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As the mother of the bride, picking a wedding outfit is an exciting moment leading up to your child's special day. You'll remember and cherish their wedding forever, so it only makes sense to wear something special that makes you feel good. Lucky for you, spring is a lovely time for weddings—and wedding fashion. There are tons of seasonal styles, patterns and colors for mothers of the bride. To prove it, we're sharing our favorite spring mother-of-the-bride dresses for 2022 weddings.
But first, a few shopping tips. Before you buy your MOB dress, take some time to connect with the bride. Sometimes, couples ask moms to coordinate with the rest of the wedding party. Plus, it's a good idea to ask if any colors—like white and ivory—are off limits. If you aren't given any color guidelines, pastels and floral prints are classic choices for spring. But don't be afraid of darker colors—black and navy look great all year round. For more style advice, read our complete guide to mother-of-the-bride attire. And don't forget to consult the dress code (here's a handy wedding attire cheat sheet!).
Adrianna Papell Floral-Print Long Satin Jacquard Blouson Halter Gown in Blush Multi
We're starting off with a spring mother-of-the-bride dress that has so much to offer: beautiful pink and purple floral motifs, a trendy halter neckline and an elegant side slit. Accessorize with statement earrings and sparkly stilettos for an even more gorgeous look.
Teri Jon Lace Short-Sleeve High-Low Dress in Black Multi
If you're wondering whether black is an appropriate color to wear to a wedding, the answer is yes! At modern weddings, black mother-of-the-bride dresses are extremely popular. This black cocktail dress has a beautiful floral lace design that's nothing short of sophisticated. We also love the illusion neckline and subtly sheer sleeves.
BHLDN Pryce Off-the-Shoulder Column Dress in Dark Green
Sleek and elegant, this simple off-the-shoulder gown is a modern dress you'll look forward to wearing. For spring, we love the dark green color (but mauve and light green are excellent options as well). Dress it up with silver or gold accessories, metallic heels and a sparkly clutch.
Needle & Thread Darling Meadow Ruffle Ballerina Dress in Multi
Here's a gorgeous mother-of-the-bride dress that's perfect for a garden wedding. Choose from three different lengths—Mini, Ballerina or Gown—using the wedding's dress code as your guide. The pretty pink frock has a vintage-inspired floral print, whimsical ruffles and romantic long sleeves. A few accessories, like simple earrings and nude heels, will complete the outfit.
Oleg Cassini Plus-Size Cape Gown With Sparkle Embellishment in Charcoal
This mother-of-the-bride dress is a simple and sophisticated option that doesn't risk style. The sparkly embellished cape offers the perfect amount of razzle-dazzle, while the floor length makes the dress appropriate for black-tie or formal wedding attire. Neutral heels, sparkly earrings and an elegant clutch would complement the outfit nicely.
$220 | David's Bridal
Black Halo Manala Gown
No wonder so many moms turn to Rent the Runway for their attire; you can rent (or buy) designer mother-of-the-bride dresses at affordable prices. This black crepe gown is a breathtaking choice for a black-tie wedding. The trendy one-shoulder neckline, stylish flutter sleeve and form-fitting shape will make you stand out.
Alex Evenings Rosette Lace Short-Sleeve A-Line Gown in Brushed Periwinkle
This darling periwinkle dress has an elegant bateau neck, V-back and A-line silhouette. The color pairs beautifully with the shimmering satin rosettes placed all over the bodice and skirt. Accessorize with silver pumps and a cute clutch for a classy outfit.
Adrianna Papell Plus-Size Mock-Neck Beaded Column Dress With T-Back in Biscotti
Boho mamas, this one's for you. You'll feel magnificent in this beaded column dress. It has a halter bodice, T-back and intricate beading embroidered all over the champagne fabric. There's also a subtle slit at the back of the skirt for comfortable movement. (Just one request: The color could be considered bridal, so run it by the bride before you head to the checkout!)
Oleg Cassini Three-Quarter Wrap-Front Sheath Plus-Size Gown in Chianti
If embellishments aren't your cup of tea, what about this minimalist sheath wrap gown? The flexible jersey material is comfortable for a long event, plus the fabric elegantly comes together to form a chic twist at the waist. A nice pair of earrings, black stilettos or heeled sandals and a small purse will complete your spring MOB outfit.
BHLDN Petaluma Sequin Dress in Fog
Searching for something that's modest but still glamorous? This knee-length dress is one of our favorite mother-of-the-bride dresses. The blue-gray fabric is intricately embellished with the most stunning crystals, sequins and beading. And the short sleeves, which fall slightly above the elbow, are just the right amount of dressy. Overall, it's a foolproof choice for an important event.
Teri Jon Metallic Organza Satin-Trim Shirt Dress in Dusty Pink
We just had to include this unique mother-of-the-bride dress. It has a preppy collar, an oversized waistline bow and pink metallic fabric that's both trendy and seasonally appropriate. Delicate jewelry, black or neutral pumps and a cute purse will pair gorgeously with this flared, knee-length dress.
Alex Evenings Lace Cocktail Dress With Jacket in Navy
This sequined ensemble is a classy and chic choice for moms. Our favorite part? The included lace jacket that'll keep you warm during spring's fluctuating temps. Sparkly jewelry, silver heels and a silver clutch will look so good against the navy blue lace.
BHLDN Beckett Satin-Charmeuse Maxi Dress in Eggplant
For all the minimalist moms, this satin, sleeveless dress is for you. It has a blouson top and a long skirt—a simple ensemble for a formal wedding event. We're fans of the rich purple color, but that's not your only option. Dress this gown up with strappy heels and silver jewelry, or down with nude heeled sandals.
Lauren Ralph Lauren Leiara Gown
Ralph Lauren nailed it with this captivating black and gold metallic-knit gown. It has an elegant V-neckline and three-quarter sleeves, so you'll stay warm in this fashion-forward garment. And, best of all, you can rent it for $30 for four days—we call that a bargain (which we know moms will love).
Oleg Cassini High-Neck Glitter A-Line Gown With Keyholes in Blush
If the wedding dress code is formal, you can't go wrong with a glitzy floor-length dress. The front and back keyholes and skirt slit add a sexy touch to the sophisticated A-line silhouette. Whether you prefer blush, light blue or silver, you'll feel luxurious and well-dressed as the mother of the bride. For styling inspo, try dramatic earrings, black stilettos and an elegant clutch.
ELOQUII A-Line Dress With Puff Sleeves in The Shape of Things
Dramatic sleeves are on trend for 2022, so why not choose a puff-sleeve mother-of-the-bride dress? For a more casual wedding dress code, here's a modern A-line dress that came to impress. The colorful, abstract design is so chic—it's a spring wedding, after all! And how cute is that mock neck combined with the keyhole neckline cutout?
Oleg Cassini Plus Off-the-Shoulder Ruched Crepe Mermaid Dress in Navy
We're swooning over the shape of this sexy mother-of-the-bride dress. The navy mermaid gown has cold-shoulder cap sleeves, a subtle V-neck and side ruching at the bodice. Make it wedding-ready with gold or silver jewelry, black or metallic heels and a sparkly clutch for spring.
Azazie Hayek MBD Dress in Dolphin Gray
Believe it or not, gray mother-of-the-bride dresses are really popular. This one caught our eye because of its pretty lace bodice and crystal applique at the center waist. Psst: Azazie lets you try on dresses at home for $10 (with return shipping included), so you'll feel comfortable about your purchase without leaving the comfort of your home.
Badgley Mischka Collection V-Neck Long-Sleeve Asymmetric Cape-Shoulder Gown in Navy
You'll be black tie-ready for your spring wedding in this ravishing navy gown. With an elegant V-neckline, draped ruffle shoulders and a trumpet silhouette, you'll feel like a million bucks in this luxurious dress (I mean, you are the mother of the bride!). Pair it with delicate jewelry and black or nude heels to complement the dramatic silhouette.
Alex Evenings Long Ruched Mesh Cold-Shoulder Sheath Dress
Sexy meets elegance with this sleek black mother-of-the-bride dress. The mesh sheath dress has playful cold-shoulder cutouts and unique ruching over the waist. Get ready for a whole lot of compliments.
Adrianna Papell Plus-Size Off-the-Shoulder Sequin Beaded Gown in Lead
We're hopelessly enchanted by this allover-sequin MOB dress. The off-the-shoulder neckline is so romantic for spring, plus you'll have so much fun dancing in the flowy mermaid skirt. To heighten the look for your evening event, add gold or silver jewelry, black heels and a small clutch—voilà!
Mac Duggal Long-Sleeve Draped Jersey Sheath Gown in Olive
You'll stand out beautifully in this floor-length gown by Mac Duggal. From embellishments on the shoulder to the seasonal green color, there's a lot to love. And the long sleeves will definitely be useful for chillier temperatures. It's a formal mother-of-the-bride dress perfect for a black-tie wedding.
David's Bridal Plus Crepe Off-the-Shoulder Sheath With Skirt Slit in Steel Blue
How springtime is this blue crepe sheath dress? It has a lovely off-the-shoulder design and a modest skirt slit for an extra touch of formality. Complete your outfit with statement jewelry and black or silver shoes.
Teri Jon Off-Shoulder Side-Drape Ruffle Gown in Slate/Rose Gold
We need to take a moment to admire the beauty of this floor-length ruffled gown. Our favorite details are the asymmetrical neckline, off-the-shoulder sleeves and glamorous side ruffle cascading along the skirt. Also, the color combo is exceptionally charming for spring. You'll be a seriously stylish mom, guaranteed.
City Chic Nouveau Maxi Dress in Black
To round out our favorite spring mother-of-the-bride dresses, here's a lovely option for a semi-formal or casual wedding. This flowy maxi dress has a sophisticated floral print, V-neckline and complimentary cami slip underneath. Style it with black or nude stilettos and neutral-colored jewelry to let the beautiful design shine.
FAQs
What color should mother of bride wear in spring? ›
Pastel hues, floral prints, and light, bright colors are especially popular for springtime events. While some parents are advised to wear shades from the couple's color palette, others are encouraged to wear whatever makes them feel most comfortable.
What is the most popular color for mother of the bride dresses? ›When it comes to color choices, navy is the number-one most requested color for the mothers of the bride and groom. Other popular colors include blush and shades of nude.
What type of dress should be for the mother of the bride? ›Today, almost anything goes — so long as it's appropriate for the event. So, while you probably wouldn't wear a strapless dress to a church wedding, it might be just the thing for a beach ceremony. However, you can add a lovely wrap or, yes, even a jacket to that same dress and it instantly becomes chapel appropriate.
Should mother of the bride dress be long or short? ›The length of the gown or dress is a personal choice, even for formal weddings. Long dresses and skirts are fine for any wedding from noon on. The mothers do not have to wear dresses of equal length, although many do, feeling that it creates a more harmonious look, especially in wedding photos.
Can mother of groom wear same color as mother of bride? ›Color: Who Coordinates with Whom? Traditionally, the mother of the bride has been the first to choose her dress. The color of the mother of the groom's dress should complement, but not match it. This is easier than it sounds because no two hues are exactly alike.
What is the brides mother called? ›A vicar, a judge or the mother of the bride who got ordained online, the celebrant is the person who officiates the ceremony and has the power to marry the couple.
Who usually walks mother of bride down aisle? ›Traditionally, a groomsman should walk the mother of the bride down the aisle. However, as with most details of a modern ceremony, the couple getting married is free to make any adjustments or choices they would like when wedding planning.
Who walks the mother of the bride? ›The mother of the bride is the last person seated before the officiant, groom and best man take their places at the altar. She can walk alone or be escorted by her son, son-in-law or another relative.
Who chooses mother of the bride dress? ›A: Traditionally the Mother of the Bride chooses her dress first and notifies the Mother of the Groom so they can coordinate their outfits. You don't want the mothers looking at odds with each other because one is dressed more formally or they're wearing clashing colors.
Should mother of the bride wear the same color as bridesmaids? ›Does the Mother of the Bride Dress Need to Match Bridesmaids? No, the mother of the bride doesn't need to match the bridesmaids or the wedding party in general. The bride may prefer to have corresponding colors for a cohesive look, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Does the bride pick out the mother's dress? ›
Traditionally, the Mother-of-the-Bride will select her gown or color first, and then she will communicate with the Mother-of-the-Groom about her choice so that they may select attire of generally equal formality in harmonious colors.
What is the mother of the bride responsible for? ›The mother of the bride plays the role of hostess, meaning you should spend some time greeting guests during the reception. Although there are exceptions, other wedding-day duties may include sitting at the parents' table and dancing with the father of the bride to help warm up the dance floor.
How can I be a good mother of the bride? ›- Never Assume You'll Be Involved in Every Decision. ...
- Always Consider Their Budget. ...
- Remember that Pitching in Money Doesn't Give You Control. ...
- Don't Leave Out the Mother of the Groom. ...
- Keep Wedding Complaints to Yourself. ...
- Get Permission Before Inviting Guests.
Sequined Gowns for the Mother of the Bride
And if you're in a special role like a mother-of-the-bride or mother-of-the-groom, a sequined mother-of-the-bride gown is the perfect way to celebrate! A beaded or sequin dress for the mother of the bride is always an eye-catching and elegant look.
While in some families and cultures, the parents do give a tangible gift to the bridal couple, other families and cultures feel the wedding itself is enough. This means it is completely your choice.
How much money should the groom's parents give as a wedding gift? ›“We suggest no less than $100, but prefer $350 or more since that is an average fee for most wedding musicians when compared to others involved with the ceremony.” Another cost the groom's family takes care of is the officiant's lodging.
What should the mother of the groom not do? ›- Don't overshadow the bride's mother. ...
- Don't act (or dress) like a bridesmaid. ...
- Don't get too critical. ...
- Don't steal the bride's spotlight with your mother-of-the-groom outfit. ...
- Don't try to invite extra guests. ...
- Don't skip the pre-wedding events.
What Does the Groom's Family Pay For, Traditionally? The groom's family is responsible for corsages and boutonnieres for immediate members of both families, the lodging of the groom's attendants (if you have offered to help pay for this expense), and sometimes the costs of the rehearsal dinner.
What should the mother of the bride not do? ›- Avoiding the money talk. ...
- Not checking expectations at the door. ...
- Assuming you already know the guest list. ...
- Being negative or critical of the plans. ...
- Starting a beauty or fitness regimen too late. ...
- Going rogue with the dress. ...
- Buying your dress too early — or late. ...
- Being too matchy-matchy.
The groom's parents precede the bride's mother during the processional. Here's a rundown: After the ushers have seated all of the guests, the grandparents start up the aisle, followed by the groom's parents. Then the bride's mother takes her turn. She is the last to be seated before the bridal party procession begins.
What a mother should say to her daughter on her wedding day? ›
“Congratulations on your love, your commitment, your wedding, and your marriage! May your future bring you joy and wonderment, my daughter.” #19 “I wish you great happiness together, daughter! I know that your love will be proof to all who surround you that love is beautiful, kind, and enduring.”
Who walks the groom's mother? ›As the wedding begins, the groom's mother will be escorted down the aisle, to the first pew, right-hand side, by the head usher or a groomsman who is a family member. A nice touch includes the groom escorting his mother down the aisle. As the groom's mother is escorted to her seat, her husband will follow along behind.
Which grandmother is seated first at a wedding? ›Determine the Order of Things. If both your grandmother and grandfather are in attendance, have them walk down the aisle together. The groom's grandparents should be seated first (his paternal grandparents followed by his maternal grandparents), then the bride's grandparents should be seated in the same order.
Does the groom walk down the aisle with his mom? ›Traditionally, he walks down the aisle solo but some grooms prefer walking down the aisle escorted by both parents. Other grooms prefer a more subtle approach by entering the ceremony from the side of the venue (following the officiant and followed by the groomsmen) to take his place at the altar.
What is the mother of the bride supposed to pay for? ›Traditionally speaking, though, the bride's family pays for the bulk of the wedding—venue, reception, photographer, flowers, etc. As such, the mother of the bride is typically more 'in charge' of these things (along with the bride, of course) than the mother of the groom is.
Does the mother of the bride carry a purse down the aisle? ›Purse: Mothers should not forget to carry a purse. Not only does a chic clutch look smart, it has the added bonus of keeping the mother's arm in check as she's escorted down the aisle.
Does mother of bride give mother of groom a gift? ›It's very gracious of you and your daughter to include her in such a special day. Traditionally, the mother of the groom would not be present at the wedding dress selection, and inviting her to be present is a “gift” in and of itself.
What color should the mother of the groom not wear? ›Colors a Mother of the Groom Should NOT Wear
It's best to avoid wearing white or any color that resembles the bride's wedding outfit. You may also want to steer clear of blush, beige, or other light neutral tones that may appear lighter on camera. "Skip black or white, unless the bride and groom have requested it.
If your wedding is a formal one, some mothers of the groom might prefer to wear shades of gold, dark silver, or even black. Other darker colors that might be worn include shades of : Navy.
Can mother of the bride wear floral dress? ›If you're the mother of the bride or groom, you should certainly considering wearing a floral dress to the big day. In addition to being beautiful, flattering, and downright fun, a floral dress is the perfect way to ensure that your look coordinates with the wedding party and the day's overall color palette.
Does the mother of the bride wear a corsage? ›
Traditionally, the Mother of the Bride and the Mother of the Groom wear a corsage at the wedding. These days, a corsage can take many forms. Classic pin-on corsages are still popular but many mums prefer to wear a wrist corsage or even a corsage which can pin on to their clutch bag.
What should mother of bride wear to outdoor wedding? ›For an outdoor garden wedding, a printed, fitted dress, a dress with mid-length or long sleeves, or even a beaded cocktail dress is appropriate attire for the mother of the bride.
Should the mother of the bride wear black? ›For decades, the mothers of the bride and groom would consider any color appropriate to wear to her child's wedding, with two exceptions: white and black. But just as brides now wear whatever color they want down the aisle, moms are now choosing dresses in any color that suits them, including black.
What color does father of the bride wear? ›The traditional answer to “what should the Father of the Bride wear?” Match Dad's tux or suit with the groomsmen. You can't go wrong having the Father of the Bride wear the same color tux or suit as the groomsmen, even if his style varies slightly.
Can the mother of the bride wear burgundy? ›While burgundy is a beautiful color to wear throughout the year, it's an especially fitting choice for any celebration taking place during the colder months. That's why so many mothers of the bride and groom hunt for the perfect burgundy dress for their children's fall and winter weddings.
How much should I give my daughter for her wedding? ›Of course, it would be amazing to give your daughter thousands and thousands of dollars as a wedding gift, but not at the risk of making your own financial situation dire. Depending on their relationship with the bride, wedding guests typically give between $50 – $150 when making a monetary gift.
Do I give my daughter a gift on her wedding day? ›On the wedding day, giving your daughter a present is a thoughtful way to show your support. If you want to surprise her with a wedding gift, make sure it's portable so it can be moved easily. She might even have a few happy tears for you.
Who pays for the kitchen tea? ›Bridal Showers/Kitchen Teas:
Yup, that's right – the guests don't pay for themselves. The shower might be hosted by the bridal party or a friend of the bride or her family, often at their home, and the host provides food and refreshments, as well as décor.
Navy Blue: The Hot New Colour For Spring/Summer Mother Of The Bride Dresses. Every season a new colour dominates the latest collections for Mother Of The Bride dresses and for the Spring/Summer collections we are seeing a lot of deep, navy blue creations hitting the boutiques this year.
Does the mother of the bride wear the wedding colors? ›The short answer: Yes, but you've got to get it right. Some may think it's gauche for a mother of the bride or groom to too closely match the bridesmaids, but tradition actually dictates that the moms should wear attire that complements what your bridal party will be wearing.
What color does the mother of the groom traditionally wear? ›
The Best Colors for a Mother of the Groom
"Wear a flattering color that compliments the color palette of the wedding," advises Valiente. For example, jewel tones and earthy hues are perfect for fall nuptials, while formal gowns in navy or silver would be ideal for black-tie weddings.
For an outdoor garden wedding, a printed, fitted dress, a dress with mid-length or long sleeves, or even a beaded cocktail dress is appropriate attire for the mother of the bride.
Who walks the mother of the bride? ›The mother of the bride is the last person seated before the officiant, groom and best man take their places at the altar. She can walk alone or be escorted by her son, son-in-law or another relative.
What is the role of mother of the bride? ›The mother of the bride plays the role of hostess, meaning you should spend some time greeting guests during the reception. Although there are exceptions, other wedding-day duties may include sitting at the parents' table and dancing with the father of the bride to help warm up the dance floor.
How can I be a good mother of the bride? ›- Never Assume You'll Be Involved in Every Decision. ...
- Always Consider Their Budget. ...
- Remember that Pitching in Money Doesn't Give You Control. ...
- Don't Leave Out the Mother of the Groom. ...
- Keep Wedding Complaints to Yourself. ...
- Get Permission Before Inviting Guests.
Does the Mother of the Bride Dress Need to Match Bridesmaids? No, the mother of the bride doesn't need to match the bridesmaids or the wedding party in general. The bride may prefer to have corresponding colors for a cohesive look, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Who chooses mother of the bride dress? ›A: Traditionally the Mother of the Bride chooses her dress first and notifies the Mother of the Groom so they can coordinate their outfits. You don't want the mothers looking at odds with each other because one is dressed more formally or they're wearing clashing colors.
Does the mother of the bride get ready with the bride? ›Its up to you lovely! But generally the bride gets ready with her bridesmaids and mother.
Who walks mother of groom down aisle? ›The groom might opt to escort his mother down the aisle and to her seat in the front row, followed closely behind by the groom's father. This gives the groom an opportunity to give his parents a hug before taking his place at the altar.
Does the mother of the groom give a gift to the bride? ›Does the mother of the groom give the bride a gift? The mother of the groom traditionally brings a small gift to the bridal shower. When it comes to the wedding itself, the mother of the groom can give the bride a more sentimental gift, like a family heirloom, to officially welcome her into the family.
What should the mother of the groom not do? ›
- Don't overshadow the bride's mother. ...
- Don't act (or dress) like a bridesmaid. ...
- Don't get too critical. ...
- Don't steal the bride's spotlight with your mother-of-the-groom outfit. ...
- Don't try to invite extra guests. ...
- Don't skip the pre-wedding events.
In Christian ceremonies, the bride's mother is always seated last and the groom's mother is seated just before her. The seating of the bride's mother usually signals the ceremony is about to begin. 7.
What color should mother of bride wear in summer? ›Many people associate summer weddings with a brighter color theme, but an understated neutral color makes a perfect dress for the mother of the bride to wear, too. Cream, ivory, blush, mauve, beige, and even champagne are beautiful dress colors. And they look especially good against a summer sun-kissed skin tone.
What does mother of bride wear to afternoon wedding? ›You can go a bit dressier and choose a floor-length gown, or if you feel more comfortable in a smart pant suit that would be appropriate as well. A dressier cocktail dress is also acceptable. For shoes choose either dressy flats or heels.