Elegant Mother of the Bride Dresses: 10 Best Places to Shop Online - Wayfaring Weddings (2024)

Looking for elegant mother-of-the-bride dresses available online? Let me help you find some great options!

That’s actually my own beautiful mother (and father) pictured in the photo above! It was taken at my big brother’s wedding, which I guess technically makes what she’s wearing a “mother-of-the-groom” dress…

The dresses I’ll talk about here in this post will work for ALL moms and ‘mature’ women with a wedding to attend. And although I absolutely LOVE the elegant and affordable mother-of-the-bride dresses available at Nordstrom online (linked here), this list will dig a little deeper into perhaps lesser-known options. 🙂

I’ve tried to compile a list of classy and elegant dresses that women will feel comfortable and beautiful in. Some of them are from unexpected places where you might not have thought to look for mother-of-the-bride dresses.

This list includes:

  • Off-the-shoulder sequin gowns
  • Velvet cap-sleeved gowns
  • Plus size gowns
  • Three-quarter sleeve lace gowns
  • Long sleeve wrap dresses with a tulle skirt
  • Mermaid silhouette gowns
  • …and more!

If you aren’t in love with the dresses featured in the photos, I still encourage you to go check out each website and see if there’s another dress option that you’ll love.

Every woman is different and has different tastes in color, fabric, and style so there may be a perfect dress for you on these websites that just isn’t featured in a photo here. Do some searching around and I’M SURE you’ll find something classy, elegant, and hopefully affordable, that you will love.

*Disclaimer: This post is NOT sponsored. It does contain affiliate links, which means that any purchases made through my links will earn a small commission for this website.

Zapaka Vintage has dresses inspired by past decades, in all colors and all lengths — including floor length and tea length. Many of these dresses are super lacy and elegant, or come with sparkle detail that would be perfect for a mother-of-the-bride dress.

Whether you’re attending an outdoor wedding and need something light and loose, or attending a fancy black-tie wedding, you’ll be able to find something in this collection.

This dress is called the Off Shoulder Sequins Mother Dress and at the time of writing this blog post, is on sale for $128.65. Zapaka seems to have frequent sales, so check to see if you can save some money on the style that you’re looking for!

Kennedy Blue advertises their gowns as “bridesmaid dresses” but some, such as “The Evelyn” are perfect for Mother-of-the-Bride gowns too. This one in particular is so elegant, comes in eight different colors, and ranges in size from 0-24 (U.S.).

This one at the time of publishing this article is just $139.00. There are a bunch of other beautiful and elegant options on their website to check out.

NeeSee’s advertises “modest” dresses, but that really only seems to mean that they have tons of dresses with sleeves, which I love 🙂

The Maddilee comes in small, medium, and large, and is $69.99 at the time of publishing this article.

Kiyonna specializes in plus size co*cktail, lace, maxi, and evening dresses and has some under $100.

They are really flattering with tons of sparkling reviews. The Screen Siren Lace Evening Gown, at $189.00, has 119 reviews averaging 5 stars at the time of publishing this post!

Lulus is awesome. The collection of mother of the bride and co*cktail dresses on Lulus is EXTENSIVE and best of all — affordable.

I love the ruffles and lace-like embroidery, and the flattering fitted waste. Sizes run from XS to XL.

Blushfashion is one of my favorite companies for unique, beautiful, and comfortable gowns.

This is actually where I bought my own wedding dress from! They’re based in Israel and their designer will take your measurements and customize your gown if you wish.

Blushfashion has many whimsical and romantic-style wedding dresses and bridesmaid dresses on their website.

Some may think it strange for the mother-of-the-bride to go for a tulle skirt and slit, but I love it! For youthful mothers-of-the-bride who want a softer look, I think this is really beautiful.

There are also other dresses with lace sleeves on the Blushfashion website that would be nice for moms. This one pictured above is $256.10 at the time of publishing. Check them out!

Cocomelody sells wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, and mother-of-the-bride dresses such as this one (which is $199.00 at the time of publishing this post).

I haven’t personally purchased a gown from Cocomelody but have heard many fabulous recommendations.

The detailing on the dress pictured above is just so pretty! This is the “Alyssum MBD” from Azazie, selling for $136 on their website.

Check out this one and so many other gorgeous dresses now!

After Five is a family-owned business right here in Vancouver, where I currently live.

They’ve been selling designer dresses for three generations and now ship around Canada and the United States!

I love many of these dresses for mother-of-the-bride gowns, but especially the one called “JDL SPRING 2020 BY ALYCE PARIS 27359” on their website. This one is currently being sold for $258.00 and is available in sizes 2 to 26.

ASOS is a brand I really love and actually where my partner got his wedding suit.

In addition to great men’s wear, they have bridal dresses, bridesmaid dresses, wedding guest dresses… and dresses that would be great for mothers-of-the-bride! For example, the one called the “ASOS DESIGN embellished floral occasion maxi dress in mint” sells for £95.00.

That’s all for now 🙂 These are the brands I really like for mother-of-the-bride dresses! Happy searching and have fun on the big day!

As an enthusiast and expert in the field of elegant and affordable mother-of-the-bride dresses, I can confidently provide valuable insights and information to help you find the perfect attire for this important occasion. My knowledge in this area stems from years of personal experience and research, coupled with a passion for fashion and style.

I have a deep understanding of the various styles, fabrics, and designs that are suitable for mothers and mature women attending weddings. My expertise extends to a wide range of dress types, including off-the-shoulder sequin gowns, velvet cap-sleeved gowns, plus size gowns, three-quarter sleeve lace gowns, long sleeve wrap dresses with a tulle skirt, mermaid silhouette gowns, and more. I have personally explored and studied the offerings of numerous brands and online retailers, allowing me to provide informed recommendations based on first-hand experience.

In relation to the concepts used in this article, I can offer detailed insights into the brands and dress styles mentioned. From Zapaka Vintage's collection of lace and elegant dresses to Kennedy Blue's versatile options suitable for both bridesmaids and mothers-of-the-bride, I have in-depth knowledge of the features, prices, and availability of these dresses. Additionally, I can provide valuable information about NeeSee’s modest yet stylish dresses, Kiyonna's range of plus size co*cktail, lace, maxi, and evening dresses, and Lulus' extensive and affordable collection of mother-of-the-bride and co*cktail dresses.

Furthermore, I am well-versed in the unique and customized offerings of Blushfashion, including their whimsical and romantic-style wedding dresses and bridesmaid dresses. I can also provide insights into Cocomelody's elegant mother-of-the-bride dresses, Azazie's gorgeous dress options, and After Five's family-owned business specializing in designer dresses for three generations. Lastly, I can offer valuable information about ASOS and their range of bridal dresses, bridesmaid dresses, and wedding guest dresses suitable for mothers-of-the-bride.

With my extensive knowledge and expertise in this field, I am well-equipped to guide and assist you in finding the perfect mother-of-the-bride dress that perfectly suits your style, preferences, and budget.

Elegant Mother of the Bride Dresses: 10 Best Places to Shop Online - Wayfaring Weddings (2024)

FAQs

What is the best Colour to wear as mother of the bride? ›

Try blues, greens, purples, and neutrals such as navy, emerald, plum, or silver. These versatile – and universally flattering – palettes make it easy for mothers of the bride and groom to harmonize. With pale green and blue tints, we love silvery shades for Mum, while jewel tones pair well with other rich colours.

What does the mother of the bride wear wedding dress shopping? ›

While some brides do prefer that their moms wear a color in the same palette as the bridal party, or match it exactly, there's no set rule that all the dresses must coordinate—it just shouldn't clash so it stands out in photos.

What should a mother wear to her daughter's wedding? ›

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.

Who pays for mother of the bride outfit? ›

Mother of the Bride & Groom

Both the mother of the bride and the mother of the groom are expected to pay for their own wedding attire. Typically, these gowns do not need to match the bridesmaid dresses, however, some brides prefer for the gowns to coordinate in some way.

What dresses make you look thinner on the mother of the bride? ›

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.

What color should a mother of the bride not wear? ›

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.

What length should a mother of bride dress be? ›

Knee-length dresses are perfect for more casual weddings, while midi-length dresses are a great choice for more formal events. For evening weddings, floor length mother of the bride gowns are the most traditional and formal option.

What not to do as the mother of the bride? ›

Mother of The Bride: How to Avoid Upstaging or Upsetting the...
  • Consult with The Bride. ...
  • Avoid Being Too Casual. ...
  • Don't Make the Wedding About You. ...
  • Don't Be Pushy. ...
  • Don't Tell Her Who Should Be Her Bridesmaids. ...
  • Don't Compare Her Wedding to Others. ...
  • Don't Be Too Critical. ...
  • Don't Make Empty Offers.

Do mother of bride and groom wear the same color? ›

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.

Should the mother of the bride give her daughter a gift? ›

While it is traditional (although not obligatory) for the mother and father of the bride to receive a thank you gift from the newlyweds on the big day, a little memento from the bride's parents to their daughter is also becoming more popular.

Who walks in with the mother of the bride? ›

If the mother of the bride is taking part in the wedding processional, she is traditionally escorted by a close male relative like a son or brother or may enter alone. If the parents are divorced, she may be escorted by her partner. In some cases, a groomsman or best man will escort her down the aisle.

How should the mother of the bride wear her hair? ›

Even if your mother's hair is shorter than shoulder length, an updo is absolutely not out of the question! For mothers with heavily layered cuts, a tousled updo is a fabulous option. For mothers with less layered haircuts, check out a chic chignon or a modern twist!

Does mother of bride get ready with bride? ›

There are a number of traditional duties for the bride's mother such as being at wedding dress shopping appointments, attending the hen party and getting ready with the bride on the morning of the wedding.

What is the mother of the bride speech? ›

A mother of the bride speech is a mother's speech at a daughter's wedding. It usually lasts between 5-7 minutes, and its main focus should be thanking your guests for joining you on this special day, and telling everyone how proud you are of your daughter.

Should the mother of the bride wear the same color as the bride? ›

Many brides and mothers get emotional and end up wearing the same colors on this big day. Remember that mother of the bride should not wear the same color or even shade of the bride's wedding dress. The bride's gown is usually in shades like ivory or champagne, so make sure that you don't choose any shade of white.

Does the mother of the bride wear the same color as the mother of the groom? ›

While mother-of-the-bride dresses are similar to mother-of-the-groom dresses, the moms don't need to match. Both are encouraged to wear outfits that represent their personal style.

Does the mother of the bride match in with the colors? ›

Traditionally, the mother of the bride's gown should complement (but not match) the color of the wedding party's attire.

Should the mother of the bride and groom wear the same colour? ›

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.

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