19 Mother-of-the-Groom Dresses for an Outdoor Wedding

Plus, expert tips on what features are most important in outdoor attire.
Three mother-of-the-groom dresses for outdoor weddings
Photos, left to right: Azazie, Rent the Runway, Teri Jon
Elle Cashin headshot
by
Elle Cashin
Elle Cashin headshot
Elle Cashin
The Knot Fashion Contributor
  • Elle writes for The Knot online with a focus on fashion, covering gown design trends and shoppable accessories.
  • Elle is a contributor to wedding publications across the country, including Brides, The New York Times Vows and Modern Luxury Weddings.
  • Prior to shifting to weddings, Elle covered lifestyle, culture and celebrity across Chicago as the editor of the Chicago Tribune’s SPLASH magazine, where she interviewed cele...
Updated Oct 08, 2024
We have included third party products to help you navigate and enjoy life’s biggest moments. Purchases made through links on this page may earn us a commission.

The mother-of-the-bride dress gets a lot of love and attention—but what about the mother of the groom? Mother-of-the-groom dresses for an outdoor wedding, or any wedding, of course, are equally as important; they're just shopped a little differently. "The main distinction between a mother-of-the-bride dress and a mother-of-the-groom dress often comes down to color coordination and the order in which they are selected," explains Leora Platt, creative director at Teri Jon, a go-to brand for both MOBs and MOGs. "Traditionally, the mother of the bride selects her dress first, setting a tone for the wedding's style and formality. The mother of the groom then chooses a dress that compliments the color scheme and style without matching too closely." But remember, she adds: "Ultimately, both mothers play significant roles in the celebration, and their attire reflects their unique contributions to the special day." In other words: Your dress should stand out.

Factor in the great outdoors, and there's even more to think about. "When selecting a dress for an outdoor wedding, mothers of the groom should focus on a few key elements that combine style, comfort and practicality," says Platt, highlighting length, sleeves and fabric as the top items to focus on. For length, look for midi, tea-length or high-low hems as a first priority. They make it easier to traverse uneven terrain without dragging through the elements. (Full-length styles are also acceptable; just be sure you know what the aisle is made of and wear the right shoes.)

Next, "consider dresses with short or three-quarter sleeves, which provide a bit of coverage while still being comfortable in warmer weather," Platt says. "Alternatively, sleeveless options can be paired with a stylish shawl or wrap, offering adaptability for different temperatures." And finally, fabric. "Lightweight, breathable fabrics like chiffon, lace or silk blends are great choices for outdoor settings; these materials offer a beautiful drape and keep you cool and comfortable throughout the day," Platt says.

When selecting color and pattern for your outdoor wedding attire, aim to complement, rather than compete with, the setting. Platt loves pastels, neutrals and botanical prints for spring and summer; and deep jewel tones, darker florals and metallics for fall and winter.

And remember, as the matriarch, you're never alone. When shopping, "bringing along a trusted companion—like a close friend or even the bride and the bride's mother—can be incredibly helpful," Platt says. "Their honest feedback and support can make the shopping process smoother and ensure you choose a dress that reflects your personal style while complementing the wedding theme." She also recommends working with a stylist; Teri Jon offers complimentary stylist consultations. "We want mothers of the groom to feel confident and beautiful on such an important occasion.

The Best Mother-of-the-Groom Dresses for an Outdoor Wedding

When shopping for mother-of-the-groom dresses for an outdoor wedding, don't hold back. "Many assume that dress codes for outdoor weddings lean toward the casual due to the natural setting," Platt says, "but they actually present a wonderful opportunity to embrace a more whimsical and festive style." Hone in on your personal style and decide which elements—length, silhouette, print—are most important to you, then start your search. Don't forget: Just like with the bridal gown, you'll want to leave time for alterations to ensure a fabulous fit. Then, finish your look with accessories like earrings, practical statement shoes and a bag.

1. Teri Jon Chiffon Puff-Sleeve Pleated V-Neck Gown in Fuchsia

Teri Jon fuchsia mother-of-the-groom dress for outdoor wedding
Photo: Teri Jon

"This puff sleeve gown is perfect for an outdoor wedding," Platt says. "Made from lightweight chiffon, it's breathable and ideal for warmer weather, keeping you comfortable while maintaining a graceful appearance." Plus, the pleated crisscross bodice is super flattering.

Size Range: 0–22 | Colors: 7

2. Azazie Isa A-Line V-Neck Pleated Chiffon Dress in Champagne

Azazie champagne chiffon mother-of-the-groom dress for outdoor weddings
Photo: Azazie

Caped styles are both stylish and practical when it comes to outdoor wedding dresses for the mother of the groom; they provide coverage and warmth while setting you apart from the crowd. This one's floor-length cape is slightly sheer so as not to appear shapeless. It's available in 38 hues to match nearly any wedding palette, but we love the elegance of chic, subtle champagne.

Size Range: 0–30, custom sizing available | Colors: 38

3. Sachin & Babi Shay Dress in Forest Green

Sahin & Babi green floral mother-of-the-groom dress for outdoor weddings
Photo: Sachin & Babi

Tea-length dresses come highly recommended for outdoor weddings—whether you're a guest, mother-of or bridesmaid—and this one is lovely for a cocktail-attire affair. The material and color scheme are formal, while the floral design gives a nod to nature. We love it for fall and winter weddings; add a chic shawl over top.

Size Range: 0–14 | Colors: 1

4. Ralph Lauren Floral Belted Flutter-Sleeve Gown in Olive Multi

Ralph Lauren floral mother-of-the-groom dress for outdoor weddings
Photo: Ralph Lauren

For rustic outdoor wedding mother-of-the-groom dresses, lean into earthy tones. This Ralph Lauren dress has a woodsy, autumnal paisley palette, with boho detailing in the flutter sleeves and cascading ruffle. We love it for a backyard wedding.

Size Range: 00–18 | Colors: 1

5. Emily Shalant Taffeta Ballgown Skirt in Navy

Emily Shalant navy ballgown skirt mother-of-the-groom outfit for outdoor wedding
Photo: Emily Shalant

File this under "fun to wear": A taffeta ballgown skirt is fit for a queen but, actually, more versatile than you'd think. This can be dressed up or down as an outdoor wedding mother-of-the-groom look; we love it with designer Emily Shalant's signature sequined tee. Pair it with cool cowgirl boots underneath, especially for rustic, mountain chic or vineyard weddings.

Size Range: 0–18 | Colors: 1

6. Teri Jon Tea Length Embroidered Tulle Cocktail Dress in Navy Multi

Teri Jon tea length mother of the groom dress for outdoor wedding
Photo: Teri Jon

Platt loves the ease of movement and comfort of a tea-length dress, and this one is among her top picks for an outdoor wedding. "The lightweight tulle fabric and delicate floral embroidery add a romantic, nature-inspired touch," she says. "The A-line silhouette and soft color palette ensure a refined look that's perfect for both day-long events and evening celebrations."

Size Range: 0–22 | Colors: 1

7. Sachin & Babi Pryce Gown and Hug Shawl in Rhodolite

Sachin & Babi pink gown and shawl mother-of-the-groom outfit for outdoor wedding
Photo: Sachin & Babi

For black-tie outdoor weddings, look for a shawl, wrap or jacket in the same color or material as your gown to create a unified look. Sachin & Babi offers exactly that with its elevated Hug Shawl and matching Pryce Gown. Add diamond drop earrings to complete the look.

Size Range: S/M–L/XL (shawl); 0–14 (gown) | Colors: 1 (shawl), 1 (gown)

8. Adrianna Papell Hand-Beaded Short Sleeve Floral Godet Gown in Dusty Emerald

Adrianna Papell green beaded mother-of-the-groom dress for outdoor weddings
Photo: Adrianna Papell

Embellishments are typically kept to a minimum for outdoor weddings—so as not to compete with nature's beauty—but there's definitely an exception: We love a little shimmer for evening outdoor weddings. You're sure to sparkle under the stars in this stunner from Adrianna Papell, which features floral beading that catches the light.

Size Range: 0–20 | Colors: 10

9. Mac Duggal Floral Embellished Jersey Gown in Black Multi

Mac Duggal floral mother-of-the-groom dress for outdoor wedding
Photo: Mac Duggal

If black is your fashion go-to, find a way to make it stand out for your mother-of-the-groom look. Here, a bouquet of florals blooms across the neckline over illusion tulle, seeming to float and work like a topper over the shoulders. It's a great best-of-both-worlds piece; we envision it at a winery wedding.

Size Range: 2–18 | Colors: 1

10. Teri Jon Metallic Jacquard Shirtdress With Floral Print in Champagne

Teri Jon metallic jacquard mother-of-the-groom shirt dress for outdoor wedding
Photo: Teri Jon

"With a shimmering metallic jacquard fabric, this dress catches the light beautifully in outdoor settings," Platt says. "The shirtdress design flatters with a defined waist and a flowing skirt, while the vibrant floral print enhances the fresh, lively feel of the dress, ideal for a garden wedding." The best part? It's available in a cocktail-length or floor-length version, offering flexibility for different types of settings; the longer style has an optional front slit for easy movement on uneven surfaces.

Size Range: 0–22 | Colors: 3

11. FARM Rio Banana Tree Tie Euroflax Premium Linen Dress

FARM Rio banana tree print linen mother-of-the-groom dress for outdoor weddings
Photo: FARM Rio

Fashion-forward mothers of the groom, this one's for you. Perfect for an evening beach wedding or another chic destination setting, this Farm Rio dress features a unique banana tree appliqué, an on-trend one-shoulder silhouette and beaded fringe detailing. It's unexpected and sure to stand out from the crowd.

Size Range: XXS–XL | Colors: 1

12. Azazie Anitta Dusty Blue Pantsuit/Jumpsuit

Azazie blue chiffon mother-of-the-groom pantsuit for outdoor weddings
Photo: Azazie

Depending on the venue and location, mother-of-the-groom dresses for an outdoor wedding may require the ability to traverse uneven terrain. In that case, opt for pants over a dress. This easy jumpsuit has the look of a gown thanks to its chiffon overskirt, but still has all the practicality of pants. It's available in a wide range of colors, from Dusty Blue to Blushing Pink to Plum.

Size Range: 0–30, custom sizing available | Colors: 23

13. Teri Jon Lace Short Sleeve High Low Dress

Teri Jon lace high-low mother-of-the-groom dress for outdoor weddings
Photo: Teri Jon

This black tea-length dress from Teri Jon is a beautifully elegant choice for an outdoor wedding. The intricate 3D floral pattern is sure to impress, while the three-quarter sleeves provide coverage without being too heavy. We love the unique silhouette of the high-low skirt.

Size Range: 2–22 | Colors: 1

14. Badgley Mischka Drape Dolman Gown

Badgley Mischka pink drape mother-of-the-groom dress for outdoor weddings
Photo: Rent the Runway

Draped or cape-like sleeves are a practical alternative to wearing a jacket or shawl, which can be just one more thing to worry about for busy mothers of the groom. This Badgley Mischka dress (available to rent!) is the perfect example—plus, it's fashion-forward. We love this for an early spring affair.

Size Range: 0–16 | Colors: 1

15. Mac Duggal Chiffon Ruched Illusion Raglan-Sleeve Gown in Magenta

Mac Duggal chiffon magenta mother-of-the-groom dress for outdoor wedding
Photo: Macy's

Platt suggests rich jewel tones for winter outdoor wedding mother-of-the-groom dresses, such as this striking magenta. Here, the sleeves also add seasonality—but they're sheer, so the dress still has the look of a cool pleated halter. Pair it with statement earrings in a complementary hue.

Size Range: 4–20 | Colors: 5

16. Tuckernuck Feather Mod Mary Dress in Hot Pink

Tuckernuck pink feather mini mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Tuckernuck

Outdoor weddings are the perfect place to go bold with vibrant solid hues, and for summer affairs, we love a hot neon pink. Plus, the great outdoors offers a little more leniency with hemlines; if you want to go above the knee, here's the place to do it. Still, though, this style has unique and formal details like long sleeves and whimsical feather accents that make it wedding-ready.

Size Range: XXS–XXXL | Colors: 1

17. BHLDN Jemma Scoop Neck Fit-and-Flare Maxi Dress

BHLDN pink maxi mother-of-the-groom dress for outdoor weddings
Photo: Anthropologie

If tapping trends is important, this mother-of-the-groom dress for an outdoor wedding is a winner: It's got a scoop neckline, a subtle basque waist, visible boning and an easy maxi length (which hits around the ankles, ideal for outdoor weddings). And yet, the clean lines and chic silhouette are also totally timeless—so you won't regret the trending choice. Pair with whimsical accessories for spring and summer weddings.

Size Range: XXS–XL | Colors: 1

18. Teri Jon Crepe Off-Shoulder Embroidered Tulle Dress

Teri Jon off-shoulder mother-of-the-groom dress for outdoor weddings
Photo: Teri Jon

For warm summer weddings, off-the-shoulder styles provide coverage without the weight of sleeves. This Teri Jon style is a pretty choice, with delicate floral embroidery that enhances the natural surroundings, Platt says. "The navy hue brings timeless sophistication, and the structured bodice ensures a polished fit for the occasion."

Size Range: 0–22 | Colors: 1

19. Eloquii Plus-Size Satin Puff-Sleeve Pleated Dress in Light Tan

Eloquii light tan mother-of-the-groom dress for outdoor wedding
Photo: Eloquii

Satin is a lightweight fabric we particularly love for fall weddings and this satin style has just the right silhouette for the season, too. Long puff sleeves and a wrap-front skirt that hits just above the ankle are also great elements for outdoor weddings. Pair this plus-size mother-of-the-groom dress for an outdoor wedding with a statement shoe and a cool clutch.

Size Range: 14–32 | Colors: 2

Up Next
  • Groom and his mother wearing crowns at wedding reception
    20 Mother of the Groom Shoes to Shop Now