32 Modern Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses That Are Trendy, Not Frumpy

Photo: Sachin & Babi

Effortlessly elegant in every way, this modern mother-of-the-bride dress boasts a sophisticated bow neckline and silky silhouette. It's available in lots of colors and prints, but this bottle green option will stun at a fall ceremony. Complete the look with silver or gold jewelry and a bedazzled clutch.

Size range: 0-22W | Length: Maxi | Color options: Rouge, Jade, Champagne and more

Photo: Neiman Marcus

Neiman Marcus offers lots of beautiful designer dresses for mothers of the bride. Take this stylish wedding guest dress for moms. The lace material gives it a glam feel, while the off-the-shoulder sleeves and knee-length skirt make it suitable for cocktail attire.

Size range: 2-18 | Length: Knee | Color options: Navy

Photo: Adrianna Papell

With its softly sculptured high-low silhouette, this pick is a cocktail-worthy dress ideal for weddings all year round. The lovely light pink hue works just as well with metallic pumps in the fall and winter as it does with heeled sandals in the spring and summer. The pearl-embellished neckline adds even more class to the understated silhouette.

Size range: 0-20 | Length: Knee | Color options: Black, Blue Frost, Midnight

Photo: Rent the Runway

There's no need to go over the top with embroidery and embellishments if that's not your vibe. Minimalistic mamas, you'll look breathtaking in this black mother-of-the-bride gown with cap sleeves. Better yet, you can save big by getting this fancy MOB dress at Rent the Runway, a retailer that lets you borrow some of the absolute best dresses for mothers of the bride.

Size range: 0-12 | Length: Maxi | Color options: Black

Photo: Azazie

Wondering where to buy mother-of-the-bride dresses at affordable prices? Meet Azazie. Their Cecily Dress comes in 20 colors, so there's an option to suit every MOB's wedding vibe. The asymmetrical neckline and pleated bodice add a stylish finishing touch to the basic silhouette.

Size range: Custom, 0-30 | Length: Knee | Color options: Taupe, Dark Navy, Dusty Sage and more

Photo: Teri Jon

Hear us out: shirt dress, but make it fancy. Teri Jon is a go-to for the top mother-of-the-bride dresses, and it's easy to see why. This unique gown features metallic hues and a glamorous feather print. (Oh, and it has invisible pockets, too!)

Size range: 2-22 | Length: Maxi | Color options: Gold Multi

Photo: Saks Fifth Avenue

There's a lot for mom to love about this stunning mother-of-the-bride dress, from the deep sapphire shade to the graceful long sleeves. Another plus? The elegant embellished neckline that adds just a touch of sparkle.

Size range: 2-16 | Length: Maxi | Color options: Sapphire, Berry

Photo: Macy's

Found: the best gown for mothers of the bride looking for something comfortable. This beautiful MOB dress is perfect for formal functions all year round. It comes with a striking V-neckline, short sleeves and eye-catching shimmery fabric.

Size range: 2-18 | Length: Maxi | Color options: Black, Winter Cream

Photo: Mac Duggal

Mac Duggal is a great spot to keep in mind if you're on the hunt for cool mother-of-the-bride dresses. Moms who want to give a little drama, consider vivid hues and statement features. This halter MOB dress has all of that and more, including the most beautiful pleated fabric and high-low hem.

Size range: 2-18 | Length: High-low | Color options: Plum

Photo: Neiman Marcus

An event as special as your child's wedding doesn't come around every day. With that said, feel free to splurge on a gorgeous mother-of-the-bride dress that you absolutely love. This black-tie attire is absolutely showstopping, thanks to the rich navy hue, off-the-shoulder silhouette and cascading cape.

Size range: 2-18 | Length: Maxi | Color options: Navy

Photo: Rent the Runway

Rent the Runway is a go-to for moms in search of the top designer mother-of-the-bride dresses. This gown's pretty blue shade and exaggerated floral detail are a match made in heaven—just like your child and their soon-to-be spouse. Pair it with metallic sandals and a matching clutch for the warm-weather months, or make it feel fall-ready with black pumps and a cozy wrap.

Size range: 0-16 | Length: Maxi | Color options: Blue

Photo: Sachin & Babi

Here's another one of the best mother-of-the-bride dresses you can buy online. This gorgeous gown is made from double-stretch Mikado for a streamlined, comfortable fit. Sheer stretch tulle and cap sleeves at the neckline add an eye-catching detail, giving the illusion of a strapless look. A statement hibiscus flower is the icing on the cake.

Size range: 0-22W | Length: High-low | Color options: Jet

Photo: Rent the Runway

Looking for something a bit more traditional? Opt for this glamorous and elegant mother-of-the-bride dress with billowing ruffles. Add some sparkle with a blinged-out pair of heels and silver accessories.

Size range: 0-16 | Length: Maxi | Color options: Navy

Photo: Adrianna Papell

Beaded dresses are some of the most popular mother-of-the-bride styles, and it's easy to see why—sparkly sequins and beading just scream "celebration." This blush pink gown is adorned with beadwork and gorgeous floral details for a breathtaking ensemble for mothers of the bride.

Size range: 0-26 | Length: Maxi | Color options: Blush Pink, French Blue, Night Plum and more

Photo: Mac Duggal

This unconventional mother-of-the-bride dress proves that short MOB dresses can look just as formal as floor-length gowns. The classic silhouette and ankle-length skirt are ideal for weddings of all seasons.

Size range: 2-20 | Length: Ankle | Color options: Black, Nude

Photo: Macy's

Here's a fashionable petite mother-of-the-bride gown to rock for your child's wedding. The beaded sleeves and bodice make the otherwise traditional gown pop. This youthful mother-of-the-bride dress is ideal for fall and winter weddings.

Size range: 4P-16P | Length: Maxi | Color options: Mulberry

Photo: Anthropologie

Looking for unique mother-of-the-bride dress ideas? Consider this sequined floral gown from Dress The Population. The stunning color, plunging neckline and sweeping peekaboo skirt do all the talking—all you need is a metallic heeled sandal or pump, and you're all set to party.

Size range: XXS-XXL | Length: Maxi | Color options: Seafoam Multi

Photo: Nordstrom

Carrying a touch of Old Hollywood glamour, this shimmering gown by Mac Duggal will fit right in at an upscale black-tie affair. We also have to call out the floor-sweeping skirt and the chic asymmetric neckline.

Size range: 0-16 | Length: Maxi | Color options: Olive, Lilac, Yellow and more

Photo: Macy's

Macy's is easily one of the best department stores for buying a mother-of-the-bride dress. For starters, just look at this sleek blue gown. The silhouette skims the figure while still offering plenty of room to move, while the sequin sleeves add an on-trend touch. Pair this plus-size MOB dress with pumps and get ready to take on the dance floor in style.

Size range: 14W-22W | Length: Maxi | Color options: Navy/Silver

Photo: Nordstrom

Nordstrom mother-of-the-bride dresses never disappoint. This embellished option will accentuate your figure but still feels oh-so sophisticated thanks to the chic bronze shade, long sleeves and floor-grazing length. With its V- neckline and timeless wrap bodice, you'll be getting compliments all night long.

Size range: 4-20 | Length: Maxi | Color options: Bronze

Photo: Sachin & Babi

To round out our floral picks, we had to include one of our favorite botanical styles. Covered in gorgeous green florals, this light blue mother-of-the-bride dress features flattering box pleats, side pockets and a V-neckline.

Size range: 0-22W | Length: Maxi | Color options: Sky Citrine Floral

Photo: Saks Fifth Avenue

You'll stun from all angles wearing this eye-catching floral mother-of-the-bride dress. We're equally obsessed with the sheer cape overlay and 3D florals that look straight out of a painting.

Size range: 4-20 | Length: Maxi | Color options: Vintage Lilac, Midnight, Coral

Photo: A.L.C.

We're simply in love with the vibrant florals on this romantic mother-of-the-bride gown. The off-the-shoulder silhouette and ruched details hit the perfect playful note for a fun celebration.

Size range: 00-14 | Length: Maxi | Color options: Navy Multi, Ballad Multi

Photo: Lulus

Lulus might not be the first site that comes to mind when you think "mother-of-the-bride looks," but there's a great selection of budget-friendly dresses on the site that could definitely work. This strapless floral style would look incredible with a pair of strappy stilettos and statement earrings.

Size range: XS-XL | Length: High-low | Color options: Light Blue Floral

Photo: Adrianna Papell

When it comes to modern outfits for mothers of the bride, a jumpsuit isn't unusual—especially if the wedding is taking place during the day or outdoors. This super-cool MOB attire gives the appearance of a flowing floral gown but really features wide-leg pants. Wear it to a garden celebration with block heels or wedges.

Size range: 0-26 | Length: Midi | Color options: Black Multi

Photo: ELOQUII

Looking for casual mother-of-the-bride dresses? Laidback attire doesn't have to be completely toned down. Instead, opt for something that's dressy but versatile. This vibrant plus-size dress with a pleated skirt does the trick. And look at all of those gorgeous colorways to choose from!

Size range: 14-32 | Length: Knee | Color options: Aventurine, Violet Indigo, Rich Burgundy and more

Photo: Tuckernuck

Casual doesn't have to mean you can't go all out. With its stunning blue shade and fun feather cuffs, this nontraditional mother-of-the-bride dress has "cool mom" written all over it. The best part about this fashion-forward number? It has an easy, flowing silhouette that's guaranteed to keep you comfortable all night long.

Size range: XXS-3XL | Length: Short | Color options: Light Blue, Black, Red and more

Photo: STAUD

A voluminous silhouette, midi length and halter neckline make this dress an instant standout, yet it still looks laid back. Style it with strappy sandals and a fun bag for a casual wedding or beach celebration.

Size range: XS-XL | Length: Midi | Color options: Black, Navy, White

Photo: Banana Republic

If it's a casual daytime wedding, you'll need an appropriately casual outfit. This petite modern maxi dress fits the bill (plus it comes in a versatile shade of pink). The shimmery silk fabric and cascading silhouette will easily elevate any look.

Size range: XXS-XXL | Length: Maxi | Color options: Sweet Lilac, Blue City, Black Print

Photo: REVOLVE

Headed somewhere tropical? This mom-approved dress for casual weddings would fit right in at a seaside soiree. The puffed sleeves will keep you warm if there's an ocean breeze, while the all-over ruffles and romantic floral print will complement any beachside backdrop.

Size range: XS-XXL | Length: High-low | Color options: Multi, Black Multi

Photo: Reformation

Here's a midi-length mother-of-the-bride dress you can easily pull out of your wardrobe time and time again. The georgette fabric and A-line silhouette are just some of the things we love about this classic black dress.

Size range: 0-24 | Length: Midi | Color options: Black, Ivory