It's no secret that moms come in all shapes and sizes, yet it often seems like mother-of-the-bride (and groom) dresses are designed with a one-size-fits-all approach. Most options seem as if they were created to fit a shapeless body type, or they're so demure that they almost look matronly. To ensure the most important women in your life look and feel gorgeous on the big day, we rounded up some of our favorite mother-of-the-bride dresses that are both flattering and stylish.
The important thing to remember when choosing a mom-appropriate dress is to be playful with elements like color, silhouette, or pattern, rather than something like length. Necklines are another great fashion detail that moms can have some fun with. But just as you would for any other occasion, you'll want to avoid anything too showy—off-the-shoulder sleeves and deep V-necks are sexy and elegant, so long as they're not too revealing.
No matter what style direction you're leaning towards, there are plenty of mother-of-the-bride dress options out there that are far from matronly—here is a selection we love right now.
The mock neck and spaghetti tie belt add just the right amount of flare to this pleated midi dress. Mothers of the bride will love this frock, which also has a chic flare hem and slip lining.
Lulus Floral "Dressed Up" Black Floral Print Midi Dress
For the mother of the bride who adores floral prints, this dress is for you. The free-flowing garment has a cream and black print with sheer decolletage, short sleeves, and a darted bodice for the perfect spring wedding attire.
Looking for a simplistic option that still has "wow" factor? Consider this sleek strapless dress that has both "liquid shine" and a form-fitting silhouette.
We love the sequin embellishments all over this long-sleeve midi dress, which also features a V-neckline and tulip hem. Can't you see yourself in this while sipping Champagne at a New Year's Eve wedding?
Rickie Freeman for Teri Jon Two-Tone ¾-Sleeve Taffeta Shirtdress Gown
We looked up timeless in the dictionary and this black and white dress was there. Sumptuous taffeta, a tailored shirtdress top, and a darling bow detail. It's perfection.
Sparkling simplicity can be so glamorous. This sheath gown is covered head to toe in sequins, with elegant three-quarter sleeves and a gentle scoop in the back.
Rickie Freeman for Teri Jon Taffeta Laser Cut Shirtdress
We're getting Oscars visions from this minimalist column dress. It's beautifully draped in a fluid silky fabric with an asymmetric off-the-shoulder neckline.
As the grown up version of a slip dress, this moody floral is the most gorgeous take on a classic navy and light blue color palette. The lace gown has a curve-hugging silhouette and a grosgrain sash along the waist.
This demure, sheath silhouette, covered in delicate crystal, sequins, and beading, is a lovely choice for a daytime ceremony and evening reception (truly, day to night!). The flutter sleeves add an exceptionally whimsical touch to the dress.
Mac Duggal Long-Sleeve Embellished Floral Midi-Dress
This floral piece punctuated with dainty beadwork, is equal parts garden party and glamor. Throw on this pretty, flowy dress for an evening on the dance floor.
Rickie Freeman for Teri Jon Metallic Jacquard Off-The-Shoulder Dress
A sophisticated off-the-shoulder neckline in a gorgeous shade is the ultimate look for a classic mother of the bride. The twist-accented front adds the finishing touch on this gown.
This sleeveless, one-shoulder silhouette is sure to make a statement. The stunning asymmetric neckline gets a ruffle overlay on the right shoulder to complete the look.
What we recommend you wearing for a daytime wedding, is a swing or tea dress. As we mentioned earlier, this style of dress is one sure to stand the test of time, while ensuring you look quite the opposite of matronly.
Try purples, greys, and neutrals such as eggplant, graphite, black, or navy. Mum can feel comfortable indulging in this rich and regal palette. The beautiful thing about a purple bridal party: A variety of shades look good together. Consider what you'll be most comfortable wearing for a full day of celebrating!
So, don't choose gowns or dresses that would overpower the bridal gown. Also, try to avoid loud patterns that will overwhelm in photos and make you stand out from the rest of the wedding party.
Ruching and draping are design techniques that can create a slimming effect. Look for wedding dresses for the mother of the bride with strategic ruching or draping around the midsection or waistline. These details can help camouflage any problem areas while accentuating your curves flatteringly.
"We've seen mothers of the bride and groom moving away from the traditional two-piece outfits, in favour of a more contemporary look that can be worn again. An elegant well-cut dress with sleeves and minimal detail is the most requested look, with a great shoe and bag.
The MOTB can wear any color she wants, but it's better to avoid certain colors such as white, ivory, or champagne tones as they're considered bridal colors and may take attention away from the bride.
Because the mother of the groom isn't part of the bridal party, she should avoid choosing a dress in the same color as the bridesmaids' attire, the mother of the bride's dress, or the wedding gown.
But if no one has asked the mother of the groom to match the bridal party, it's best to choose a different color, but not one that clashes." Wearing variations of the same color that coordinate with the rest of the wedding party is a great way to complement the color scheme without being too matchy-matchy.
The length of the gown or dress is a personal choice, even for formal weddings. Long dresses and skirts are fine for any wedding from noon on. The mothers do not have to wear dresses of equal length, although many do, feeling that it creates a more harmonious look, especially in wedding photos.
Unless the bride has made specific demands of her guests/bridal party, you are free to wear your hair in any style that makes you feel beautiful. The only thing you need to avoid is any outfit/hairstyle/makeup that could possibly outshine the bride. Keep it tasteful and simple, and you'll be just fine.
A: The Mother of the Bride needs to coordinate with the Mother of the Groom and decide whether they will be wearing long or short dresses, but both are acceptable.
As the mother of the bride, you might be asked to hold many of the brides' trinkets and larger things like shoes. For that, we recommend a medium sized handbag such as the BRYANT MED or ADDIE MED.
Typically the Mother of the Bride's dress should complement the bridal party's color palette. Not necessarily match with the bridesmaids, but choose a color in the color family. The most popular color for the mother of the bride to wear is navy or a royal blue, followed by blush or a shade of nude.
A-Line Dresses: A-line dresses are a classic choice for mothers of the bride. This silhouette gently skims over the waist and hips, creating an elongated and slimming effect. Choose a dress with vertical details, such as pleats or vertical lace panels, to further enhance the illusion of length.
Typically the Mother of the Bride's dress should complement the bridal party's color palette. Not necessarily match with the bridesmaids, but choose a color in the color family. The most popular color for the mother of the bride to wear is navy or a royal blue, followed by blush or a shade of nude.
If something is too tight or too loose it's never a good look, but especially after the baby the fit really matters. Make sure you've got a great mirror so you can check things from 360 degrees, whether it's too look for back fat, bra overhang, or more.
These days, virtually anything goes—formal gown, short or long dress, skirt-and-jacket ensemble—so long as it matches the style of the wedding. Brides can be very helpful by encouraging "the moms" to work together in choosing their outfits.
Introduction: My name is Lakeisha Bayer VM, I am a brainy, kind, enchanting, healthy, lovely, clean, witty person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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