18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (2024)

  • Wedding Guest Attire

By

Dagmara Cintron

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (1)

Dagmara Cintron

Dagmara is an NYC native living in Los Angeles where she is a contributing writer for several publications, covering emerging Latina artists, fashion, local LA stories, and more.

Brides's Editorial Guidelines

Updated on 02/21/24 02:41PM

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (2)

You're entering your mother-of-the-bride era and we're here for it. We're firm believers in comfort being key on the big day, and that's particularly true for moms. Your role is what makes everything possible—so feeling your best from the toasts to the last dance is a non-negotiable. While you're making sure the day runs smoothly to support the bride however she needs, we're here to make sure you find a dress that supports you however you need.

The perfect dress will be your MVP to wedding-day success. To help, we spoke to fashion industry experts and researched plus-size mother-of-the-bride dresses in a range of styles, materials, and silhouettes. We made our final selection based on design, construction, quality of materials, and price point.

Read on for the best plus-size mother of the bride dresses.

Our Top Picks

Jump to Review

In This Article

  • Our Picks

  • What to Look For

  • FAQ

  • Why Trust Brides

This charming number has the perfect amount of mesh and floral details. We’re absolutely loving the embroidery, the fact that it’s fully lined, and the darling illusion neckline. Wear this ensemble to summer and winter weddings alike.

Size Range: 0-16 | Colors: Bluebell, Navy Multi | Material: Nylon

Best Gold

Amsale Cowl Neck Satin Gown

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (4)

Classy and elegant, this golden beauty comes with a cowl neck and a deconstructed corset detail along the waistline that not only cinches the silhouette but adds a unique design element. This soft-to-the-touch fabric is also fully lined and sure to keep you comfortable all night.

Size Range: 0-18 | Colors: Gold | Material: Polyester

Best Neckline

Mac Duggal Off-the-Shoulder Midi-Dress

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (5)

Make a statement with this vibrant emerald fit-and-flare midi-dress. The ruffles on the front, while prominent, are still trendy and elegant. The dress comes with an invisible back zipper, a flattering waistband, and an impressive full skirt. The only thing you'll be worried about in this dress is looking too good.

Size Range: 2-16 | Colors: Emerald | Material: Polyester

Best with Jacket

Alex Evenings Glitter Jacquard Knit Long Dress with Mandarin Neck Jacket

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (6)

We’re obsessed with the glittery top and matte bottom contrast that this dress brings. It pairs perfectly with a structured yet adorable mandarin neck jacket. The skirt is exceptionally flowy for extra flexibility and the entire ensemble offers just the right amount of coverage.

Size Range: 10-18 | Colors: 4 | Material: Glitter Knit Fabric

Best for Summer

Adriana Papell Floral Printed Chiffon Short Dress

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (7)

There are few things better than feeling perfectly comfortable on a warm summer day. Throw on this bright and light number for the perfect summer wedding look. If the wrap detailing, surplice V-neckline, and three-quarter bell sleeves don’t win you over, it's lightweight nature and high-low cut definitely will.

Size Range: 14-26 | Colors: Pink, Blue | Material: Polyester

Best Flowy

Reformation Winslow Dress Es

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (8)

We are loving the asymmetrical sleeves and front slit on this vintage-inspired number. The design is perfectly dainty and sweet, while the waist-tie is made to be adjustable for a tight or loose fit. Throw on this V-neck beauty and hit the dance floor all night long, comfortably.

Size Range: 1X-3X | Colors: Chianti | Material: Viscose

If you’re planning a winter wedding, this ruched beauty is the perfect option. Not only does it have a floor-length skirt and a unique design, but its sleeves aren't too overbearing and are easy to layer with. Did we mention it comes in several gorgeous winter hues?

Size Range: 6-26 Plus | Colors: 42 | Material: Chiffon

Best Midi

Theia Satin Draped Midi-Dress

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (10)

If you're not into the idea of a long gown, this midi is a solid option for a summertime wedding. We're obsessed with the draping and bateau neck that gives it extra shape and drama (the good kind). We also think you'll love the cap sleeves and asymmetrical hem.

Size Range: 2-14 | Colors: Rosewood | Material: Polyester

Best Long Sleeve

City Chic Opulent Faux Wrap Dress

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (11)

The button long sleeves on this versatile number give off a flowy and ethereal vibe. We're also loving the V-neck cut and the adjustable waistband. Not feeling the cinched waist look? No problem—the waist tie is removable. Plus, it's made with a lightweight fabric so you can wear this on warmer days or layer it with a shawl on cooler nights.

Size Range: 0-30 | Colors: 6 | Material: Polyester

Best Smocked

KOH KOH Womens Split Sleeves Smocked Dress

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (12)

Although loose fitting, this dress has a beautiful silhouette that will undoubtedly flatter your shape. Cinched in the middle and exposing only a tasteful amount of shoulder, it offers an elegant and comfortable look.

Size Range: XS-4X | Colors: 15 | Material: Polyester and Spandex

Best for Spring

Alex Evenings Women's Tea Length Embroidered Dress with Godets

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (13)

A spring wedding calls for something that’s not too bright, not too dull, and weather appropriate. Made with sequin detailing, an embroidered fit, and trumpet design, this dress screams spring in the best way. It also has a zipper closure and cap sleeves for a more flexible fit.

Size Range: 6-16 | Colors: 4 | Material: Polyester

Best Short

Alex Evenings Women's Midi Scoop Neck Shift Dress with Jacket

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (14)

Here's another great midi choice—this above-the-knee dress is perfect for the big day. Although it’s on the shorter side, the looser fit and polyester lining allow for enough flexibility to move around comfortably. Plus, the scallop detailing and sequin jacket effortlessly complete this look.

Size Range: 6-18 | Colors: 16 | Material: Polyester and Spandex

Best Sleeveless

Alex Evenings Women's Sleeveless Printed Chiffon Dress

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (15)

If sleeves seem too constricting for the big day, this sleeveless beauty is a perfect flowy option. We’re absolutely loving the flattering cowl neckline, the subtle high-low skirt, and obviously, the complementary shawl.

Size Range: 6-18 | Colors: 4 | Material: Polyester

Best Modest

Oleg Cassini Cap Sleeve Knit Gown

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (16)

Modest is never synonymous with boring. This floor-length gown is made with a glitter knit fabric that brings shine to your look and a back slit that adds a chic, modern touch.

Size Range: 2-14 | Colors: Charcoal, Navy, Plum | Material: Polyester

Best High-Low

JunytDing High Low Lace Formal Evening Gown

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (17)

We’re loving everything about this classy dress, from the high V-neckline and ruffle sleeves to the perfect high-low skirt with beautiful lace detailing. What really brings it home is the wide range of colors and sizes available, and the fact that you can customize it to your measurements by adjusting the back corset for your perfect fit.

Size Range: 2-26 | Colors: 30 | Material: Chiffon

Best Satin

Oleg Cassini Off-the-Shoulder Sweetheart Ball Gown

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (18)

This gown's sweetheart neckline and off-the-shoulder sleeves are sure to impress. Made with a delicate side draping on a pleated bodice, as well as a zipper-closure and full lining, this number is the epitome of elegance and comfort.

Size Range: 2-14 | Colors: Lavender Haze, Dutsy Blue, Gem | Material: Polyester

Best Ruffled

Ever-Pretty Double V Neck A Line Ruffle Dress

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (19)

We would be willing to bet that it’s impossible to feel constricted in this dress. Feel the breeze or dance your heart out in this chiffon beauty that comes in a number of beautiful hues. The look is made complete with an asymmetrical cut and elegant ruffle sleeves. Remember to check the size chart as this dress is not stretchy, according to the brand.

Size Range: 6-30 | Colors: 10 | Material: Polyester

Best Shawl Dress

Yautka Chiffon Shawl Long Formal Evening Party

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (20)

Sometimes, the shawl is the look. Embody elegance in this chiffon gown that delicately drapes over your shoulders, arms, and back. This beautiful gown comes in a wide range of vibrant hues and sizes, too.

Size Range: 2-26 Plus | Colors: 35 | Material: Chiffon

What to Look For in a Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dress

  • Style: We’re firm believers that the right mother-of-the-bride dress should express your personal style while keeping you comfortable. “Opt for flattering silhouettes, quality materials, and appropriate details like sleeves or necklines, ensuring both elegance and confidence on the special day. I love a good colorful print and a classic silhouette, something comfortable, but with an edge that can make a statement in an elevated, elegant way,” says Kahindo Mateene, a former Project Runway contestant and the founder of KAHINDO. “They could also add an accessory like a bolero or sweater to help stand out as the mother of the bride,” adds Jennifer Love, the founder and owner of Bodylicious.
  • Color: Color is so personal. For some, bold is better. And for others, subtle is serenity. “Look for a dress that will bring out your most confident, bold, and edgy self. The mother of the bride should feel as beautiful as the bride on the big day, so adding in flares of color like silver, navy blue, pearl white, or peach are the best colors to gravitate toward,” says Love.
  • Size Range: Like anything, the size of your dress is based on your preferences. But when in doubt, it is advised to size up for most comfortability. The idea is that clothes that fit tighter are generally less comfortable, making it harder to move around and focus on other important things. Plus-sized shapewear helps in this department, too.

FAQ

  • What dress styles are best for plus-size women?

    According to Mateene, some of the best plus-size options include A-line, wrap, and fit and flare dresses. “A-line dresses are fitted at the waist and gradually flare out, creating a balanced silhouette that skims over curves," she says. "With a wrap-around design that cinches at the waist, these dresses enhance curves while offering adjustability for a perfect fit. Fit and flare dresses are fitted at the top and flare out from the waist, accentuating the waistline and providing a balanced look.”

  • Does the color and style of the mother-of-the-bride dress matter?

    “When selecting a plus-size wedding dress as the mother of the bride, consider the wedding's dress code, color palette, and location,” says Mateene. It’s important to keep in mind the overall theme of the wedding. If you have any questions or doubts about your dress choice, check in with the bride for final approval.

  • Can the bride decide what the mother of the bride wears?

    While there are no hard and fast rules, the bride typically weighs in on color and style. Ultimately, it is up to the mother to decide on the final look, although every wedding is different.

  • How much should I spend on a mother-of-the-bride dress?

    Whether you’re going high-end or affordable, the typical price range tends to be anywhere from $50 to $500 for mother-of-the-bride dresses. You can take the size and budget of the overall wedding into account when determining your spending budget.

Why Trust Brides

Avid coffee drinker, writer, and dabbler in UX, Dagmara Cintron is an NYC native living in Los Angeles. She covers fashion, local LA, and rising Latina women stories across other platforms. She obtained her Fashion Marketing degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and is also a copywriter in the fashion industry. For this article, she spoke with fashion industry experts for their best tips and insight:

  • Jennifer Love is the founder and owner of Bodylicious Couture, a brand that focuses on making luxury couture ready-to-wear collections for women sizes 0-18. Love’s passion is using bold colors, unique textures, innovative designs, and more to illuminate women’s natural curves.
  • Kahindo Mateene is a former Project Runway contestant and now the founder of her namesake clothing brand, KAHINDO, which focuses on celebrating the legacy and natural beauty of Africa, using designs and concepts inspired by the founder’s Congolese heritage.

19 Getting Ready Outfits for the Mother-of-the-Bride She’ll Absolutely Adore

18 Best Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Style (2024)

FAQs

What type of wedding dress should a plus size woman wear? ›

Ball Gown. This timeless wedding dress silhouette is extremely flattering on a plus-size bride for many reasons. The fitted bodice of a ball gown clenches at the waist, creating definition and balancing out proportions by accentuating the waistline while also concealing the hips and thighs under a full skirt.

How to look slim as mother of the bride? ›

A-Line Dresses: A-line dresses are a classic choice for mothers of the bride. This silhouette gently skims over the waist and hips, creating an elongated and slimming effect. Choose a dress with vertical details, such as pleats or vertical lace panels, to further enhance the illusion of length.

Should the mother of the bride and mother of the groom wear similar colors? ›

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.

How not to look matronly as mother of the bride? ›

What we recommend you wearing for a daytime wedding, is a swing or tea dress. As we mentioned earlier, this style of dress is one sure to stand the test of time, while ensuring you look quite the opposite of matronly.

What is the best colour to wear as mother of the bride? ›

Try blues, greens, purples, and neutrals such as navy, emerald, plum, or silver. These versatile – and universally flattering – palettes make it easy for mothers of the bride and groom to harmonize. With pale green and blue tints, we love silvery shades for Mum, while jewel tones pair well with other rich colours.

What colour should the mother of the bride not wear? ›

There are certain colours that the mother of the bride should not wear. Unless otherwise instructed, is to never wear white or any colour close to what the bride has chosen to wear. Other standard colours to avoid include ivory, white and champagne. Another colour to avoid is black.

How fancy should the mother of the bride be? ›

A formal setting calls for a more upscale ensemble (like something floor-length), while a shorter, more casual wedding outfit is appropriate for laid-back celebrations. Take inspiration from the wedding gown and bridesmaid dresses, as these can help influence what dress length the mother of the bride should wear.

What color is the groom's mother supposed to wear? ›

What Colour Can the Mother of the Groom Wear? Opt for colours that complement the wedding palette. Jewel tones, pastels, and navy are popular choices that photograph well and add a touch of sophistication.

Does the groom's mother get ready with the bride? ›

For starters, it is quite common for the groom's mom to be with the bride the morning of the wedding. "Most often times we see the mother of the groom getting ready with the mother of the bride in the bridal suite," says Manda Worthington, event planner, founder, and CEO of Mae&Co.

How can I look stunning as the mother of the bride? ›

While dressing in too revealing a style isn't advisable for any guest, you can dress to emphasise your assets - a sleeveless dress to show toned arms, belts to highlight your waist or a shorter length for great legs. Keep styling simple and avoid too much embellishment, which can look fussy in photos.

What role does the mother of the bride play in a wedding? ›

Play Hostess at Pre-Wedding Parties and on the Big Day

Whether she's handling your bridal shower or greeting out-of-town guests once they arrive in town for your nuptials, the mother of the bride is the official hostess and should focus on helping each attendee feel welcome.

How far in advance should the mother of the bride look for a dress? ›

Generally, we recommend giving yourself 6-8 months to shop for the right dress. You want enough time to find a dress you love and get any necessary alterations before the big day, so that your dress fits perfectly for the wedding.

What kind of wedding dress is slimming? ›

An A-line gown hugs the waist area, creating a slimmer waistline while flattering the bust,” he says. “It can make a petite bride look taller with its overall slimming effect.”

What is the best wedding dress style for hourglass plus-size? ›

If you are looking to show off the curves that you have, bust, waist, hips, then choose a Fit and Flare style. Trumpet, mermaid, or bias cut gown would also be great choices for you. Ruching at the waist, or a fabulous beaded belt will emphasize your narrowest asset.

What do you wear under a plus-size wedding dress? ›

Choose the proper undergarments.

Shapewear is often used to achieve a slimmer and flatter figure but it can also be used to provide a little extra coverage and support. Some undergarments that you may need to consider is a supportive bra, spanx, high-waist shapewear, seamless underwear or a form-fitted slip gown.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Laurine Ryan

Last Updated:

Views: 6174

Rating: 4.7 / 5 (57 voted)

Reviews: 80% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Laurine Ryan

Birthday: 1994-12-23

Address: Suite 751 871 Lissette Throughway, West Kittie, NH 41603

Phone: +2366831109631

Job: Sales Producer

Hobby: Creative writing, Motor sports, Do it yourself, Skateboarding, Coffee roasting, Calligraphy, Stand-up comedy

Introduction: My name is Laurine Ryan, I am a adorable, fair, graceful, spotless, gorgeous, homely, cooperative person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.