Check Out These 15 Elegant Winter Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses

'Tis the season for luxe velvets, jewel tones, and dramatic sleeves.
Our 15 Favorite Winter Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses
Photos, left to right: Tadashi Shoji, Anthropologie, Teri Jon
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by
Sofia Deeb
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Sofia Deeb
Assistant Fashion Commerce Editor
  • Sofia writes and edits articles for The Knot Worldwide with a specialty in fashion and e-commerce.
  • Prior to The Knot Worldwide, Sofia was a writer for Santa Barbara Life and Style Magazine.
  • Sofia studied cultural anthropology and journalism at the University of California, Santa Barbara.
Updated Dec 12, 2023
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The holidays aren't the only thing you get to look forward to this season, Mom. Since you're here, chances are your child is having a winter wedding. Luckily, there's no shortage of gorgeous looks when it comes to winter mother-of-the-bride dresses (they'll also work for mothers of grooms). So, get ready to embrace all of the enchanting parts of dressing for winter weddings, from rich fabrics and elegant long-sleeves to romantic jewel tones.

Before we dive into our favorite mother-of-the-bride dresses for winter, we're sharing expert advice on how to appropriately dress for both the colder weather and this particularly festive season (it wouldn't hurt to familiarize yourself with our detailed MOB attire guide with even more helpful tips). We've gathered some seriously stunning dress styles for you to sort through (think: sparkly gowns, lace silhouettes, and tea-length numbers) to ensure you shine your brightest on your not-so-little one's big day.

In this artice:

What Does the Mother-of-the-Bride or Groom Wear to a Winter Wedding?

For winter weddings, your mother-of-the-bride dress should account for the weather, the venue, and of course the wedding dress code. Stylist Alison Bruhn of The Style That Binds Us, suggests choosing a dress made from a thicker fabric, such as velvet, crepe, or a heavier silk. "Sleeves are also a great way to add elegance," she shares. Mother-of-the-bride dresses with jackets are a popular choice for winter events due to their versatility, but you could also invest in a cozy wrap or shawl to bring with you.

Of course, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to mother-of-the-bride attire (aside from not wearing white), so sleeveless, short sleeves and knee-length frocks aren't completely out of the question, especially if you plan on hitting the dance floor.

As for necklines, Bruhn suggests opting for something that frames the face, such as a shawl collar, slight off-the-shoulder or square neck look. "Ballet necklines also work well for those who would rather have a little more coverage, plus they are really graceful and feminine," she adds. Above all, you should choose a style that you feel comfortable in. "The focus should be on the bride, but this is a momentous occasion for the mother too," so you'll want to look (and feel) your very best.

Finally, you can't forget about accessories. Some of Bruhn's favorite options for mothers-of-the-bride include pearls and any other sentimental piece of family jewelry. A small evening clutch and an opera-length velvet or heavy satin cape can completely transform your look. "You should never forget the importance of the entrance and the exit!" she insists.

What Colors Should the Mother-of-the-Bride or Groom Wear for a Winter Wedding?

You also might be wondering what colors work best for winter mother-of-the-bride attire. Bruhn suggests wearing a color you love, if possible, so you'll feel both beautiful and comfortable. Of course, if you're hoping to capture a distinct winter feel with your look, there are certain shades that work better than others, and we're breaking them all down here:

  • Rich jewel tones, like emerald, sapphire, amethyst, and citrine
  • Wine-colored hues, like burgundy, cabernet, and merlot
  • Versatile colorways, like black, navy, gray and blue
  • Festive shades, like red, green, and glittering embellishments (sequins, pearls, rhinestones, etc.)

    The Best Winter Mother-of-the-Bride & Groom Dresses You Can Shop Now

    As a mom, you've likely got plenty of things on your to-do list. Thankfully, we're here to help you check off one of those boxes. We've handpicked a beautiful selection of winter mother-of-the-bride dresses to help save you a trip to the mall. Whether you prefer something sparky and festive or minimalist and refined, you won't be disappointed with these stylish options.

    Tadashi Shoji Dionne Diamanté Embellished Kimono Sleeve Gown

    Tadashi Shoji Dionne Diamanté Embellished Kimono Sleeve Gown
    Photo: Tadashi Shoji

    You're not just a regular mom; You're a cool mom, and you deserve to look the part. This velvet kimono sleeve gown, featuring all-over crystal embellishments, is sure to do the trick.

    Size range: XXS - XL | Dress code: Formal, Black-Tie

    Current Air Metallic Shirt Dress

    Current Air Metallic Shirt Dress
    Photo: Current Air

    All that glitters isn't gold. . . but this stylish number is. Pair the casual winter mother-of-the-bride dress with a cozy pair of boots and even more glistening accessories.

    Size range: XS - L | Dress code: Casual

    Sachin & Babi Ines Gown Black

    Sachin & Babi Ines Gown Black
    Photo: Sachin & Babi

    With a timeless silhouette and an heirloom-inspired broach, we think this elegant winter mother-of-the-bride dress is well worth the splurge. If you were looking for a sign to treat yourself, consider this it.

    Size range: 0 - 14 | Dress code: Formal, Black-Tie

    Tadashi Shoji Amberly Belted Lace Gown

    Tadashi Shoji Amberly Belted Lace Gown
    Photo: Tadashi Shoji

    Going to the chapel? You'll need a modest (yet stylish) look. This long sleeve winter mother-of-the-bride dress is one of our favorites for a church ceremony.

    Size range: 2 - 20 | Dress code: Formal, Black-Tie

    Sea New York Eliana Dress

    Sea New York black velvet winter mother-of-the-bride dress
    Photo: Sea New York

    Fashion-forward moms: You're guaranteed to love this black velvet midi dress throughout the wedding season and beyond. I mean, just take a look at that gorgeous embroidery.

    Size range: 00-12 | Dress code: Semi-Formal

    Jenny Yoo Ellis Flutter-Sleeve Open-Back Stretch Velvet Gown

    Jenny Yoo Ellis Flutter-Sleeve Open-Back Stretch Velvet Gown
    Photo: Jenny Yoo

    'Tis the season. . .for velvet dresses, that is. With this burgundy gown's deep V-neckline, you can choose to show off your décolatage or accessorize with a silver or gold necklace.

    Size range: 0 - 26 | Dress code: Formal, Black-Tie

    Rhode Anton Dress

    Rhode Anton Dress
    Photo: Rhode

    Here's a look we love for winter weddings and holiday parties alike. Depending on your choice of footwear, this gold dot jacquard midi dress can be seamlessly dressed up or down.

    Size range: 0 - 14 | Dress code: Semi-Formal

    Amsale Pryce Off-Shoulder Satin Column Gown

    Amsale mother-of-the-bride winter off-shoulder gown
    Photo: Anthropologie

    You certainly won't be getting the cold shoulder in this stunning look. Available in three rich color options, this mother-of-the-bride dress for winter is a standout pick.

    Size range: 0 - 24W | Dress code: Formal, Black-Tie

    Lane Bryant Lurex V-Neck Tiered-Skirt Maxi Dress

    Lane Bryant Lurex V-Neck Tiered-Skirt Maxi Dress
    Photo: Lane Bryant

    Moms: You deserve to upgrade your wardrobe. Thankfully we found you a versatile plus-size mother-of-the-bride dress that you'll love long after the big day.

    Size range: 10 - 40 | Dress code: Semi-Formal

    Teri Jon Metallic Jacquard Asymmetrical Shoulder Gown in Bronze

    Teri Jon metallic jacquard winter mother-of-the-bride dress
    Photo: Teri Jon

    Metallics are perfect for winter, so why not go for this stunning bronze gown from Teri Jon? Floor-length, with an asymmetrical neckline and side slit, it's ideal for formal and black-tie events.

    Size range: 2-20 | Dress code: Formal, Black-Tie

    Adrianna Papell Metallic Crinkle Mesh Draped Long Gown Scarlet

    Adrianna Papell Metallic Crinkle Mesh Draped Long Gown Scarlet
    Photo: Adrianna Papell

    Here's a look that will seamlessly take you from the wedding season to the holiday season. Sheer bishop sleeves, a gathered bodice, and a sheath silhouette are just a few of the charming details we love.

    Size range: 0 - 20 | Dress code: Formal

    ELOQUII Velvet Tie Waist Gown Black Onyx

    ELOQUII Velvet Tie Waist Gown Black Onyx
    Photo: ELOQUII

    This velvet dress is as cozy as it is cute. Its flattering silhouette, long sleeves, and side leg slit will have you reaching for it for years to come.

    Size range: 0 - 22W | Dress code: Cocktail

    Sachin & Babi Ramsey Gown Malachite

    Sachin & Babi Ramsey Gown Malachite
    Photo: Sachin & Babi

    All great packages get wrapped up in a bow, and you, Mom, are no exception. This green gown, with a crystal-embellished bow around the waist, is sure to earn you plenty of compliments throughout the day.

    Size range: 0 - 22W | Dress code: Formal

    Ann Taylor Shimmer Stripe Pleated Flare Dress

    Ann Taylor Shimmer Stripe Pleated Flare Dress
    Photo: Ann Taylor

    You're guaranteed to sparkle in this black flutter-sleeve midi dress (and not just because it features all-over glitter detailing). Pair it with booties for a casual event, or dress it up with your favorite stilettos.

    Size range: 00 - 22 | Dress code: Semi-Formal

    Azazie Cornelia Dress Cabernet

    Azazie Cornelia Dress Cabernet
    Photo: Azazie

    Here's a look that's stylish and practical. This winter mother-of-the-bride dress comes with a matching jacket that can be removed to seamlessly switch up your look throughout the night.

    Size range: 0 - 30 | Dress code: Formal, Black-Tie

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