24 Best Petite Mother-of-the-Groom Dresses for 2024 That Are Just So Pretty

Stun in comfort and style with these gorgeous looks.
Three petite mother-of-the-groom dresses
Photos, left to right: Maggy London, Karen Millen, Ralph Lauren,
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by
Jessica Booth
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Jessica Booth
The Knot Fashion Contributor
  • Jessica is a freelance writer who covers topics such as weddings, parenting, wellness, commerce, health and food.
  • Jessica has written for sites including Cosmopolitan, Delish, Bustle, Romper, Refinery 29, Reviewed, Parents, Brides, People, Forbes, The Daily Beast and many more.
  • Jessica has a degree in journalism and lives on Long Island in New York.
Updated Sep 20, 2024
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As the mother-of-the-groom, you want to make sure that you're dressed to impress on the night of the wedding, in a beautiful dress that feels comfortable and fits great. For moms on the shorter side, that means finding the best petite mother-of-the-groom dresses. Mother-of-the-groom attire in petite sizes is designed for people who are 5 feet, 4 inches tall or less. These sizes sometimes fit so much better that you may not even have to pay for extra alterations.

There are many options for petite wedding dresses for women over 50 out there. You should follow the dress code for all guests, but since you're playing such an important role in the celebration, you may opt to wear something a bit more formal, like a gown—that's where petite fits really come in handy since the design of some dresses can't be hemmed and you don't want your gown dragging on the floor. If you're not sure where to start, read on for a collection of gorgeous petite mother-of-the-groom dresses for any season or venue.

In this article:

Where to Buy Petite Dresses for Mother-of-the-Groom

Petite sizing isn't something every brand offers, so it can be tough to find. However, there are some notable brands and retailers to focus on, with a wider selection found online. The below options are all great places to start looking for a mother-of-the-groom dress.

  • Nordstrom: Nordstrom is a great retailer for petite mother-of-the-groom dresses. They sell more budget-friendly brands like SL Fashions and Karen Kane, as well as high-end designers like Milly and Zimmerman. The range of styles is great for almost anyone.
  • Dillard's: Dillard's is a great place to shop for a variety of petite-size clothing, especially dresses. They sell petite gowns and dresses by several popular brands, such as Alex Evenings, Adrianna Papell, Jessica Howard and Xscape, and prices range between about $100 to over $400. Dress options are versatile but always mature and stylish.
  • Betsy & Adam: If you're looking for timeless and glamorous options, check out Betsy & Adam. Prices for gowns are usually about $200-$400 and the looks are fairly minimalist but also pretty enough to stand out in a crowd. Many of their dresses are also available in several different colors.
  • Ralph Lauren: For chic and stylish dresses, look no further than Ralph Lauren's petite section, dubbed Lauren Petite. While you won't find traditional mother-of-the-groom dresses, you will find beautiful pieces that are both simple and patterned. Prices are also fairly affordable at about $150-$300.
  • R&M Richards: Those who are looking for more budget-friendly dresses and traditional styles should check out R&M Richards. They sell jacket and dress combos as well as sparkling gowns and beaded options. Prices are usually under $100 or about $150 and they have a pretty good size range too.

The Best Petite Mother-of-the-Groom Dresses for 2024

As the mother of the groom, you aren't limited in the dress you choose. Go shopping with the bride and request their input or ask the mother-of-the-bride what they're wearing so you can coordinate colors or avoid wearing the same shade. Pick a dress that works with the dress code and/or theme of the wedding, but remember that it's okay to go a little more formal than the rest of the guests. You can pick a color that works with the wedding party if you'd like, and unless it's a black-tie event, a print or pattern could be fun too.

Adrianna Papell Petite Floral Beaded Mesh Boat Neck Gown

Adrianna Papell mesh boat neck petite mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Dillard's

If there were ever a time to wear a sparkling beaded gown, it would be your son's wedding. This one features beautiful beaded mesh fabric, elbow-length sleeves, and a boat neckline. It's versatile enough to wear all year long and comes in a pretty green slate shade.

Size Range: 4–16 petite

R&M Richards Petite Jacquard Dress and Jacket

R&M Richards petite mother-of-the-groom jacket and dress set
Photo: Macy's

This two-piece set comes with a dress and a matching flowy jacket. The dress underneath is a tank style while the jacket is a bit more lightweight. This built-in layer makes this dress a lot more versatile—and you can't beat the low price. It's available in royal blue, mauve and navy.

Size Range: 4–14 petite

Betsy & Adam Petite Jordan Short Scuba Dress

Betsy & Adam petite scuba mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Betsy & Adam

This mother-of-the-groom petite dress is made of scuba crepe, a material that is a bit on the heavier side, but also comfortably stretchy and compressive, with a soft feel. The form-fitting style is available in a range of colors and has cape-style sleeves and a really pretty draped back.

Size Range: 2–14 petite

Reformation Petites Casette Silk Dress

Reformation silk petite mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Reformation

Made of lightweight silk charmeuse, this midi dress is versatile enough to wear to other events after the wedding day. It has a bit of a tighter fit, with a halter neck and pretty ruching. The back is also open to reveal a little more skin.

Size Range: 0–12 petite

Karen Millen Petite Italian Satin One-Shoulder Tailored Midi Dress

Karen Millen petite one-shoulder mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Karen Millen

This satin dress is elegant and sophisticated, feels formal enough for your son's wedding, but is still versatile enough to wear elsewhere. It has a feminine oversized bow detail and a long sash that adds a little bit of drama.

Size Range: 0–12 petite

Ralph Lauren Petite Cape Georgette Cocktail Dress

Ralph Lauren petite mother-of-the-groom cocktail dress
Photo: Ralph Lauren

The built-in cape on this cocktail dress makes it feel incredibly chic. Between that and the burgundy shade, this is the perfect dress for a fall wedding. It hits at the knee and is great for the mother-of-the-groom who doesn't want a gown.

Size Range: 0–16 petite

Alex Evenings Embellished Lace A-Line Evening Gown

Alex Evenings embellished petite mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Nordstrom

This mother-of-the-groom dress in petite is an elegant choice. The A-line gown has hints of sequins over stunning lace, and the lining is soft and stretchy keeping you comfortable all night. The eggplant color also makes it great for any season.

Size Range: 6–16 petite

Xscape Petite Estelle Off-The-Shoulder Long Glitter Dress

Xscape glitter petite mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Xscape

This gown looks like it came out of a fairy tale, with a metallic sheen and all-over glittery look. It has a dramatic off-the-shoulder neckline and a full skirt, making it ideal for a formal or black-tie wedding. It would look especially great during the holiday season.

Size Range: 4–16 petite

Adrianna Papell Petite Boat-Neck Short Sleeve Beaded Blouson Gown

Adrianna Papell petite mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Macy's

Opt for a little glamor with this sparkling gown. It has short sleeves and a boat neck, which is ideal for those who want to cover their shoulders. The beading throughout is in a floral and vine pattern and luxe mesh makes it look even prettier.

Size Range: 2–10 petite

Betsy & Adam Metallic Floral One-Shoulder Sheath Gown

Betsy & Adam petite floral one-shoulder mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Nordstrom

The shimmer of gold against dark navy makes this mother-of-the-groom dress for petites stunning and unique. The sheath gown features a one-shoulder, asymmetrical silhouette and a side slit to show a little leg. Pair it with a simple pair of gold earrings and heels.

Size Range: 4–10 petite

Jessica Howard Petite Size Sleeveless V-Neck Floral Embroidered Dress

Jessica Howard floral embroidered petite mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Dillard's

While gowns are a popular choice for a mother-of-the-groom dress, you don't always have to wear one. This shorter dress hits right below the knee and still feels special enough for your son's wedding. It features a pretty floral pattern and embroidery.

Size range: 4–14 petite

Betsy & Adam Petite V-Neck Lace-Bodice Gown in Navy

Betsy & Adam petite lace mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Macy's

The matte jersey material of this dress keeps it lightweight, more form fitting and breathable. It also has elbow-length lace sleeves that make it great for fall or winter weddings and a subtle sparkle detail.

Size Range: 2–14 petite

Alex Evenings Faux Two-Piece Cocktail Dress

Alex Evenings two-piece petite mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Nordstrom

The petite mother-of-the-groom cocktail dress features a scalloped and stretchy lace with sequins on the bodice and a flowing chiffon skirt, giving it the illusion of coordinate separates. The dress is fully lined with a soft, stretchy knit. We especially love the wedgewood and deep plum shades of this dress.

Size Range: 6–16 petite

Xscape Petite Isla Long Off-the-Shoulder Ruffle Top Dress

Xscape off-shoulder petite mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Xscape

This petite mother-of-the-groom dress is elegant and feminine, with a large ruffle at the neckline. It has an off-the-shoulder design with a slit in the back, making it easy to move around on the dance floor. It's made of a thick scuba crepe material and is available in three different colors.

Size Range: 4–16 petite

R&M Richards Jeweled Trim Poncho Dress

R&M Richards jeweled poncho petite mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: R&M Richards

This is a classic mother-of-the-groom dress: It features a shorter hem for those who don't want to do a gown, with a sheer poncho that drapes over your shoulders and torso. The poncho has a pretty jeweled trim that adds a touch of subtle sparkle.

Size Range: 4–14 petite

Mac Duggal Petite Faux Wrap Long Sleeve Gown

Mac Duggal long sleeve petite mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Mac Duggal

Long-sleeved petite mother-of-the-groom dresses can be hard to come by, but this is a gorgeous choice. It comes in a pretty berry color, with a simple silhouette and slightly stretchy fabric. A jeweled brooch at the waist makes it stand out and adds extra elegance.

Size Range: 2–14 petite

Jessica Howard Petite 3/4-Sleeve Fit & Flare Dress

Jessica Howard petite eggplant mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Macy's

Sophisticated and timeless, this dress is another classic. It has a portrait collar and elbow-length sleeves, with a fuller skirt that hits just below the knee. The eggplant shade makes this work for fall or winter.

Size Range: 4–14 petite

Maggy London Carmindy Illusion Dress

Maggy London petite black mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Maggy London

This chic little black dress is one you'll reach for again after the wedding. The form-fitting style features a hem that hits just below the knee, with black illusion netting along the neckline and sleeves.

Size Range: 0–16 petite

Alex Evenings Petite Embellished Boat Neck ¾ Sleeve Ruched Side Slit Dress

Alex Evenings petite black mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Dillard's

A black gown can be super stylish and is totally appropriate for a wedding. This one has a simple silhouette, with a mesh overlay along the sleeves and collarbone. The neckline also has a bit of jeweled trim for a little sparkle.

Size Range: 6–16 petite

Xscape Petite Lana Long V-Neck Beaded Flutter Sleeve Dress

Xscape pink mother-of-the-groom petite dress
Photo: Xscape

Made of sheer matte jersey with lightweight flutter sleeves, this petite mother-of-the-groom dress is breathable and comfortable for warmer weather. The beaded sleeves offer a little bit of sparkle and make it feel more special. The rose color is perfect for spring or summer weddings.

Size Range: 4–16 petite

SL Fashions Petite Ombré Satin Gown

SL Fashions ombre petite mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Macy's

This ombré mother-of-the-groom dress in petite is elegant and stunning. It features a boat neckline, a sash tie at the waist and a full satin skirt.

Size Range: 4–16 petite

Camille Lavie One-Shoulder Crepe Dress

Camille Lavie black petite mother-of-the-groom dress
Photo: Camille Lavie

This crepe gown is proof that simple can be best. Available in black and burgundy, the elegant style features an asymmetrical neckline and mermaid silhouette. Pair it with drop earrings and a sparkly clutch.

Size Range: 0–12 petite

Ralph Lauren Floral Burnout Satin Halter Gown

Ralph Lauren floral mother-of-the-groom petite dress
Photo: Ralph Lauren

Solid hues are a safe choice, while a floral pattern can stand out a bit more. This one, in muted and more neutral tones, is super chic thanks to the slim silhouette, halter neck and long sash. This is a beautiful choice for any time of year.

Size Range: 0–16 petite

Alex Evenings Draped Column Gown with Bolero Jacket

Alex Evenings petite mother-of-the-groom column gown with jacket
Photo: Nordstrom

This set includes a pretty column gown and a shorter, more modern bolero jacket. Beaded sparkle on the bodice and the jacket make this feel more unique, but it is otherwise a classic fit.

Size range: 10–16 petite

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