Black and gold mother of the bride dresses

Glisten from head to toe in these looks from Nordstrom, BHLDN, and more.

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Photo by Kaley from Kansas

A wedding is always a special occasion worth dressing up for, and if it's your child's big day, that's all the more reason to dress your best! As the mother of the bride (or groom), you play a significant role in this celebration, and many moms choose to show off their V.I.P status by shining bright in a gold ensemble. A gold mother-of-the-bride dress is truly a lovely choice as it fits nicely into many wedding color palettes, and works for a variety of seasons and locales.

What's more, gold has forever been a popular hue for mother-of-the-bride dresses, so you'll have many options to choose from, in varying styles like formal designs, A-line silhouettes, and tea-length hemlines.

As with any wedding shopping experience, however, be sure to think about how the silhouette, color, and fabric will pair with the venue, season, and overall wedding style. It also goes without saying that your outfit should be a reflection of your own personal style, and should make you feel comfortable and confident all day long.

To help you find the best gold outfit for the big day, we sourced dresses from some of the most trusted brands, in a variety of fabrics, styles, and formality levels. Read on for the best gold mother-of-the-bride dresses for every style, body type, and budget.

Runs: True to size | Sizes: 2-16 | Material: Polyester and metallic fibers

If comfort is your main concern, we recommend this pleated dress from Connected Apparel. This ankle-skimming dress has a long column silhouette, and features a V-shaped neckline and empire waistline that enhances your natural figure.

Runs: True to Size | Sizes: 2-16 | Material: Polyester, spandex

This stunning cap sleeve dress is a fresh option for any wedding. The head-to-toe sequins will catch the light from any angle, and the daring skirt slit will allow you to put your best foot forward.

Runs: Runs small; order one size up | Sizes: XXS-XXL | Material: Nylon

For a tea-length option, we're loving this embellished number from Dress the Population. The textural pattern of the shimmering sequins adds structure and definition, while the flattering fit-and-flare silhouette hugs you in all the right places.

Runs: True to size | Sizes: 0-16 | Material: Metallized Polyester

Enter the room dripping in gold in this show-stopping, off-the-shoulder metallic gown. The shine is produced from the fabric alone–not by additional beaded embellishments—which means this dress is a lightweight option that will keep you comfortable.

Runs: True to size | Sizes: 0-18 | Material: Polyester

We love how the golden floral embellishments cascade from the top of the neckline down to the hem of the skirt. This dress looks beautiful on its own, but can be accessorized with delicate gold jewelry for a look that is both stylish and elegant.

Runs: True to size | Sizes: 0-16 | Material: Chiffon 

For just a touch of gold, take a look at this glamorous chiffon gown from Marchesa Notte. The blouson sleeves and A-line skirt provide great movement, while the gold foil accents will allow you to stand out in the best way possible.

Runs: True to size | Sizes: 2-16 | Material: Polyester

An eye-catching color and figure-loving fit will always make for an undeniable fashionable combo, and this dress has both in spades. The drape of the ruching is a show-stopper for sure, but we also love the beautiful bronze shade of the fabric.

Runs: Runs large; order one size down | Sizes: 2-18 | Material: Polyester and nylon

This sequin A-line gown is sure to steal the show at your next special event. The top of the dress is beaded with sparkling gold embellishments and sheer three-quarter sleeves. Additionally, the belt is adjustable (and removable) providing the opportunity to cinch in the waist for a perfect fit-and-flare look.

Runs: True to Size | Sizes: 0-30 | Material: Sequin floral lace

For that classic mother-of-the-bride look, you can't go wrong with this sequin floral lace gown. The bateau neckline is a classic style and pairs well with simple, understated accessories.

Runs: True to Size | Sizes: 0-20 | Material: 100% Polyester

From its elbow-length flutter sleeves to its soft mermaid skirt, this exquisite hand-beaded gown by Adrianna Papell is full of chic details. What's more, this stunning dress is embroidered with delicate florals for an elegant, yet elevated, mother-of-the-bride look. 

Runs: A little large; take one size smaller than normal | Sizes: 0-18 | Material: Cotton, nylon, sequins

Tadashi Shoji's Odette gown has exquisite allover floral embroidery, set against a luxurious honey-colored canvas that has the ability to elevate any mother of the bride. Crafted with a boatneck and slight cap sleeves, the fit-and-flare silhouette is timeless, yet distinctive, and perfect for a special occasion like a wedding.

Runs: True to Size | Sizes: 0-20 | Material: Polyester and nylon

For a cocktail-length gold dress, our pick is this black and gold metallic sheath from Adrianna Papell. Pair this look with bold statement gold jewelry and metallic heels to really make it pop.

Runs: True to size | Sizes: 0-16 | Material: Polyester

There's something about a pleated one-shoulder dress that feels incredibly royal and grand. This gown is sure to command attention, as the long draped sleeves trail behind as you walk, in addition to the full-length pleated skirt that adds movement to the overall look.

Runs: True to size; cut for a loose fit | Sizes: S-XL | Material: Silk, lurex 

For mothers of the bride looking to make a stylish statement, check out this jacquard maxi dress with a metallic gold finish. It adds an evening-appropriate twist, to an otherwise relaxed silhouette, by showcasing a golden multi-color floral print pattern.

Runs: True to size | Sizes: 14W-24W | Material: Metallic organza

For the mother of the bride who'd like a little bit of drama, opt for a gown with a daring slit like this one from Mac Duggal. The flowy, draped skirt provides a trendy design, and the pleated bodice and one-shoulder sleeve allow for a flattering fit.

Runs: True to size | Sizes: S-XL | Material: Polyester

Modern meets classic in this open-back, V-neck dress. The fabric sparkles like nothing you've ever seen before, and the tiered skirt silhouette is equal parts old-world glamour and contemporary fashion.

Runs: True to size | Sizes: 2-16 | Material: Polyester

Get dressed up in glitter and gold in this eye-catching cocktail dress. From the floral embroidery to the fitted bodice, every inch of this look is covered in sequins, ensuring you'll sparkle from every angle.

Runs: True to Size | Sizes: 4-18 | Material: Polyester, metallic

Simple, classic, and timeless, this golden off-the-shoulder column gown is as glamorous as it is comfortable. Style with sparkling gold or diamond jewelry for a one-of-a-kind look.

What to Look for When Shopping for a Gold Mother-of-the-Bride Dress

With an unlimited number of gold dresses available today, it may be overwhelming to find a gold mother-of-the-bride gown that is perfect for you. So, when shopping for your look, consider the season, venue, and formality of the wedding first. For example, full-length gold gowns are more appropriate for a formal wedding in the winter, while cocktail-length gowns are a match for a daytime, semi-formal spring celebration.

Once you've figured out the style that works best for the season and wedding dress code, the rest is all about personal preference. Choose a dress that will make you feel confident and comfortable all night long, and one you'll love years after your child has said "I do."

FAQ

• How do you style a gold mother-of-the-bride dress?

  It should come as no surprise that gold dresses and gold jewelry work exceptionally well together, but you shouldn't feel limited to just one shade. Rose gold or mixed metals can also pair beautifully with a gold dress, and when it comes to footwear, nude or black heels are a classic pairing as well.

• Can I wear a gold dress to a daytime wedding?

  While gold gowns are most common at evening weddings, they're also perfectly acceptable at a daytime affair. Look for dresses with floral embellishments, and style your look with neutral-toned accessories to make your ensemble more daytime appropriate.

• Where can I buy a gold mother-of-the-bride dress?

  All of your favorite formal retailers more than likely have gold gowns that are perfect to wear to a wedding. For us, some of our favorite places to shop include Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, BHLDN, and Farfetch, among others.

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writer Cristina Montemayor has been writing for Brides for over two years, covering beauty, fashion, and relationships. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, wedding guests, wedding parties, and more.