When it comes to helping the mother of the bride or groom select a dress for the big day, your top priority should be ensuring that these very important ladies feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful as they walk down the aisle. But most moms say they don't feel right wearing a gown that highlights their best assets out of fear of stealing the spotlight from the bride—and we're here to put an end to that line of thinking.
Everyone in the bridal party should shine on the big day, and there's no reason why the mothers of the bride and groom should pass up an opportunity to wear a dress that makes them feel amazing. Whether you're the bride trying to help her mom or future mother-in-law shop, or a woman searching for the perfect outfit for her son or daughter's wedding, know that it's perfectly acceptable for the moms to put their favorite features on full display.
Searching for a flattering, popular cut for your matriarch? Consider a sleeveless dress. Luckily, these styles are timeless, seasonally appropriate throughout the year, and come in such a wide variety, that there's one to suit any woman's personal sense of style. It's time for the mothers of the bride and groom to say goodbye to shawls and hello to chic sleeveless dresses. Here are some of our favorite looks available right now.
Badgley Mischka Embroidered Velvet Trumpet Gown
There's too much to love about this sleeveless velvet gown—we're torn between the embroidered threads, sequin detailing, and chic belted waist.
Theia Antoinette V-Neck Gown
This gown with printed organza and ruffle details in shades of turquoise and blue is giving us all the mermaid vibes.
Marchesa Notte Marchesa Notte Tiered Floral-Embroidered Tulle Gown
With tiers of floral-embroidered tulle and floral appliqué trim, this seasonless gown is moody floral perfection.
Mac Duggal Embellished Column Dress
We love that this dress is both sweet in a stunning rose shade while also a little bit rock and roll with its geometric take on sequin embellishment.
Oscar De La Renta Degrade Apple Blossom-Print Belted Tank Dress
A refreshing shade of spring green and a retro-inspired A-line midi silhouette makes this the perfect mother-of-the-bride dress for a garden party wedding.
Carolina Herrera Bow-Back Column Silk Gown
How many times do you get to be the mother of the bride? So pull out all the stops in this pink-on-pink number with a dramatic, oversized bow for a walk down the aisle that no one will forget.
Alfred Sung Jewel Neck Bowed Open-Back Trumpet Dress with Front Slit
An iconic, minimalist silhouette and trumpet shape is punctuated with an elegant open back and the most subtle bow at the neck.
Eliza J Ruffle Front Gown
We love the stylish, striking ruffles on the front of this sophisticated gown, but the gentle V-shape of the back is equally stunning.
Adrianna Papell Beaded Cocktail Dress
The sparkly sequins and feminine embroidery on this flutter sleeve dress feel like something out of a fairy tale.
Eliza J Sleeveless Side Tuck Ruffle Gown
A flattering side tuck and a standout hot magenta pink makes this dress an absolute stunner.
BHLDN Beckett Satin Charmeuse Maxi Dress
For the mother of the bride who loves a minimalist look, this simple style offers an understated elegance.
Aidan by Aidan Mattox Pleated Halter Midi Dress
You'll twirl the night away in this flirty, pleated number that's made for the dance floor.
Adrianna Papell Lace Mermaid Gown
There's nothing more timeless than understated lace, unless you also add in a boat neck and a mermaid silhouette.
Teri Jon by Rickie Freeman Floral Jacquard Ruffle Gown
We can't get enough of the old Hollywood glamour that this red jacquard gown exudes from its faux wrap neckline to the sweeping side detail.
Marchesa Notte V-Neck Printed Organza 3D Appliques Gown
The organza detail on this monochromatic blue dress is beautifully ethereal and it's balanced with a classic V-neck silhouette.
Sachin and Babi Erica Sequin Pleated Gown
Sequins and satin are always the answer for a black-tie wedding, and this navy and black gown is a refreshing and unexpected color combination.
BHLDN Tansy Satin Charmeuse Maxi Dress
A ruffled neckline frames your beautiful face, while a flowy wrap skirt guarantees you'll look like a million bucks while feeling like you're in comfortable loungewear.
Rickie Freeman for Teri Jon Metallic Jacquard One-Shoulder Side-Ruffle Gown
This statuesque metallic jacquard gown is fit for the most formal of affairs. We're obsessed with its starry print and the dramatic side ruffle.
Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Margret Side-Ruffle Peplum Gown
A bateau neckline, ladylike peplum, and darling shade of lavender makes this dress perfect for a soiree.
Kay Unger New York Floral-Print Jacquard Gown with Bow
We're totally in love with this unexpected purple and magenta combination and the feminine yet architectural satin bow.