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Updated Dec 06, 202316 Grandmother-of-the-Bride Dresses That Feel Elegant and Stylish
Stand out for all the right reasons in a gown that looks and feels good.
Photos, From Left to Right: AW Bridal, Anthropologie, Azazie
A granddaughter's wedding calls for a beautiful grandmother-of-the-bride dress that makes you feel confident and stands out in the crowd. As the grandmother of the event's most notable attendee, you really want to wear a dress that feels special. After all, you'll be in lots of photos and you'll be by the couple's side at parts of the night – you may even walk down the aisle – so you'll want to feel your best. This might mean wearing something a little bit more formal than what the guests are wearing, or at least right on track with the dress code.
A grandmother-of-the-bride dress for a wedding can feel more classic and traditional, like a floor-length gown with a matching jacket or capelet. But it can also be more modern and chic, like a one-shoulder column gown or an off-the-shoulder option. Looking at mother-of-the-bride dresses is a great start, and you can avoid looking frumpy by choosing beaded embellishments and elegant silhouettes. To help you find the best grandmother-of-the-bride dresses, we spoke to Kate Loscalzo, founder and lead stylist of Something White Styling, a styling company that works with brides throughout the United States to help them curate and plan the perfect outfit for all events leading up to the big day. Our picks are below.
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In this article:
- What Does the Grandmother-of-the-Bride Wear?
- 16 Grandmother-of-the-Bride Dresses You Can Shop Now
- Is There a Difference Between Bride or Groom's Grandmother Dresses?
What Does the Grandmother-of-the-Bride Wear?
While there are no set rules on what the grandmother-of-the-bride should wear, there are some general etiquette tips that are good to follow. "The grandmother-of-the-bride should follow the dress code, just like any other guest, but if slightly overdressed, that is okay as well, since they are considered an honorable guest," Loscalzo says. Keep the below in mind when looking for an outfit.
Note the weather and venue.
Aside from paying attention to the dress code, you should also consider the venue. Make sure your outfit fits the vibe of the venue; for example, if it's near the beach, opt for lighter fabrics over something like velvet. You should also consider the season and weather: for warmer weather, choose lightweight fabrics like linen or cotton, and maybe stay away from jackets. For colder weather, layers are key. "If the dress doesn't already come with an optional layer, I recommend purchasing something just in case it's ever chilly," Loscalzo says. "A shawl or formal cardigan are great options."
Don't feel limited to dresses.
Gowns or dresses are the standard for grandmother-of-the-bride wear, but you don't need to feel limited to that. "Know your options," Loscalzo says. "Grandmothers don't have to stick to wearing a dress, mix and match separates are also a wonderful, more modern option." Chic jackets and matching skirts might feel more comfortable, or a pantsuit can look very stylish.
Wear something comfortable.
"The most important thing is that their outfit is comfortable, flattering, and makes them feel special," Loscalzo says. As the grandmother, you deserve to feel and look fabulous, and that means picking something you genuinely love. It's also important to feel like you can really move around in your outfit. "Since grandmothers usually make an appearance walking down the aisle and will be a part of many family photos, it's important the outfit doesn't interfere with her comfort and mobility," Loscalzo notes.
What Color Dress Does the Grandmother-of-the-Bride Wear?
Grandmothers-of-the-bride don't have to follow a color scheme, but it's not a bad idea to wear something that complements the colors of the wedding – although Loscalzo does note you shouldn't match the bridal party exactly. "Soft, classic colors are encouraged," she adds. "For a spring/summer wedding, I recommend pastels, for a fall/winter wedding, I would suggest shades of blue or deeper jewel tones."
16 Grandmother-of-the-Bride Dresses You Can Shop Now
When shopping for a grandmother-of-the-bride dress, keep the dress code in mind. You want to stick to that dress code, and while it's okay to opt for something more formal, you don't want to wear something more casual than that. Look for something that feels comfortable, especially since you'll be wearing it all night long.
1. Rickie Freeman Teri Jon Metallic Jacquard Shirtdress Gown
Photo: Teri Jon
Available in three different colors, this metallic jacquard gown features a pretty floral design and feminine tie at the waist. Elbow-length sleeves and a high neckline make this ideal for grandmas who don't want to show any skin, but the button-down design also keeps it from looking too frumpy.
Dress Code: Formal, black-tie
Size Range: 2-22 | Length: Floor-length
Price at Time of Publication: $770
2. Adrianna Papell Beaded Taffeta Ball Gown
Photo: Adrianna Papell
Glittery without being too overwhelming, this Adrianna Papell gown is a feminine option ideal for more formal weddings. The off-the-shoulder neckline shows just a bit of skin, and the ruffles along the hem are playful and fun.
Dress Code: Formal or black-tie optional
Size Range: 0-20 | Materials: Mesh knit and taffeta | Length: Ankle-length
Price at Time of Publication: $299
3. AW Bridal Juanita Dress
Photo: AW Bridal
If you're looking for stylish grandmother-of-the-bride dresses that won't break the bank, AW Bridal has a wide selection. This versatile gown is a beautiful option that comes in several different colors and works for a few different dress codes. The removable jacket is great for transitional weather in the spring or fall.
Dress Code: Cocktail, formal, black-tie
Size Range: 0-30 | Material: Glitter mesh | Length: Floor-length
Price at Time of Publication: $100
4. City Chic Rare Beauty Dress
Photo: Avenue
For a shorter grandmother dress for a wedding, this is a beautiful option. Lace along the bodice and sleeves is feminine and pretty, and the tulle skirt has a pleasant lightweight feel. This is a lovely pick for a daytime wedding or cocktail or semi-formal attire.
Dress Code: Cocktail, semi-formal
Size Range: 12-24 | Materials: Satin, tulle | Length: Knee-length
Price at Time of Publication: $179
5. Talbot Runhof Metallic Mirrorball Capelet Gown
Photo: Neiman Marcus
Glamorous and elegant, this gown would be beautiful at a more formal wedding during the winter. The capelet offers some arm coverage without feeling too stifling. The shimmering green color is unique and will catch the light beautifully.
Dress Code: Formal, black-tie
Size Range: 2-16 | Materials: Polyester, elastane | Length: Floor-length
Price at Time of Publication: $2,195
6. Mac Duggal Asymmetrical Gown
Photo: Dillard's
A dress for the grandmother-of-the-bride should be tasteful, elegant, and chic, and this one checks all of those boxes. The one-shoulder feels so sophisticated and the bright color is fun, so it's a nice mix. The exaggerated bow at the shoulder really adds something.
Dress Code: Formal, black-tie
Size Range: 2-16 | Material: Chiffon | Length: Floor-length
Price at Time of Publication: $398
7. Betsey & Adam One-Shoulder Crepe Scuba Gown
Photo: Nordstrom
For something more understated and simple, try this Betsey & Adam gown. Made of a thick and stretchy crepe scuba fabric, this is surprisingly comfortable for a form-fitting dress. It comes in a few different colors and despite being a one-shoulder, still offers plenty of coverage.
Dress Code: Formal, black-tie
Size Range: 2-22 | Material: Crepe scuba | Length: Floor-length
Price at Time of Publication: $249 - $269
8. Lauren Ralph Lauren Foil Print Jersey Cape Gown
Photo: Bloomingdale's
This glittery grandmother-of-the-bride outfit is perfect for any time of year, but would especially be great for a wedding around the holiday season. Made of a foil jersey, it has a metallic look to it with a more lightweight feel.
Dress Code: Formal, black-tie
Size Range: 00-18 | Material: Jersey | Length: Floor-length
Price at Time of Publication: $295
9. Rickie Freeman Teri Jon Scuba Gown with Chiffon Cape
Photo: Teri Jon
The flowy cape on this gown has a very regal feel to it, so it's a great choice for a formal wedding. The bright blue shade is very pretty, but if you're looking for something more subdued, they also offer it in black.
Dress Code: Formal, black-tie
Size Range: 2-20 | Material: Crepe scuba | Length: Floor-length
Price at Time of Publication: $770
10. Karen Millen Tailored Belted Midi Dress
Photo: Karen Millen
Perfect for a daytime wedding or a slightly more casual affair, this Karen Millen dress is shorter and has a more structured look to it. It comes in a wide variety of colors, from bold orange to classic navy, and is versatile enough to be worn beyond the wedding.
Dress Code: Cocktail, semi-formal
Size Range: 2-12 | Materials: Polyester, viscose, elastane | Length: Mid-length
Price at Time of Publication: $342
11. Mac Duggal Emery A-Line Hand-Embroidered V-Neck Gown
Photo: Anthropologie
Looking for something more romantic? This embroidered gown is a definitely a statement making option, with a feminine floral pattern throughout, a beaded design, and a tulle overlay. It does have a bit of a plunging v-neck, as well as cap sleeves and a long, full skirt.
Dress Code: Formal, black-tie
Size Range: 4-16 | Material: Polyester | Length: Floor-length
Price at Time of Publication: $798
12. Adrianna Papell Plus-Size Hand Beaded Short Sleeve Gown
Photo: Adrianna Papell
If you want a grandmother-of-the-bride dress that offers coverage but doesn't feel frumpy or boring, this is a beautiful choice. Hand-beading and a floral overlay make this one feel so special, and the cap sleeves keep your shoulders covered but still keep you cool enough to wear this in warmer weather.
Dress Code: Formal
Size Range: 0-26 | Material: Polyester | Length: Ankle-length
Price at Time of Publication: $300
13. Alex Evenings Sequin Lace High-Low Cocktail Dress
Photo: Nordstrom
A classic grandma-of-the-bride dress, this high-low option is versatile and sparkly. A bow at the waist and lots of beads on the bodice are feminine touches, and the champagne color makes this work for fall and winter especially.
Dress Code: Cocktail, semi-formal
Size Range: 4-18 | Materials: Spandex, polyester | Length: Mid-length
Price at Time of Publication: $209
14. AW Bridal Caesar Dress
Photo: AW Bridal
A flattering twist front and satin charmeuse material make this gown feel effortlessly elegant. It's simple but sophisticated and comes in almost every color imaginable. The back slit adds some personality too.
Dress Code: Formal, black-tie
Size Range: 0-30 | Material: Satin charmeuse | Length: Floor-length
Price at Time of Publication: $100
15. Azazie Cornelia Dress
Photo: Azazie
For a more traditional grandmother-of-the-bride dress with a jacket, this gown is a perfect choice. It comes in several different color options and has a removable jacket that feels chic and elegant. Lots of beading adds just enough sparkle.
Dress Code: Formal, black-tie
Size Range: 0-30 | Materials: Chiffon, lace | Length: Floor-length
Price at Time of Publication: $199
16. Adrianna Papell Knit Crepe Tie Dress
Photo: Adrianna Papell
Shorter dresses rather than floor-length gowns have a more casual vibe that is ideal for daytime weddings or more laid-back occasions. This dress is made of a comfortable and thick crepe and comes in a navy color that makes it feel right for a summer wedding.
Dress Code: Cocktail
Size Range: 0-26 | Material: Crepe | Length: Knee-length
Price at Time of Publication: $149
Is There a Difference Between Bride or Groom's Grandmother Dresses?
The grandmother-of-the-bride and the grandmother-of-the-groom don't have to feel like they're competing in their outfits. "There is actually no rule or difference in what the grandmother-of-the-bride versus what the grandmother-of-the-groom wear, just as long as they don't show up in the exact same thing," Loscalzo says. "I recommend for the bride to keep the flow of communication open just to make sure they both feel special, but also wear different colors and/or styles of dresses."
