As the mother of the bride or groom, you play a pretty special role in your child’s wedding—and you deserve to look and feel as special as you are! There are plenty of fashion labels that offer wedding guest dresses There are many styles, fabrics, and necklines that can be worn to reflect this role. The best of the very best.
The elegant dresses you’ll find below really rise to occasion—because even though you may have attended dozens of weddings in your lifetime, you’re not just a regular guest here. You’re the guest of honor on your child’s special day. No matter if the celebration is black-tie or casual, you’re a true guest of honor. Lake Como Or a casual ceremony on the beach? California’s Pacific CoastWe have 25 gorgeous dresses to help you find your perfect dress (just as your child did!).
Continue scrolling to see all our favorite dresses for the mother of the bride, or click here to jump straight to that page. type of wedding Attending the event is a great way to discover your perfect match.
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Black-tie weddings
The invitation will say “black tie” to indicate “fancy”. This attire, unlike any other designation, is where you come to sparkle—both literally and figuratively. It’s important to wear floor-length gowns, with a touch of sparkle from sequins or crystals. You can still look elegant if you don’t like shine. Choose fabrics with a lot of elegance such as satin or jacquard. While solid colors have historically been the norm, prints are also welcome—just use your discretion, of course. Black-tie events are often held in the evening. Wearing dresses that cover the arms and shoulders can help you to feel more comfortable.
Formal/black-tie optional
Formal attire is still appropriate for a wedding, but it’s less formal than a black tie affair. This means that fabrics can be less lavish and embellished. You can also wear more vibrant colors and show off your neckline. The goal is elegance, but there’s a lot of flexibility. Balance is also important for formal wear. You can choose to pair lace with a surprising color like metallic if it’s a high-end fabric.
Semi-formal weddings
This category is the Goldilocks wedding dress: not too formal nor too casual. It’s just right. Think of it as dressy casual. Mothers of the bride or groom will feel comfortable wearing a tea-length gown, a jumpsuit, or any other lavish fabric. Feel free to choose looks with relaxed silhouettes rather than form-fitting styles.
Cocktail attire
As confusing as this may appear, the formula is simple: Combine a slightly reduced version of formal clothing with the ability to add flair and you have cocktail attire. Dresses that are knee-length or shorter work best. You can also add lace or glittering beads to make them more luxurious. Cocktail attire allows mothers to wear brighter colors and avoid the darker shades that are typical of formal or black-tie events.
Casual Wear
Think easy fabrics and comfortable silhouettes Even if the celebration is held in a rustic-chic farmhouse or a cozy backyard, it still has a formality. Casual attire is simply a dressed-up version your regular look. As a guest of honor, this is a space where you can add a tinge of embellishment—like rosette detailing—to your typical elevated attire and still find yourself well within the appropriate dress code.
Beach weddings
You can also find out more about the A-Team here. beachside wedding Sends a clear message to your guests: Use color. No matter the time of day or setting—either at a dreamy Caribbean resort Or, a casual gathering on the sand in Florida—beach-inspired hues reign supreme. Choose colors and patterns that compliment the surrounding natural environment, whether it’s the calm ocean waters or sunset rays. There are many dresses that fit the bill. They come in loose-fitting styles and lightweight fabrics.
