Spice things up with these steamy flicks.
Updated Oct 14, 2024What to Look For in a Dress for the Stepmother of the Bride or Groom
We've got etiquette tips and shoppable picks.
Photos, left to right: David's Bridal, Adrianna Papell
Celebrating a stepchild's wedding is an exciting time for the whole family, and as their stepparent, you'll want a wedding day outfit that lives up to the occasion. But buying a stepmother-of-the-bride or stepmother-of-the-groom dress may not seem quite as straightforward as shopping for your typical wedding guest attire. Ultimately, it depends on your relationship with your stepchild, the role you play in their life and the couple's wishes for their special day. Need help deciphering the stepmother-of-the-bride or -groom dress code ahead of the celebration? You've come to the right place. We've got the lowdown on stepmom outfit etiquette, as well as stylish outfit ideas you can shop now.
In this article:
- What Should the Stepmother of the Bride or Groom Wear?
- How to Choose a Dress as Stepmother of the Bride or Groom
- The Best Dresses for the Stepmother of the Bride or Groom
What Should the Stepmother of the Bride or Groom Wear?
Communication is key when it comes to choosing an outfit for your stepchild's wedding. If you played a parental role in their upbringing, the bride- or groom-to-be might be happy for you to wear a similar outfit to the MOB or MOG. That said, if your stepchild's mom is also an important figure in their life, it's important to respect her wishes too. If wearing a similar outfit to the mother of the bride or groom causes upset or tension, it might be best to tone down your attire as stepmom and wear something on par with other loved ones attending the nuptials instead. Dress etiquette for the stepmother of the groom or bride isn't set in stone. Ultimately, it's something each family should figure out for themselves.
FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT
How to Choose a Dress as Stepmother of the Bride or Groom
Whether or not you're following traditional MOB or MOG dress etiquette, we've got a few tips to help you choose the perfect wedding guest attire. There are three essential elements to take into account: the venue, the season and the formality. Let the setting and season inspire what kind of colors, prints and silhouettes you consider. For example, a garden wedding in the spring or summer invites romantic, floral styles in dusty shades of pink and blue. On the flipside, a winter wedding at a castle or estate calls for floor-length formal styles in rich hues such as emerald and burgundy. The venue will also give a clue as to how formal the wedding will be, but the couple may provide a specific dress code on their invitations or wedding website.
Once you've got a few options in mind, the next thing to think about is comfort. Your stepchild and their new spouse will want you to enjoy every moment of their wedding day (which gets a lot more difficult if you've got a zipper digging into your side or an itchy neckline). If you're ordering an outfit online, leave enough time to try it on and return if necessary. It's worth taking the time to find something comfortable so you can fully immerse yourself in the occasion.
The Best Dresses for the Stepmother of the Bride or Groom
Ready to start shopping? We've rounded up 18 classy stepmother-of-the-bride dresses for casual dress codes, black tie weddings and everything in between. The best part is they're all available to purchase online. Browse through our top picks for 2024 and seamlessly shop your favorites with the click of a button.
All-Over Embellished Maxi Dress
This champagne-colored maxi dress certainly calls for a toast. Its floor length silhoette and all-over sequin embellishments are oh-so elegant, making it ideal for a formal or black-tie event. Of course, if you do prefer a pop-of-color, it's also available in five other vibrant shades.
Size Range: 0 - 26 | Length: Maxi
Petite Pleated Maxi Dress
When it comes to stepmom-of-the-bride and -groom dresses, there are options for every style. If you feel more comfortable in clothing with a more modest look, opt for something with long sleeves, a higher neckline and a skirt that falls below the knee. This chiffon maxi dress for petites checks all those boxes (and it's super stylish, we might add).
Size Range: 2P - 16 | Length: Maxi
Flutter Sleeve Maxi Dress
Although navy is a darker hue, it doesn't have to be reserved for formal events. The versatile color is a popular choice for all kinds of weddings, all year round. We love this navy number, for instance, as it can easily be dressed up or down for any kind of dress code. Better yet? It's available in both standard and petite size ranges.
Size Range: 2P - 22 | Length: Maxi
Floral Cape Sleeve Maxi Dress
Wondering if the stepmother of the bride or groom can wear a floral dress? Short answer: absolutely! Floral wedding guest dresses will always be a crowd favorite, but there are a couple of things to keep in mind if you're shopping for one as stepmom of the bride or goom. Since you'll be posing in family photos, opt for a print that's not too loud or busy as this could clash with what other members of the family are wearing. Since this dress features draker tones, it's eye-catching without commanding too much attention.
Size Range: 0 - 22 | Length: Maxi
Glittery Floor-Length Gown
If you've got the go-ahead to wear a similar outfit to the MOB, feel free to choose something that stands out a little more, like this sparkly, floor-sweeping gown. It's also a stunning dress for a stepmother of the bride or groom attending a black tie wedding.
Size Range: 2 - 18 | Length: Maxi
Classic Chiffon Midi Dress
Looking for something in-between subtle semi-formal and all-out black tie? Check out this beautiful cocktail dress. The rich blue hue is ideal for weddings in the fall and winter. The faux two-piece silhouette makes it look like you perfectly styled your own coord set, but really it's all one piece (clever, right?). The bodice is complete with sparkly sequins and the skirt is made from flowy chiffon—it really is the best of both worlds.
Size Range: 14W - 24W | Length: Knee-Length
Sophisticated Strapless Ball Gown
This breathtaking gown is suitable for both moms and stepmoms of the happy couple at a formal wedding. The muted florals add a unique element that won't take over when you're standing next to the newlyweds. Plus, the strapless neckline provides ample opportunity to show off some fine jewelry or let your hair down.
Size Range: 0 - 22W | Length: Maxi
Classy Textured Sheath Dress
Create the ultimate semi-formal ensemble by adding shoes, jewelry and a clutch in a complementary silver hue that matches the beading on this attire's neckline. The dress comes with a coordinating lightweight jacket, giving you two looks in one—score.
Size Range: 6 - 24W | Length: Knee Length
Classic Black Midi Dress
Another frequently asked question: Can the stepmother of the bride or groom wear black? While this classic color has been avoided by wedding guests in the past, nowadays it's perfectly acceptable to wear black to a wedding. In fact, many guests prfer to pick up LBDs (read: little black dresses) due to their versatility. This classic black midi is a re-wearable option you're sure to love for a long time.
Size Range: 14 - 28 | Length: Midi
Modern Wide-Leg Jumpsuit
There's no reason you have to wear a dress as stepmom of the groom or bride. Jumpsuits and pantsuits can be just as gorgeous, and there are plenty of options that work for a formal celebration. Exhibit A: This pleated wide-leg jumpsuit with festive metallic detailing. We're sure you'll love wearing this unique look on the wedding day (and long afterwards).
Size Range: 2 - 22 | Length: Maxi
Metallic Pleated Midi Dress
This cool metallic hue is super unique (and just imagine how great it'll look under the lights on the dance floor). Unsurprisingly, a dress this impressive doesn't come cheap. Luckily, you can save your hard-earned dollars (or spend them on an extra-nice wedding gift) by renting this gown from Rent the Runway instead of buying it.
Size Range: XS - XXL | Length: Knee-Length
Hand Beaded Dress with Shawl
Here's a beautiful plus-size dress for the stepmother of the bride or groom attending a formal wedding. The hand-embroidered shawl gives it an elevated feel that's perfect for an event at a villa or upscale hotel. Pair it with some nude-colored pumps and a metallic clutch and you'll be set.
Size Range: 14 - 28 | Length: Maxi
Versatile Olive Green Maxi Dress
Worried about your budget for attending the wedding? Your dress doesn't have to be a one-time deal. You can make it an investment by choosing something that's easy to rewear for future special occasions. This olive green stepmother-of-the-groom or -bride dress, for instance, will be a valuable addition to your closet.
Size Range: 10 - 32 | Length: Maxi
Floral Embroidered Midi Dress
Your stepchild tying the knot is a joyous occasion, and nothing screams "joy" quite like a festive floral dress. This stylish mid-length option features a vibrant embroidered print on a black background. Wear statement accessories for a cocktail wedding or stick to classic black heels and fine jewelry for a formal celebration. It's available to rent from Rent the Runway, making it a more eco-friendly option too.
Size Range: 0 - 16 | Length: Midi
Colorful Pleated Cocktail Dress
Don't shy away from bright colors. If ever there was a time to don a fun, celebratory hue, it's at your stepchild's wedding! This flirty midi dress is a nice transitional piece from summer to fall thanks to the purple berry hue. Its delicate flutter sleeves and ruffled details bring a romantic vibe.
Size Range: 2P - 16 | Length: Midi
Cute Knee-Length Dress
Looking for something simple yet chic? This short column dress is made from lightweight chiffon and has a modest bateau neckline and delicate lace draped over the arms and back. It could work as a semi-formal or casual stepmother-of-the-bride or -groom dress. For a casual wedding, swap out heels for flats and choose fun, colorful pieces of jewelry instead of formal fine jewelry.
Size Range: 0 - 30 | Length: Mini
Gathered One-Shoulder Satin Gown
Black tie wedding? We hear you. This floor-length column dress drapes flawlessly over your silhouette while offering plenty of coverage (aside from the cheeky off-the-shoulder detail on one side). Its dark blue hue will stun at a formal evening wedding at any time of year, but it's especially on-theme for fall and winter.
Size Range: 00 - 28 | Length: Maxi
Flowy Chiffon Knee-Length Dress
There are lots of places to shop for wedding dresses for the stepmother of the groom or bride online. If you need something that's a little more tailored to your needs, Azazie is the place to go. The site offers custom sizing free of charge (as well as a range of inclusive pre-measured sizes, if you're in a hurry). Plus, you get to choose from a huge variety of colorways, so finding one that perfectly suits your style or skin tone is easy.
Size Range: 0 - 30 | Length: Mini
