From Luxury to Affordable Chic, These Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses Are Stunning Options (2024)

• Wedding Party Attire

Nordstrom is a great choice as it has a dress section specifically dedicated to mother-of-the-bride dresses. They sell formal gowns and co*cktail dresses that are versatile for any type of wedding, all in a range of price points (with some looks coming in at under $100). While you can probably find something in the mother-of-the-bride category, there are also thousands of other ensembles available on the site if you'd like to widen your options.

Shipping Cost: Free | Return Policy: Unlimited

For understated gowns that feel elegant and chic, check out Anthropologie's mother-of-the-bride section. It's small but the dresses are versatile, and most looks are classic and simple options many moms will love. The site sells designer names, but many pieces come from their bridal brand, BHLDN, at prices that are typically a few hundred dollars or less.

Shipping Cost: Free on orders over $100 | Return Policy: Free within 30 days

For moms who are on a budget, David's Bridal is a great place to start. The wedding site has plenty of dresses available that were created with mothers in mind, and most of them are budget-friendly and affordable. Also, while many sites mostly sell trendy pieces, David's Bridal has a great range of conservative and traditional mother-of-the-bride and groom gowns, like matching jackets, dress sets, or formal pantsuits. Don't worry, though, they also offer of-the-moment looks, like bodycon short dresses and elegant off-the-shoulder gowns, if that's what you'd prefer.

Shipping Cost: Free on orders over $120 | Return Policy: Free within 7 days

You'll find Betsey & Adam dresses in department stores like Macy's, but they also have their own website with an entire section dedicated to moms. The brand sells standard sizes as well as petite and plus-size gowns, with a range of silhouettes from floor-length to shorter looks. The best part? They're pretty affordable and most pieces are around the $250 price point, with styles that feel classic and traditional without being too conservative or frumpy.

Shipping Cost: Free standard ground shipping within the U.S. | Return Policy: Free within14 days of delivery date

Dillard's is another department store with an impressive mother-of-the-bride section, as well as plenty of other dresses to choose from. There's a wide variety to be found, featuring sparkling gowns fit for the holiday season to floral knee-length dresses that feel more casual. What you'll love the most is that Dillard's has a big selection of brands like Mac Duggal and Adrianna Papell, and they have special sizes for plus and petite moms.

Shipping Cost: Free shipping for orders over $100 | Return Policy: Free within 30 days

For more high-end options and big-name designer gowns, take a look at Saks Fifth Avenue. The luxury department store features stylish gowns by names like Prabal Gurung, Oscar de la Renta, and Marchesa, as well as plenty of other well-established brands and newcomers. Many of the dresses cost a few thousand dollars, but there are plenty of options between $500 and $1,000 as well. At Saks, you'll find beautiful and unique looks that are more of an investment than just a dress.

Shipping Cost: $9.95 standard shipping for orders under $100 | Return Policy: Free within 14 days

With a large selection of both trendy and classic dresses, at fairly affordable price points, Adrianna Papell is considered a go-to when it comes to beautiful mother-of-the-bride dresses. You'll find solid color pieces that are versatile and simple, as well as lots of colorful floral patterns and more modern options like jumpsuits. You can find Adrianna Papell dresses in department stores like Macy's, but also directly on the brand's website.

Shipping Cost: Free shipping for orders over $300 | Return Policy: Within 30 days of delivery date; $9.95 restocking fee + $5 for each additional item

Macy's has a nice assortment of more affordable gowns as well as pricier options. You'll often find brands such as Calvin Klein, Betsey & Adam, Adrianna Papell, and DKNY, plus every type of dress style you can possibly imagine. This is another department store with a category dedicated to mother-of-the-bride and groom dresses, making it an ideal search for your wedding day shopping needs.

Shipping Cost: Free on orders over $25 | Return Policy: Free within 30 days

Camille LaVie sells beautiful and fairly affordable gowns that feel formal without being stuffy. While many pieces feature trendy elements, they all still have a more versatile feel to them. You'll find full-length ballgowns with big tulle skirts, more fitted slinky gowns with slits, and bejeweled options that will glitter all night long. While prices can get high, most stay around a fair $250 price point.

Shipping Cost: Freeground shipping for orders over $200 | Return Policy: No refunds or returns; exchanges within 14 days

If you're looking for a gown that is unique and stunning, you can't go wrong with Sachin & Babi. The designer brand produces pieces that are whimsical and fun, chic and trendy, and sophisticated and classic. You'll find one-of-a-kind ball gowns in bright colors, traditional silhouettes in basic shades, and fun details like oversized bows. The color choices are also excellent.

Shipping Cost: $6 | Return Policy: Free up to 14 days after delivery

Tadashi Shoji makes gorgeous gowns that are fun and flirty, without being too over-the-top. They're ideal for moms who want to wear something stylish and fashion-forward while still looking a bit more classic. You'll find shorter co*cktail dresses that are great for a more casual ceremony, as well as plenty of stunning gowns made of interesting colors with plenty of different textures and designs.

Shipping Cost: Free | Return Policy: Within 15 days of delivery; 20% restocking fee for 4+ items

If you aren't easily overwhelmed, Bloomingdale's offers a huge assortment of dresses and gowns, from a section that is dedicated to the mother of the bride and beyond. There's so much versatility here, from formal gowns and big designer names to more affordable and still beautiful pieces. This is a great place to shop if you're looking for a mix of high-end luxury and stylish mid-range ensembles.

Shipping Cost: Free for Loyallist members or on orders over $150 | Return Policy: Free within 90 days

Maybe the most budget-friendly option on this list, Lulu's offers hundreds of dresses that cost about $100 and less. If you don't want to spend a lot but still want to dress to impress, this is a great site to peruse. Many of the gowns do skew a bit younger and trendier, so if you want a more traditional mother-of-the-bride dress, you may not find it here. But, if you're looking for something stylish and affordable, it's a great place to start.

Shipping Cost: Free on orders over $50 | Return Policy: Within 10 days; $4.99 shipping fee

FAQ

• What color does the mother of the bride usually wear?

  Navy is the most popular dress color for mothers of the bride. It's not only timeless but also seasonless and flattering on pretty much everyone. Dusty blue, plum, emerald, sage, and silver are also great options. But before deciding, you might want to think about how the shade will complement the wedding theme and bridal party colors.

• What color should a mother of the bride not wear?

  These days, most colors aren't off-limits for a mother of the bride—or any wedding guest, for that matter. However, unless the bride specifically requests it, it's probably wise to avoid white, off-white, or champagne, as these are common hues for a bridal gown.

• How far out do you order a mother-of-the-bride dress?

  If possible, try to order your mother-of-the-bride dress at least four or five months out from the wedding date. This will allow plenty of time for shipping, returns or exchanges, and any necessary alterations. Be sure to check the retailer's return policy before buying your dress.

The 18 Best Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses of 2023 to Buy Online