The 17 Best Mother-of-the-Groom Dresses for Every Style and Budget

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People wearing mother of the groom dresses on a light red background

Brides / Amelia Manley

While the most raved about dress at your son's upcoming wedding is bound to be the bride's wedding gown, the mother of the groom deserve to have your own fashion moment with a statement-making dress. The goal: an outfit that's both stylish and comfortable.

When shopping for the perfect mother of the groom dress, it's important to keep in mind the dress code, venue, and color palette. From fashion-forward velvet to elegant necklines to body-hugging styles, you'll be dreaming up excuses to wear your ensemble again and again. Whether you're coveting glitz and glam for a black-tie affair or searching for light and effortless styles for a backyard wedding, we've researched and rounded up the best mother-of-the-groom dresses to suit any style, body type, and budget.

If you've tried on a few dresses in your lifetime, then we probably don't need to explain what a difference expertly-placed ruching makes.This style from La Femme cinches you at the waist and falls effortlessly into a gorgeous, flowing hemline.

Size Range: 0-18 | Material(s): Polyester | Fit: Runs large, size down one size | Shade(s): Three

Best Halter-Neck

BHLDN Ruby Satin Charmeuse Dress

Show off your shoulders with this stunning gown that features a dramatic halter-neck silhouette. This luxurious satin style exudes Old Hollywood glamour and is available in six colors to complement any wedding palette.

Size Range: 0-16 (regular and plus-size available) | Material(s): Polyester | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): 10

Best Metallic

Tadashi Shoji Odette Sequin Dress

Shimmering metallics are always a good idea, especially for formal occasions like weddings. Whether you're attending a black-tie, winter, or New Year's Eve wedding, this dazzling number is a no-brainer.

Size Range: 0-18 | Material(s): Cotton, nylon, sequins; stretch polyester lining | Fit: Fits large, size down one size; if you have broad shoulders, take normal size | Shade(s): Two

Best with Jacket

Alex Evenings Scalloped Sequin Lace and Satin Jacket Dress

Woman wearing Alex Evenings Scalloped Sequin Lace and Satin Jacket Dress

David's Bridal

If you're look for a more conservative fit that still gives the option to flaunt your arms, opt for a dress with a jacket. This type of set is a great choice for weddings in the spring or fall when evenings are chilly. We also love this midnight blue sequined set for a dressed-up New Year's Eve wedding.

Size Range: 6-18 | Material(s): Polyester, nylon, spandex | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Two

Best Budget

AW Romula Dress

Woman wearing AW Romula Dress

AW Bridal

Believe it or not, but for less than $100, you can get a dress that's custom-made just for you. All you have to do is enter your measurements online and the gown will be fit to your exact size (at no extra cost). This pared-back, satin style is an elegant option for those who rather skip beading and other embellishments. The jewel neckline beautifully shows off accessories—and you can choose from 25 different shades to compliment your skin tone and style.

Size Range: 0-14 | Material(s): Satin Charmeuse | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): 25

Best for a Winter Wedding

Adrianna Papell MOG Dress

Woman wearing Adrianna Papell Hand Beaded Floral Godet Gown

Adrianna Papell

Dripping in crystal embroidery, this shimmering Adrianna Papell beaded gown is party-ready. Available in six different hues depending on the season (think blush for spring or plum for an autumn ceremony), it's effortless fancy without a lot of fuss. Pair it with strappy silver sandals and chandelier earrings to complete your look.

Size Range: 0-20 (regular and plus size available) | Material(s): Polyester | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Four

Best Off-the-Shoulder

Amsale Pryce Gown

Amsale Pryce Off-Shoulder Satin Column Gown

Amsale

What could be more sophisticated than an elongating, floor-length dress with a draped asymmetrical neckline? We recommend wearing this look with a sleek updo to really show off your shoulders. Bold earrings or a statement ring are all you need for the final touches.

Size Range: 0-16 | Material(s): 100% polyester | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Nine

Best Vintage-Inspired

Adrianna Papell Blouson Gown

Woman wearing Adrianna Papell Beaded Blouson Gown

Bloomingdale

For the mother of the groom who loves a little vintage flair, this art deco-inspired gown is for you. Designed with a supremely flattering blouson bodice, boat neckline, and body-skimming skirt, this one fits like a dream.

Size Range: 0-20 (regular and plus-size available) | Material(s): 100% polyester | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Nine

Best Pantsuit

Oleg Cassini Paintsuit

Woman wearing Oleg Cassini Sequin Lace and Jersey Three-Piece Pantsuit

David's Bridal

We love a good three-piece set as it feels like two outfits in one. This chic pantsuit features a sheer draped jacket with medium coverage that's perfect for cooler weather. The sleeveless sequin top and slightly flared pants are as comfortable as loungewear but feel dressed up for the occasion.

Size Range: 4-16 (regular and plus-size available) | Material(s): Nylon, polyester, spandex | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Three

Most Elegant

Theia Valencia Flutter-Sleeve Satin Gown

Theia Valencia Flutter-Sleeve Satin Gown in Navy

If you combine flutter sleeves with expertly placed draping and a gathered waistline, you'll have yourself a very stylish and flattering dress. This stunning gown also features a dramatic V-neckline and a ruffled hem with an elongating front slit.

Size Range: 0-16 | Material(s): Satin | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Navy

Best Plus-Size

Kiyonna Paris Pleated Sequin Gown

Woman wearing Kiyonna Paris Pleated Sequin Gown

Kiyonna

This polished number from Kiyonna (which is solely a plus-size brand) will certainly turn heads at a more formal evening wedding. Pair with sequined heels to match the sparkly bodice and simple silver accessories to accent the look without adding too much extra bling.

Size Range: 0X(10-12)-5X(30-32) | Material(s): Spandex, polyester, nylon | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Two

Best with Sleeves

Oleg Cassini Off-the-Shoulder Lace Gown

Woman wearing Oleg Cassini Off-the-Shoulder V-Neck Ruched Lace Gown

David's Bridal

Equal parts sophisticated and romantic, this formal dress features exquisite details like sheer sleeves adorned with 3D floral appliqués, a décolletage-baring neckline, and side ruching for a flattering fit. Crafted out of a polyester, spandex, and nylon blend, the gown is body-hugging in all the right ways.

Size Range: 4-22 | Material(s): Polyester, nylon, spandex | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Four

Most Glamorous

Alex Evenings Long Fit and Flare Dress

Woman wearing Alex Evenings Long Fit and Flare Dress

Amazon

Go glam with this gorgeous gown—we love the sheer lace cap sleeves, shiny embroidery, and flattering fit-and-flare silhouette. It's available in a range of colors depending on your wedding palette and comes with a matching shawl.

Size Range: 6-20, Petit and regular | Material(s): Polyester | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): 12

Best Short

Pissaro Nights Beaded Cocktail Dress

Woman wearing Pissaro Nights Beaded V-neck Cocktail Dress

Nordstrom

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

Size Range: 2-18 | Material(s): Rayon | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Three

Best Modest

Teri Jon by Rickie Freeman Floral Gown

Teri Jon by Rickie Freeman Floral Jacquard Gown

Saks Fifth

About as chic and refined as they come, this gown is crafted out of a shimmering brocade fabric that's accented with a graphic floral pattern. It would be right at home at anything from a semi-formal garden wedding to and elegant black-tie fete.

Size Range: 2-22 | Material(s): 73% polyester, 27% metallic; 100% polyester lining | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Six

Best Cape-Effect

Talbot Runhof Asymmetric Cape-Effect Gown

Woman wearing Talbot Runhof Asymmetric Cape-Effect Stretch-Lamé Gown

Net-A-Porter

Glide down the aisle in this truly regal gown from Talbot Runhof. With a beautiful emerald hue, this statement-making dress is ideal for a fall or winter black-tie wedding. The metallic-stretch fabric will hug your curves, while remaining comfortable well into the night.

Size Range: 2-20 | Material(s): Polyester | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Green

Best Tea length

Oleg Cassini Tea Length Two-Piece

Woman wearing Oleg Cassini Tea Length Lace and Chiffon Mock Two-Piece

David's Bridal

Available in several pretty pastel shades, we love this tea length two-piece for a spring wedding. The longer sleeves are ideal for seasonal weather that can easily go from warm to chilly.

Size Range: 2-24 | Material(s): Polyester | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Three

What to Look For in a Mother of the Groom Outfit

  • The Season: The season and location of the venue will greatly impact what kind of outfit to wear. For fall or winter weddings, it's a good idea to stick to deep jewel tones and rich fabrics like velvet and satin. For summer or a wedding taking place in a tropical destination, we recommend lighter fabrics and whimsical designs with ruffles and short sleeves. And for anything in between, you might want to go with a style with a jacket, in case you get chilly when temperatures drop
  • Dress Code: It’s also important to pick an outfit that not only showcases your personal style but follows the wedding’s dress code and color palette. If the wedding calls for black-tie attire, make sure you opt for a formal outfit like a floor-length gown or pantsuit. If the wedding is more casual, you can go with a shorter dress.
  • Shipping & Return Policies: Although online shopping comes with its many perks, it can be tricky to tell exactly what a certain dress will look like in person. The solution? Thoroughly read product descriptions–right down to the fabric type and customer reviews. And since so many retailers offer fast shipping and free returns, you can easily send back any dresses you don’t love–just make sure to always review a retailer's shipping and return policy.
FAQ
  • When should I start shopping for my mother of the groom outfit?

    To be on the safe side, we suggest that you start shopping for your dress at least six months before the wedding to allow for any shipping delays or alterations.

  • What colors should a mother of the groom avoid wearing?

    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 an outfit.

  • Do I have to run my mother of the groom outfit by the couple?

    While the couple will surely want you to feel your best in your dress, having a conversation ahead of time can help set expectations and narrow down your options.

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writer Sophie Moore is a former fashion editor at Brides and is an expert in all things bridal attire, from couture wedding gowns to the perfect "something blue" accessory. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, wedding guests, bridal parties, and more.

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