This stylish gown features an uncomplicated silhouette and a range of color options to fit different wedding palettes. We love how the exaggerated ruffle detail on the bodice offers just the right amount of drama.

Size Range: 0-18 | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Shades: 4

Credit: Nordstrom

If you want to splurge on a designer option, you can't go wrong with this ultra-chic gown. It features a modern mock neck, cutaway shoulders, and a flattering drape that will make you feel like a goddess. Even better? The dress has just the right amount of stretch, so it's also a comfortable fit.

Size Range: 2-16 | Materials: Polyamide, Elastane | Shades: 1

Credit: Net-A-Porter

Between the stunning muted pink shade, column-style skirt, and thick cloqué material, this Emilia Wickstead gown is worth the splurge for your son's upcoming wedding. The minimal, romantic design speaks for itself—you won't need too many dramatic accessories to bring your ensemble to life.

Size Range: UK 4-UK 18 | Materials: Polyester, silk | Shades: 1

Credit: Nordstrom

This delicate dress is perfect for any spring or summer event. Featuring oversized cape sleeves and a figure-flattering A-line silhouette, it’s a piece you’ll reach for again and again. The cheerful color and vibrant floral print add the perfect finishing touch.

Size Range: 4-24 | Materials: Polyester | Shades: 1

Credit: Nordstrom

Floral motifs can work with a range of seasons and wedding styles. The dark navy and silver palette of this flowy mesh gown makes it appropriate for everything from a New Year's Eve wedding to a summertime affair. The sequined detailing adds a bit of sparkle, but still feels understated.

Size Range: 4-16 | Materials: Polyester | Shades: 1

Credit: Nordstrom

This ultra-flattering dress features a deep V-neck and corset design that helps the fabric fit in all the right places. We love the subtle crisscross design across the bust and torso, which makes the gown feel even more dramatic.

Size Range: 2-20 | Materials: Polyester | Shades: 3

Credit: Nordstrom

A dress with sleeves is ideal for a cold-weather wedding or anyone seeking a bit more coverage. This allover beaded design channels Studio 54 glamour with a modern twist. The tucked blouson waist and flared hemline keep the look feeling fresh.

Size Range: 12-18 | Materials: Polyester | Shades: 1

Credit: Nordstrom

Make a dramatic entrance in this bold, statement-making gown. Available in black and in a range of pastel hues, this dress shows off your shoulders and back. Pair the halter neck with a pair of chandelier earrings for a drop-dead gorgeous look.

Size Range: 4-16 | Materials: Polyester | Shades: 4

Credit: Anthropologie

This elegant, ultra-feminine gown is ideal for your son's nuptials in a garden setting. The corset-style top is classic and comfortable (and still conservative), and the back skirt slit ensures walking around any outdoor venue is seamless.

Size Range: 00-18 | Materials: Polyester | Shades: 1

Credit: Bloomingdale's

A high neckline isn't the only unique feature of this Staud gown. Its sheer tulle overlay and gorgeous brown shade give it a fashion-forward feel that an on-trend mother of the groom will obsess over (and feel comfortable in).

Size Range: XS-XL | Materials: Polyester, spandex | Shades: 1

What to Look for in a Mother-of-the-Groom Dress

Season: The season and location of the venue will significantly affect what type of mother-of-the-groom dress to wear. Stick to deep jewel tones and rich fabrics like velvet and satin for fall or winter weddings. For summer weddings or tropical destinations, we recommend mother-of-the-groom dresses in lighter fabrics and whimsical designs, perhaps with ruffles or short sleeves. For spring or fall, consider a versatile style with a coordinating jacket or wrap to stay comfortable if the temperature dips.
Dress Code: It’s also essential to pick a mother-of-the-groom dress that showcases your style and follows the wedding dress code and color palette. If the wedding calls for black-tie attire, opt for a formal mother-of-the-groom dress, like a floor-length gown or pantsuit. If the wedding is more casual, you can wear a shorter dress.
Shipping and Return Policies: Although online shopping has many perks, it can be tricky to tell exactly what a particular dress will look like in person. The solution? Thoroughly read product descriptions and customer reviews, and make sure to review retailers' shipping and return policies before purchasing. Since so many retailers offer fast shipping and free returns, you can easily return any dresses you don’t love.

FAQ

To be safe, we suggest you start shopping for your mother-of-the-groom dress at least six months before the wedding to allow for any shipping delays or changes.
A good rule of thumb is to avoid wearing white or any hue that might resemble the bride’s wedding gown. It's a good idea to use the couple's wedding palette and the season as a guide when you're searching for a mother-of-the-groom dress.
While the couple will surely want you to feel your best in your dress, having a conversation with the bride and groom about your mother-of-the-groom dress ahead of time can help set expectations and narrow down your options.

Why Trust Brides

Maddie Barber is a BRIDES writer and shopping expert. She scrutinized several BRIDES-favorite retailers to determine the best mother-of-the-groom dresses for all types of moms, only settling on the chicest options for BRIDES readers.

The 21 Best Mother-of-the-Groom Dresses for Every Style and Dress Code

What to Look for in a Mother-of-the-Groom Dress

Why Trust Brides

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