46 of the Best Mother of the Bride Dresses & Outfits
From flattering floral designs and lace gowns, to maxi dresses and embroidery details, these gorgeous mother of the bride dresses are the furthest thing from frumpy
We have included third party products to help you navigate and enjoy life’s biggest moments. Purchases made through links on this page may earn us a commission.
When it comes to mother of the bride dresses and outfits, there are no hard and fast rules anymore. The only thing you need to have in mind is finding an outfit that makes you feel good. After all, this wedding is a special day for you, too!
For far too long, stereotypical mother of the bride dresses and outfits were - let's be honest - rather frumpy, and were designed to conceal rather than to flatter. Anyone looking for mother of the bride dresses that are not frumpy have come to the right place. These figure-flattering mother of the bride dresses are both trendy and age-appropriate.
Being an older wedding guest doesn't mean you have to wear a frumpy mother of the bride dresses and our edit proves just that. From tea-length and long elegant mother of the bride dresses to floral designs and plus size mother of the bride dresses, we've found the dresses for the mother of the bride that are far from frumpy and are sure to have you feeling your most confident self on the big day.
47 Elegant Mother of the Bride Dresses That Are Not Frumpy
Our edit features beautiful mother of the bride dresses and outfits to suit an array of body shapes, styles and budgets. These looks reference current trends, for a fresh effect, but at the same time they're utterly timeless and very wearable. And let's be honest - they're perfect for the mother of the groom too, right?
- Trendy & Modern Mother of the Bride Dresses
- Classy & Unusual Mother of the Bride Dresses
- Spring & Summer Mother of the Bride Dresses
- Autumn & Winter Mother of the Bride Dresses
- Mother of the Bride Dresses With Jackets
- Mother of the Bride Trouser Suits & Jumpsuits
- Stylish Petite Mother of the Bride Dresses
- Flattering Plus Size Mother of the Bride Dresses
Trendy & Modern Mother of the Bride Dresses
You may be parent to a nearlywed, but that doesn't mean you can't shop for young mother of the bride dresses.
Trendy modern mother of the bride dresses come in a range of styles and embrace a number of new trends, so take a look at a few of our top picks and see if there's something here for you.
1. Embroidered Blue Mother of the Bride Dress - £359, Karen Millen
We're starting off our edit with the most trendy mother of the bride dresses, and this Karen Millen number felt like the perfect gown to kick things off.
The silhouette is so unique and features oversized sleeves, embroidered cuffs on the neck and wrists, a dropped waist and lots of embroidery. The pattern that covers the dress looks almost like love hearts, making it more than fitting for a wedding celebration.
This navy mother of the bride dress is oh-so chic, but it does come in ivory as well if you love it enough to buy two versions. We certainly would! Hitched Editor Zoe Burke has this dress and loves it: "I'm not an overly dressy person, so I love occasion wear that can be dressed up or down if needed. I love that this can be styled with chic stiletto heels or boots. The shape and cut of the waist is really flattering too."
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 16
Pros & Cons: This is such a trendy mother of the bride dress because of the drop waist and puffed sleeves, and will suit someone with a more boho sense of style.
2. Pastel Blue Mother of the Bride Dress with Ruffles - £47.50, Simply Be
Run don't walk to grab yourself an absolute bargain as this Simply Be ruffle dress has been reduced to half the price (previously £90), making it a total steal.
The pastel blue colour is so light, it almost looks grey, which we love. For those seeking modern mother of the bride dresses, we'd recommend considering trendy styles like this one which still feel age appropriate and wedding-worthy.
We also love a Simply Be dress because of how inclusive their sizes are. Many of their dresses range from sizes 10 to 32, making them ideal for plus size mother of the bride dresses as well as for people needing smaller sizes.
Sizing: UK 10 - UK 30
Pros & Cons: If you've been looking for silver or lilac mother of the bride dresses and haven't had any luck, we'd recommend trying this style out as the hue is so light it could almost pass for either of those.
3. Purple & Gold mother of the Bride Maxi Dress - £50, Simply Be
Another total steal from Simply Be is this Joanna Hope maxi dress which has been reduced from £100 down to just £50.
The colour is rich and striking and it's ideal for anyone who can't decide between a gold or purple mother of the bride dresses because here, you get both.
The dropped hem is very on-trend right now and gives you plenty of movement to the dress without losing all shape.
Sizing: UK 10 - UK 26
Pros & Cons: This dress looks much more expensive than it actually is and although ruffles aren't for everyone, this design takes the ruffles often seen on the neck and shoulders of trendy dresses and has reduced the size so they're not so extreme.
4. Modern Floral Embroidered Midi Dress - £199, Hobbs
Floral midi gowns may not strike you as the most trendy mother of the bride dresses, but this embroidered style from Hobbs really stands out from the crowd.
The illusion neckline and sleeves take what's usually a classic design and turned it into something much more modern, and the bright colours used in the embroidery make it feel fresh and exciting.
But the level of modernity you end up with when it comes to a line mother of the bride dresses like this all comes down to the styling. Opting for a bright red clutch and shoes, or hot pink accessories will give it a younger feel. On the other hand, pairing it with simple black add-ons will keep it mature and elegant. The choice is yours.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: As we said, the end result of this dress all comes down to the styling, so we'd recommend taking a look at the honour jewel clutch and matching courts for the complete look.
5. Modern Pink Mother of the Bride Dress With Pleats - £995, Reiss
Another big trend happening right now is layered, ruffled dresses and we reckon it's just the kind of fashion statement you can totally rock as a mother of the bride.
If you want to pair modern trends with blush mother of the bride dresses, this Leo Lin gown from Reiss is definitely for you.
The dusty pink shade is unassuming and chic, and really lets the pleated ruffles do the talking.
Like the model shows, all you need are nude sandals and a simple hairstyle and you're good to go with this one.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 12
Pros & Cons: This dress comes with a thin belt which cinches you in at the waist, but you could also wear it without the belt for a more free-flowing look. It'll look amazing either way.
6. Pink One Shouldered Maxi Dress - £190, Reiss
How trendy and chic is this asymmetrical cape dress from Reiss? The hot pink colour is super striking and we love how graceful it is - plus it's just been reduced by more than £100!
One shoulder dresses are really in fashion right now, but the loose fit and cape style of this one enables you to don a trendy mother of the bride dress without it feeling too young - although, you're only as old as you feel, right?
"Don't be afraid to wear a bold colour on your daughter's wedding day," advises Rima, Deputy Editor at Hitched. "The key is to keep the silhouette simple and let the colour do all the talking."
Sizing: UK 4 - UK 16
Pros & Cons: The floaty silhouette gives you plenty of room for movement and guarantees a comfortable wear all day long. As with any asymmetrical mother of the bride dress, you'll need a multi-way bra to ensure no straps are on show.
Classy & Unusual Mother of the Bride Dresses
You can totally keep things chic without having to wear the expected, which is why we've gathered a striking selection of classy unusual mother of the bride dresses for those parents who want something a bit different.
7. Priscilla Abstract Maxi Mother of the Bride Dress - £169, Phase Eight
The Priscilla dress from Phase Eight. is by far one of our favourite dresses for a mother of the bride who thinks outside of the box.
The abstract print is different to anything we've seen before and the pleated fabric only accentuates the pattern. We also love the mixture of cool and warm colours - we'd love to see this at an autumn wedding paired with gold accessories.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 26
Pros & Cons: The model here is 5'10 so shorter mothers of the bride may have to have this dress taken up, or simply pair it with killer high heels.
8. Marbled Colourful Midi Mother of the Bride Dress - £129, Karen Millen
This marbled midi dress ticks both the classy and unusual box. The silhouette is classic and elegant, while the pattern and colours are totally unique and different. It's also really cool when such flattering mother of the bride dresses incorporate a detail as unique as the shirt collar and buttons used here.
It gives it a slight daytime feel, making it ideal for a summer garden wedding, whilst still looking really smart.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 16
Pros & Cons: This dress is so versatile - it can be a midi dress for taller shoppers, or a midaxi for petite ones.
9. Hot Pink Burnout Mother of the Bride Dress - £66.50, Simply Be
Simply Be might be the go-to mother of the bride dress designer of the season with these amazing prices. This dress has been reduced from £99 to less than £70 and we say it's worth that and then some.
The shape of this gown is classy and classic, with long balloon sleeves, a pleated neckline and flattering under-bust hem, but the colour and burnout fabric is what takes it to the next level.
Don't be afraid to rock a bold colour as a mother of the bride - it can really work for you, especially if you keep the silhouette and pattern simple.
Sizing: UK 10 - UK 32
Pros & Cons: Reviews state that this dress sits between being true to size and slightly big, so if you're between sizes, we'd recommend sizing down.
10. Long Embroidered Maxi Dress - £98, Coast
Those looking for long mother of the bride dresses that have plenty of detail will love this Coast maxi dress. The embroidery is just exquisite and the fitted bodice means it won't look or feel frumpy, plus it's been reduced from £219 so it's a steal.
The light colour may be close to the line for some, but we think the amount of colourful detail makes it feel very far removed from many wedding looks. Blush mother of the bride dresses like this are perfect for spring and summer occasions, but there's a similar baby blue version if you prefer cooler tones.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 18
Pros & Cons: The design and detail on this mother of the bride dress is so unique, you will be showered with compliments. Because of the stunning embroidery, this dress is hand wash only - a caveat that's totally worth it in our opinion.
11. Piper Ombre Maxi Mother of the Bride Dress - £150, John Lewis
This dress from John Lewis is a real showstopper. It's the sort of gown you'd expect to see on the red carpet, worn by a sophisticated celebrity - so it's certainly perfect for playing a starring role as mother of the bride.
If you're keen to try a blue mother of the bride dress but don't want the colour to be too striking, an ombre effect like this is a great compromise. The ombre finish to this stunning long mother of the bride dress is so trendy and unique - you won't have to worry about anyone showing up in a similar style.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 26
Pros & Cons: John Lewis can deliver this gown in five working days but do offer a click and collect service for those who need the design quicker. Reviews state this dress is quite long so you may need to adjust it or wear super high heels.
12. Floriana Shimmer Gold Mother of the Bride Dress - £99, Phase Eight
With its sleek design and puff sleeves, this Phase Eight dress is an absolute find. The vibrant pattern showcased on an almost sculptural silhouette exudes refined sophistication that will look spectacular in wedding photos and on the dance floor.
One reviewer gave it five stars and said this is a, "Very well made dress which fits true to size and is comfortable to wear."
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 26
Pros & Cons: This dress is available in plus sizes and although zip fastenings usually don't leave much room for adjusting, the wrap silhouette is completely adjustable.
Spring & Summer Mother of the Bride Dresses
When it comes to choosing mother of the bride summer dresses and gowns for spring, you want to ensure that the outfit feels suited to the season, theme and temperature - whatever that may be. Here are our favourite spring and summer mother of the bride dresses for the (sometimes) sunnier seasons.
13. Hyacinth Ruched Mother of the Bride Dress - £139, Phase Eight
Perfect for a spring wedding, the Hyacinth floral dress from Phase Eight is simply stunning.
The floral pattern gives it that spring feeling, but the longer sleeves and verdant colours ensure you'll still be warm whilst looking stylish at the same time.
One of the more trendy floral mother of the bride dresses in this edit, there are a number of unique design features that caught our eye including the V-shaped ruching at the front, the balloon chiffon sleeves and the open tie back.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: This dress has a beautifully flowy hem, and reviewers state it's a lovely dress made from great material, but some comment that it comes up a little long. If you are shorter, this may feel like more of a maxi, which will still look amazing, and taller customers can embrace more of a midi length.
14. Light Green Mother of the Bride Dress in Geometric Print - £169, Hobbs
Nothing says spring like a light green shade reflecting the new flower buds that emerge at this time of year, which is why we love this Hobbs dress so much for this time of year. But it's the geometric pattern that really caught our attention - what a way to make a line mother of the bride dresses feel really high fashion.
The floaty, pleated skirt will give amazing movement if you want to twirl around with your newly-married daughter, and the pleated neckline is really sweet, too.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 22
Pros & Cons: This dress can be styled with a silver, gold or black belt to smarten it up even further, but we also love it styled without, for a more freeing look.
15. Structured Orange Crepe Mother of the Bride Dress - £151.20, Karen Millen
This dress is absolutely giving summer wedding purely because of the stunning colour. There's nothing more delicious than a bold, bright orange dress at a summer wedding, and this Karen Millen gown really showcases that.
Bright coloured dresses can sometimes look and feel more informal, but if you're attending a smart summer wedding, this is a gown that solves that issue. Because of the structured crepe fabric and full skirt, this feels like a really smart, sophisticated and elegant mother of the bride dress that is not frumpy in any way.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 16
Pros & Cons: You can tell how much we adore the colour of this dress, but we understand it isn't for anyone. Thankfully, anyone looking for dark red, nude or forest green mother of the bride dresses can shop the other colourways.
16. English Rose Ruffle Mother of the Bride Dress - From £305, Needle & Thread
If versatility and choice is important for you as you search for mother of the bride dresses, you will be so impressed with the many options that come with the English Rose gown from Needle and Thread.
You can buy this gown as a mini, midi or maxi long mother of the bride dress, choosing the length that best suits you. We love this style for a summer wedding because of the gorgeous florals, but it can also be purchased in a darker (still floral) colourway for autumn and winter weddings.
How cool is that?
Sizing: UK 4 - UK 22
Pros & Cons: This is the perfect floral mother of the bride dress for a summer wedding, but the skirt is multi-layered so may feel a tad warm on a really hot day.
17. Tanner Printed Mother of the Bride Floral Dress - £110, Gina Bacconi
It's all too easy for a bold pattern to look a bit relentless in long mother of the bride dresses, that's why this Gina Bacconi maxi is so clever: the wrap skirt breaks up the pattern, for an overall effect that's fresh, vibrant and full of movement.
And don't let anyone fool you into thinking you can't wear darker colours to summer weddings - throw the rule book out and go with what feels right for you, and as far as we're concerned, the florals on this gown make it a superb choice for spring and summer celebrations - plus, it's been reduced from £220 down to half the price!
Sizing: UK 10 - UK 22
Pros & Cons: The wrap shape on this mother of the bride dress is super flattering and can be adjusted to add extra comfort. The bold pattern means accessorising may be tricky - we'd advise pairing this with black heels and clutch for a sophisticated look.
18. Carrie Midi Mother of the Bride Pencil Dress - £169, Phase Eight
If we had to pick a favourite mother of the bride dress from our edit, this style from Phase Eight would certainly be a contender. The pale pink hue is simply gorgeous and the lace is so romantic.
Pair this with a wedding coat if summer days turn chilly (it's the UK, it happens!) as pencil dresses look notoriously stunning with over coats and jackets on top.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: The zip fastening is concealed which we always appreciate and you get a gorgeous belt as an accessory. The scalloped lace is perfect for a beachy wedding.
Autumn & Winter Mother of the Bride Dresses
Now moving into the world of stunning autumn and winter weddings. Styling mother of the bride dresses for these seasons is so much fun - think sparkles, velvets and dark hues.
19. Red Velvet Pleated Midi Dress - £199, Hobbs
Dark reds and burgundy shades are one of our favourite colour skews for winter mother of the bride dresses, which is why we're such fans of the Rosalie dress from Hobbs.
The colour is so rich and luxurious, and that's only heightened by the choice of using velvet fabric. The diamante brooch fastened at the top of the dress means there's no need to buy any additional necklaces to pair with this dress, and it adds an additional layer of glamour to the look.
Love this dress but on the short side? Good news - this is one of those special mother of the bride dresses which is also available in petite, too!
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: The brooch means no need for a necklace, but if you did want to match your earrings to the look, the Tina studs to match are only £22 - what a bargain!
20. Annie Sequin Mother of the Bride Maxi Dress - £650, Needle & Thread
Another burgundy dress we adore is the Annie sequin gown from Needle and Thread. Again, the colour is so rich but this time, it's elevated by sequins and lace. Lace mother of the bride dresses are a stellar choice, but we like the fact that the designers here have paired one gorgeous fabric with two others - sequins and tulle.
Those looking for champagne, pink, red or black mother of the bride dresses will be delighted to know the Alice dress comes in all of those colour skews as well.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: This dress is luxurious and high end, but store it flat as the weight of the fabric could lead to it being damaged if left hanging.
21. Autumnal Metallic Mother of the Bride Maxi Dress - £55, Simply Be
You know when it's just beginning to feel like autumn, when the leaves are turning orange, the weather is cooling down and Starbucks start stocking the pumpkin spiced lattes again? Well, if that's the time of year your daughter is getting married, this is the dress you need.
A great alternative for mums who love gold mother of the bride dresses but don't want to go full metallic, this gown has just a shimmer of gold dobby details, leaving the orange and black print to shine through.
Because of the colours used here, nude, black or gold accessories and shoes would work with this outfit.
Sizing: UK 10 - UK 32
Pros & Cons: This dress used to be £130 and has been reduced by £75 so get it while stocks last.
22. Black Maxi Floral Wrap Midi Dress - £15, Wallis
Stylish and sophisticated, this floral mother of the bride dress is totally wedding worthy. The gown from Wallis is a great design if you're after a floral wedding guest that would suit a winter or more formal wedding theme and the wrap detail means it's super flattering and not frumpy at all.
Sizing: UK 8 - UK 22
Pros & Cons: Because of the black background, this mother of the bride dress is really easy to accessorise and goes perfectly with black heels and clutch bags. Not all mothers of the bride will feel comfortable in a black-base dress but we've said it once and we'll say it again, you can wear black to a wedding.
23. Adelia Mother of the Bride Pencil Dress in Plum - £59, Hobbs
Keep your mother of the bride look simple and sophisticated with this plum Hobbs dress.
The rich colour is ideal for Autumn, and a great alternative to brighter purple mother of the bride dresses, and the design can be dressed up or down depending on how formal the occasion is.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: Reviewers say this dress is super flattering and can also be bought with a matching jacket.
24. Ella Floral Print Mother of the Bride Dress – £80.10, Phase Eight
This floral dress is pure elegance, from the delicate print to the on-trend high neck with twist detailing.
That waist tie is a lovely finishing touch making this a perfect choice for those looking for a mother of the bride dress that isn't frumpy. All in all, this is a stylish designer-look piece at a high street price point.
One reviewer gave it five stars and said they, "Purchased for a wedding in October and it was a flattering fit, lovely floral pattern and looks even better than the pictures show. Stunning."
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: This pretty mother of the bride dress has an average review rating of 4/5 stars with one reviewer saying "it looked even better in person than it did in the pictures." The model wearing this dress is 5'10 so if you're a petite mother of the bride, you can expect more of a midaxi length.
Mother of the Bride Dresses With Jackets
For a smart and sophisticated look on the day, consider mother of the bride dresses with jackets that match. Here are our top picks, and remember you can mix and match the pieces afterwards, so they are a true investment.
25. Smart Mother of the Bride Dress With Jacket - £349 & £299, Hobbs
For a really elegant look, consider the Sofia pencil dress and matching jacquard coat.
This light blue mother of the bride dress and jacket combo has the most ethereal, botanical print adorning it and would really pair well with a luxury wedding theme.
Speaking to the quality of this outfit, one five star review stated that the, "Fabric and construction was excellent."
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 18
Pros & Cons: This fabric looks and feels very expensive, but jacquard is notorious for being tricky to get stains out of, so keep the red wine away from it.
26. Designer Mother of the Bride Jacket Dress, £470, Self-Portrait
Okay so technically this isn't a mother of the bride dress and jacket combo - in fact, it's much smarter than that.
This Self-Portrait piece is a pleated skirt and tweed jacket all-in-one dress. Pretty cool hey?
The blush pink shade is really elegant and a great shade to wear for a wedding, but if you prefer trendy modern mother of the bride dresses, look to the yellow version of this dress (which is £10 cheaper) for something more unique.
Sizing: UK 4 - UK 16
Pros & Cons: Designer mother of the bride dresses in the UK will cost you that bit more, but it's a statement piece for a really important occasion, so in our opinion, it's worth splashing out on.
27. Ribbon Detail Jacket Pencil Dress With Jacket - £207, Coast
Mother of the bride outfits have never looked better, right?
This structured jacket dress from Coast is classic MOTB style goals - all it needs is a stunning fascinator and some simple court shoes and you've got the look sorted. The structure means it's not frumpy at all and it's also available in navy blue if blush pink isn't your thing.
Sizing: UK 8 - UK 18
Pros & Cons: The detailing on the jacket gives it a really formal look - super smart and perfect for a chic mother of the bride look. Due to the nature of pencil skirts, you may feel slightly restricted for movement if you're not used to wearing this silhouette - try moving in it at home before the big day so you can wear it confidently.
28. Lilac Tuxedo Mother of the Bride Jacket Dress - £100, Coast
If you want the illusion of a mother of the bride dress with a jacket without having to buy two separate pieces, consider a tuxedo midi dress like this style from Coast. You get the formality of a mother of the bride jacket dress, with the comfort and silhouette of a wrap dress - it's a win, win.
Sizing: UK 8 - UK 18
Pros & Cons: The sheen on the satin lining contrasts beautifully with the main fabric on this dress, really elevating the design. Although it's our signature colour here at Hitched, we know purple shades aren't for everyone. Luckily for you, Coast offer this design in ten other colours so you have plenty of choice if lilac isn't your thing.
29. Mariposa Floral Lace Bodice Dress & Jacket – £89.10 & £112.50, Phase Eight
The Mariposa jacket looks so romantic with the matching dress, contrasting beautifully with that intricate lace bodice. The shade of pink is perfect - elegant rather than sugary.
This style has over 350 four star reviews with many stating that it is an excellent fit and well worth the money. "Excellent quality jacket and accurate sizing. Perfect for special occasions, accessories can be purchased too that coordinate," said one reviewer.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: Being able to buy these as separates means you can wear each of them again with different accessories. Some mothers of the bride may feel nervous about wearing such a pale pastel so if you're unsure, check with the bride.
30. Becky Mother of the Bride Jacket & Skirt – £149 & £79, Hobbs
Spring and even summer evenings can be chilly in the UK, so choose a style that comes with a jacket, like the Becky design from Hobbs. The mother of the bride dress with matching jacket features a collared neckline and flattering cinched in waist.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 18
Pros & Cons: Looking for a mother of the bride dress that isn't frumpy? The structure on this design will eliminate all those worries.
31. Off Shoulder Embellished Pencil Dress – £50, Coast
An effortlessly chic cocktail dress designed for stylish mothers of the bride, the details of this Coast dress are perfectly judged, from the pearl adorned collar to the sash belt. It's available in silver too and will flatter all body types.
Sizing: UK 8 - UK 16
Pros & Cons: This design is a classic mother of the bride look, however any design that veers slightly off the shoulder may leave you feeling a little exposed. However, it's nothing a little body tape can't secure.
Mother of the Bride Trouser Suits & Jumpsuits
Mother of the bride dresses aren't for everyone, and if you're looking for an outfit that's not frumpy or unflattering, look to these super cool mother of the bride suits and jumpsuits for inspiration.
32. One Shoulder Sage Green Mother of the Bride Jumpsuit - £90, River Island
Obsessed with sage green mother of the bride dresses but prefer jumpsuits? Here's the solution to all of your problems. This green drape jumpsuit is breath-taking and really gives off that elevated wedding feel.
As well as sage green, it's also available in black, lilac, champagne, blush pink and bright pink.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: This is an online exclusive so you won't be able to get this in store, but their returns process is nice and easy if it isn't for you.
33. Black Velvet Mother of the Bride Jumpsuit - £149, Phase Eight
Wearing black to a wedding is absolutely okay, especially if it's a luxe black velvet jumpsuit like the Holly design from Phase Eight.
How gorgeous is this outfit? The dark colour means it'll be super flattering and not frumpy at all, and it's also available in petite for shorter mothers of the bride.
This is a great option for people seeking black mother of the bride dresses as it's wide legged, so you get the feeling of a floaty dress whilst having the comfort of a stretchy jumpsuit. Win - win.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: The dark colour means spillages are unlikely to show up. Jazz it up with a sparkly belt for a more glam look.
34. Effie Printed Mother of the Bride Jumpsuit - £89.10, Phase Eight
If you have your eye on a jumpsuit (and we wouldn't blame you - they're pretty and practical), this beauty from Phase Eight is ideal for a summer celebration. We're picturing it being worn while sipping a delicious wedding cocktail! Oh, and don't forget to style with pink accessories.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: The model wearing this stunning mother of the bride jumpsuit is 5'9 so taller MOTBs may find this a little short. The waist tie helps to give you a gorgeous shape.
35. Bridie Frill Bodice Wide Leg Jumpsuit - £89.10, Phase Eight
Phase Eight really are nailing it with their mother of the bride jumpsuits at the moment, and the stylish Bridie is no exception. "It feels both formal and fun - the perfect wedding guest outfit," says one shopper.
It's available to buy with matching satin courts and is a great look if you prefer darker colours but don't want to look too sombre at the wedding.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: The wide leg will elongate your figure and give your mother of the bride outfit gorgeous movement and the darker colour will fare well against spillages or stains. Some may find this colour too dark for a summer or spring wedding - but in winter, it'll work perfectly.
36. Marigot Sequin Tank & Jacket Set & Trousers - £168 & £140, Gina Bacconi
As a softer alternative to a wedding coat, why not try this casual cover-up mother of the bride suit? Marigot comes with a glamorous sequin tank and a matching jacket and trousers - perfect for a summer's evening.
Sizing: S - XL
Pros & Cons: The trousers have an elasticated waist ensuring a comfortable wear that'll see you from morning to evening. This mother of the bride outfit is on the pricier side, but you get three pieces which can all be worn separately giving you plenty of bang for your buck.
Stylish Petite Mother of the Bride Dresses
"Speaking from experience, shopping for wedding-appropriate outfits as a shorter person can be tricky," says Rima, "But brands like the ones below are really nailing petite options when it comes to formal wear."
Here are our top picks when it comes to petite mother of the bride dresses in the UK.
37. Blazer-Style Midi Mother of the Bride Dress - £215.20, Karen Millen
Karen Millen do a fantastic petite range, but this off-the-shoulder blazer dress is the most unique piece we've come across. Aside from the colour - which is 10/10 - the silhouette is something we've never seen before.
They've taken the classic blazer dress, flipped it on its head and turned it into a stand-out mother of the bride dress that will guarantee some head-turning.
When it comes to these kinds of mother of the bride dresses, petite skews are vital as the tailoring needs to be spot on.
Sizing: UK 4 - UK 16
Pros & Cons: You'll need a strapless bra to wear with this. The asymmetric style won't be for everyone, but on a personal level we're obsessed.
38. Leg Split Petite Mother of the Bride Dress - £79, Nobody's Child
When you're petite and wearing maxi or long mother of the bride dresses, a simple leg split can really help to break up the design and ensure it doesn't overwhelm your frame, and that's demonstrated beautifully by the Sydney dress from Nobody's Child.
The colour is sumptuous and the fabric has a lovely sheen to it that'll reflect really nicely in the wedding photographs.
Sizing: UK 4 - UK 18
Pros & Cons: There is a tie at the back, so depending on if you have a smaller or larger bust, you can adjust the fit slightly at the top.
39. Smart Pleated Petite Midi Dress in Baby Blue - £175.20, Karen Millen
For a smart look, consider this tailored dress from Karen Millen.
The structured bodice ensures the fit on your shoulders and bust will be perfect, and the volume on the shoulders is nicely balanced out by the pleated skirt, something that's important for petite frames.
Sizing: UK 4 - UK 16
Pros & Cons: This baby blue mother of the bride dress is giving us all the feels, but there's more choice if you like a different colour. Choose from greens, nudes, blues, reds and more.
40. Green Velvet Twisted Petite Midi Dress - £48, Roman
By now, you know how much we love velvet dresses, and this green petite gown is no different.
The twist is positioned just under the bust, making this a really flattering mother of the bride dress that isn't frumpy at all, in fact it's completely the opposite.
The midi length is sophisticated and you can choose from bright pink, navy animal print and a geometric version if green isn't for you.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: This is the kind of dress you could wear again and again after the wedding, making it a great investment.
41. Navy Blue Petite Mother of the Bride Dress - £55, Roman
Comfort is absolutely key at weddings - it's a long day with lots of food and drinks (woo!), so you want to wear something that will feel amazing all day long - and this navy drape dress will do just that.
The petite gown is stretchy - yes, stretchy! - how amazing is that!? What's more, the drape is really flattering for any silhouette.
Sizing: UK 6 - UK 20
Pros & Cons: The embellished cuffs on the sleeve ends are so pretty and mean you don't need to accessorise very much at all.
Flattering Plus Size Mother of the Bride Dresses
Finding mother of the bride dresses in plus size that are truly flattering used to be a bit of a task, but brands have really upped their game in elevating the quality of plus size collections. With so much choice when it comes to plus size mother of the bride dresses now, we've pulled a few of our firm favourites for you.
42. Ruffle Layered Mother of the Bride Dress in Floral Print - £49.99, YOURS London
Floral mother of the bride dresses are often seen in light and bright colours, which is why this ruffled dress really stood out to us as being unique and different.
The deep navy colour makes it look and feel really smart and occasion-worthy, while the scattered pink flowers and green leaves give it a softness.
The model has paired this dress with a pink clutch and shoes which we think is perfect as it brings out the colours in the flowers, but if you want a more pared-back look, opt for black accessories instead.
Sizing: UK 14 - UK 32
Pros & Cons: The best thing about flattering mother of the bride dresses like this is that they come with an adjustable belt, so you can nip in your waist as much or as little as you'd like to.
43. Plus Size Pink Wrap Mother of the Bride Dress - £49, River Island
We're always voting in favour of pink mother of the bride dresses and this wrap dress from River Island is no exception.
Mums who prefer young mother of the bride dresses should absolutely consider a modern silhouette and a bright colour in order to keep the look feeling fresh and trendy.
What also brings this plus mother of the bride dress into the 21st century is the subtle animal print texture on the fabric - we're just obsessed with it all.
Sizing: UK 18 - UK 28
Pros & Cons: This dress is unique and more of an alternative mother of the bride look, but with the right accessories and a bold fascinator, we reckon you'll be the talk of the wedding - for all the right reasons.
44. Sparkly Plus size Mother of the Bride Dress With Sequins - £129.99, YOURS London
Blush mother of the bride dresses are usually associated with spring and summer weddings, but we love the idea of wearing a sparkly embellished gown like this one from YOURS London for a glamorous winter wedding - although let's be honest, you could wear this beauty in any season.
As far as flattering plus size mother of the bride dresses go, this is one of the best on the market with its flutter sleeves, modest-yet-sexy V-neckline and A-line silhouette.
Sizing: UK 14 - UK 32
Pros & Cons: You could go subtle with the accessories and shoes to let the dress be the star of the show, but we also think this is one of those glamorous mother of the bride maxi dresses that could be paired with sparkly silver add-ons and it wouldn't be too much.
45. Summer Plus Size Mother of the Bride Dress - £40, Roman
On the hunt for summer mother of the bride dresses that are not frumpy? Here to answer all your prayers is this shirred floral maxi from Roman. Available for an absolute steal at just £40 (was £55!), this is a bargain plus size mother of the bride dress that is special enough for your daughter's wedding, whilst being chic enough to wear again at other summery events.
This dress can be dressed up for the big day with sparkly shoes and a gold clutch (to bring out the warmth of colour in the pattern), and then dressed down with sandals and a beach bag on your next holiday.
Green mother of the bride dresses more your thing? Check out the blue and green version here.
Sizing: UK 18 - UK 32
Pros & Cons: The shirring underneath the bust is elasticated and will keep you feeling really comfortable while nipping you in at the waist at the same time. As the print is so bold, we'd suggest simple accessories.
46. Lace Burgundy Mother of the Bride Dress in Plus Size - £79.99, YOURS London
Beautiful and timeless are the words that spring to mind when describing plus size mother of the bride dresses like this one from YOURS London. The deep burgundy colour is so warm and would flatter all skin tones, and the capped lace sleeves give really pretty and elegant arm coverage for those who want it.
This is one of those mother of the bride dresses that hide belly insecurities if you have them (although remember, you're already wedding ready just the way you are!), because of the flattering pleats.
One five star review stated that this is a, "Quality dress that's worth the price."
Sizing: UK 14 - UK 32
Pros & Cons: The keyhole detail at the front may show off a bit more cleavage than you're comfortable with, but the top underneath does a really good job of ensuring you feel safe and secure in this dress.
47. Green Draped Plus Size Mother of the Bride Dress - £75, River Island
We adore green mother of the bride dresses and this one is no exception. The sheen on the fabric makes it really appropriate for a special occasion and we love the way the sleeves drape down. Just imagine the movement while you're busting moves on the dance floor!
When looking for mother of the bride dresses that are not frumpy, often people avoid loose styles, but we actually think these types of dresses can be so flattering when styled correctly.
Pair with an equally bright clutch bag and statement earrings for a truly trendy look, and if you're on the cusp of plus size, or want a more fitted fit, the main collection version can be found here in sizes XS - L.
Sizing: UK 18 - UK 28
Pros & Cons: This is the perfect dress for those who want to feel fashionable without showing too much skin, but there is a little open-back detail to be mindful of.
What is a Mother of the Bride Dress?
The time has come - your daughter is getting married and you need a special outfit to wear to the big day. "A mother of the bride dress is quite simply the outfit that the mother of the bride chooses to wear on their daughter's wedding day," explains Zoe Burke, Editor of Hitched.
You can sport a traditional dress but more and more mothers are opting to have fun with their attire and inject some personality into their look. You'll find tons of designs above to shop now!
What Does the Mother of the Bride Wear?
- Think in terms of comfort as well as style. If it's a long celebration, you'll want something you'll feel comfortable in for many hours. For the same reason, avoid any fabrics that crease easily. You should also think about what you'll be doing on the wedding day - if you're due to help your son or daughter get ready, or do any last-minute décor set-up, you'll want a mother of the bride outfit you can move in with ease.
- Consult your child! Ask them if there are any particular colours they’d like you to stick to (or any colours to steer clear of), and find out whether they’d like you to pick up any elements of the bridesmaids' outfits, for a cohesive wedding party look.
- Chat to the other mother of the bride or groom about your outfit choice – you do not want to turn up in the same dress...
- Take inspiration from the season and the venue. Summer garden wedding? Pastel shades will look pretty. Modern city winter wedding? Consider a bold colour or something monochromatic.
- Invest in a good quality outfit. It’ll last you a lifetime and give you a great silhouette.
- Treat yourself! Have a pampering session and get your hair and makeup done professionally on the morning of the wedding – that way, it’ll last perfectly even when you’re running around after the bride.
- Don't forget accessories. Whether you're buying new or using jewellery and shoes you already own, the finishing touches will really make a difference to your overall look.
Where to Buy Mother of the Bride Dresses?
You'll find stunning mother of the bride dresses in most high street fashion retailers such as Wallis, Debenhams and Coast. If you're after a formal look, consider brands like LK Bennett, Gina Bacconi and Hobbs as they offer pieces with matching jackets and tailored sets.
When Should the Mother of the Bride Buy Her Dress?
Ideally, you want to start shopping for your mother of the bride dress around six to eight months before the wedding date, leaving time for delivery and any alterations. "It is also enough time to find an outfit that you love and feel comfortable in," says Zoe.
Can the Mother of the Bride Wear a Long Dress?
The mother of the bride can wear a long dress, but it is generally best to steer clear of white or ivory hues for this length to avoid looking like you are wearing a wedding dress. If you're uncertain, check with the bride to ensure your long mother of the bride dress isn't similar to her bridal gown or the bridesmaid dresses.
Where to Buy Petite Mother of the Bride Dresses?
Petite mother of the bride dresses can be bought from brands such as Dorothy Perkins and Wallis. If you're under 5'3 a petite collection is perfect as the styles won't swamp your figure and you won't have to get the design altered.
Who Pays for the Mother of the Bride Dress?
Traditionally, the mother of the bride is expected to pay for her own wedding attire, however the bride may offer to cover the cost - especially if they have a set style they want for the wedding.
Now you’ve chosen your mother of the bride outfit, you’d better refresh your memory on your mother of the bride duties in time for the big day…
