18 Best Mother-of-the-Groom Dresses of 2023

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 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.

Off the Shoulder Beaded Satin Trumpet Gown

Nordstrom


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

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 assure you that it does! This style from La Femme cinches you at the waist and falls effortlessly into a gorgeous, flowy hemline.

Price at time of publish: $599

BHLDN Ruby Satin Charmeuse Dress

Anthropologie


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

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.

Price at time of publish: $248

Tadashi Shoji Odette Sequin Dress

Anthropologie


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): Silver, gold

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.

Price at time of publish: $430

Alex Evenings Scalloped Sequin Lace and Satin Jacket Dress

David’s Bridal


ISize Range: 6-18 | Material(s): Polyester, nylon, spandex | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Eggplant and midnight

If you’re look for a conservative fit that still gives you the option to flaunt your arms, opt for a dress with a jacket. You can even use the jacket if the wedding is set on a chilly night, or for an overall elegant look.

Price at time of publish: $229

Ralph Lauren Floral Ruffled Trim Georgette Gown

Ralph Lauren


Size Range: 00-24, petite | Material(s): Polyester | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Pink Floral

Spring and summer weddings call for lighter fabrics 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. The tie belt defines your waist while the cascading ruffles add some movement that begs to be taken to the dance floor. We love how it comes in both regular, petite, and plus sizing.

Price at time of publish: $295

AW Romula Dress

AW Bridal


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

For less than $100, you can get a custom-made dress from AW Bridal. Just enter your measurements online and the dress will be made to size, at no extra cost. This pared-back, satin style is extremely elegant and a great option for those who rather skip beading and other embellishments. Instead, the jewel neckline beautifully shows off your accessories. Choose from 25 different shades to find the best one to compliment your skin tone and style.

Price at time of publish: $90

Adrianna Papell Hand Beaded Floral Godet Gown

Adrianna Papell


Size Range: 0-20 (regular and plus size available) | Material(s): Polyester | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Taupe/pink, blue, black, twilight

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.

Price at time of publish: $300

Amsale Pryce Off-the-Shoulder Column Dress

Amsale


Size Range: 0-16 | Material(s): 100% polyester | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): 9

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.

Price at time of publish: $495

Adrianna Papell Beaded Blouson Gown

Bloomingdale


Size Range: 0-20 (regular and plus-size available) | Material(s): 100% polyester | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): 9

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.

Price at time of publish: $209

Oleg Cassini Sequin Lace and Jersey Three-Piece Pantsuit

David’s Bridal


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

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.

Price at time of publish: $130

Amsale Flutter Sleeve Satin Gown

Amsale


Size Range: 00-28 | Material(s): Satin | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Black, petrol, navy

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.

Price at time of publish: $1,295

Jenny Yoo Issa Velvet Dress

Anthropologie


Size Range: 0-19 (regular and plus-size available) | Material(s): Velvet polyester, spandex; polyester lining | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Sage, red, dark green, blue, pink

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.

Price at time of publish: $295

Kiyonna Paris Pleated Sequin Gown

Kiyonna


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

This polished number from Kiyonna (which is solely a plus-size brand) is one for the books, and will certainly turn heads at an evening and/or winter wedding. Pair with sequin heels to match the sparkly bodice and simple silver jewelry to complete the piece.

Price at time of publish: $338

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

David’s Bridal


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

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.

Price at time of publish: $150

Pissaro Nights Beaded V-neck Cocktail Dress

Nordstrom


Size Range: 2-18 | Material(s): Rayon | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Silver, navy, red

A semi-formal wedding calls for a sophisticated but less dressy look than a black-tie wedding, and this beaded number more than fits the bill. Coming in three shades, this knee-length dress can be worn to a New Year’s Eve wedding, a summer wedding, and everything in between.

Price at time of publish: $198

Teri Jon by Rickie Freeman Floral Jacquard Gown

Saks Fifth


Size Range: 2-22 | Material(s): 73% polyester, 27% metallic; 100% polyester lining | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): 6

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.

Price at time of publish: $860

Talbot Runhof Asymmetric Cape-Effect Stretch-Lamé Gown

Net-A-Porter


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

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

Price at time of publish: $2,450

Oleg Cassini Tea Length Lace and Chiffon Mock Two-Piece

David’s Bridal


Size Range: 2-24 | Material(s): Polyester | Fit: True to size | Shade(s): Lavender, blue, petal

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

Price at time of publish: $180

What to Look For in a Mother of the Groom Outfit

Season

The season and location of the venue will greatly impact what kind of outfit to wear. For fall or winter weddings, you can stick to deep jewel tones and rich fabrics like velvet and satin. Jenny Yoo Velvet Gown comes in tonal shades and a cozy fabric for an autumn affair. For summer or a wedding taking place in a tropical destination, we recommend lighter fabrics and whimsical designs with ruffles and short sleeves. Ralph Lauren Floral Gown is fitting for a summer or destination wedding alike. And for anything in between, you might want to go with a style with a jacket, like Alex Evenings Two-Piece, in case you get chilly.

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. With its glamorous satin fabric and floor length skirt, La Femme Trumpet Gown is ideal for a black-tie wedding. If the wedding is more casual, you can go with a shorter dress like Pisarro Nights Beaded Cocktail 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 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

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.