Brides / Chloe Jeong
While the most raved about dress at your son's upcoming wedding is bound to be the bride's wedding dress, you still deserve to have your own fashion moment with a mother of the groom dress that makes you feel stylish and confident.
When shopping for the perfect mother of the groom dress, it's important to keep in mind what silhouettes work best for you and what goes well with the wedding aesthetic. 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're looking for something ultra-elegant, opt for the La Femme Off-the-Shoulder Beaded Satin Trumpet Gown or the Tadashi Shoji Odette Sequin Dress. Love a floral frock? Then go for the Teri Jon by Rickie Freeman Floral Jacquard Gown or the Tadashi Shoji Floral Cap Sleeve Chiffon Dress.
Read on for the best mother of the groom dresses.
Nordstrom
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, but we can ensure you that it does! This style from La Femme cinches you at the waist and falls effortlessly into a gorgeous, flowy hemline.
Adrianna Papell
In a shimmering and icy blue hue and dripping in crystal embroidery, this Adrianna Papell beaded gown was made for a winter wedding. Pair it with silver strappy sandals and chandelier earrings to complete your formal look.
BHLDN
What could be more sophisticated than an elongating, floor-length dress with an elegant neckline? Wear yours with a sleek updo to really show off those shoulders.
BHLDN
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.
Bloomingdale's
For the mother of the groom who loves a little vintage flair, this Adrianna Papell gown is for you. Designed with a supremely flattering blouson bodice and body-skimming skirt, this gown fits like a dream.
BHLDN
A semi-formal wedding calls for a sophisticated but less dressy look than a black-tie wedding, and this lace number more than fits the bill. Since gold is practically a neutral color, this knee-length dress can be worn to a New Year's Eve wedding, a summer wedding, and everything in between.
David's Bridal
We love a good three-piece set as it feels like two outfits in one. This chic and formal set from David's Bridal consists of a sheer jacket with medium coverage that's perfect for cooler weather and a sleeveless sequin top that is more than ready for the dance floor.
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 a flattering fit.
Show off your shoulders with a gown featuring a halter-neck silhouette. This luxurious satin style from BHLDN exudes Old Hollywood glamour and is available in six colors to complement any wedding palette.
Amsale
If you combine flutter sleeves with expertly placed draping, you have yourself a very stylish and flattering dress. This stunning fluid gown also features a beautifully beaded neckline and an elongating front slit.
Moda Operandi
Typically, a bride's wedding dress is designed to only be worn once but that shouldn't be the case when it comes to your mother of the groom dress. This is a big day for you too, so why not invest in a piece that you really love and see yourself wearing again? This beautiful Marchesa dress is definitely worth splurging on, and it's sure to make you stand out on the wedding day.
Tadashi Shoji
Spring and summer weddings call for shorter hemlines and bare arms. This floral frock is a stunning option for warmer weather and destination weddings, and it can easily be worn with casual sandals or dressy heels.
Khaite
This utterly sophisticated off-the-shoulder number was designed with only the chicest mother of the groom in mind. Wear yours with pin-thin strappy sandals for an effortlessly elegant look.
BHLDN
Warm and comfortable, a velvet dress is perfect for a winter or holiday wedding. Accentuate this glamorous look with shoulder-grazing statement earrings and metallic accessories.
Saks Fifth Avenue
About as chic and refined as they come, this Teri Jon by Rickie Freeman gown is crafted from shimmering brocade and would be right at home at an elegant black-tie wedding.
Net-a-Porter
Glide down the aisle in this truly regal gown from Marchesa Notte. Crafted in a beautiful lilac hue. Boasting a cape-like effect, this statement-making gown is ideal for a spring or summer black-tie wedding.
What to Look For in a Mother of the Groom Outfit
When it comes to shopping for mother of the groom dresses, identifying the best silhouette for your body type is always a good place to start. This will help narrow down your options and make the shopping process a whole lot easier. Beyond choosing a flattering silhouette, 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, go for a short frock or sundress. Keep in mind that many sites offer the ability to filter dresses by occasion, color, and silhouette.
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 any 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 err on the safe side, we suggest that you start shopping for your dress six months before the wedding to allow for any shipping delays or alterations.
What should I consider when shopping for my mother of the groom outfit?
It’s important to take into consideration the venue, the season, and your personal style. While your outfit should be season-appropriate and complement the wedding’s color palette, it’s also important to pick silhouettes and colors that celebrate your body type and spotlight your personal style.
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 outfit or groom’s suit/tuxedo.
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 with the couple beforehand 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.