These 18 Winter Dresses for the Mother of the Bride Prove You Can Look Stylish in Any Season

'Tis the season for luxe velvets, jewel tones and dramatic sleeves.

Three winter mother-of-the-bride dresses

Photos, left to right: Azazie, David's Bridal, Adrianna Papell

Updated Nov 01, 2024

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 (Psst: they'll also work for mothers of grooms). Our editor-approved picks–featuring rich fabrics, elegant long-sleeves to romantic jewel tones–will have you ready to step into the season in style.

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 the big day.

In this article:

What Does the Mother-of-the-Bride or Groom Wear to a Winter Wedding?
What Colors Should the Mother-of-the-Bride Wear for a Winter Wedding?
The Best Winter Dresses for Mother of the Bride

What Does the Mother of the Bride 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 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 Dresses for Mother-of-the-Bride

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.

Adrianna Papell Metallic Long Sleeve Surplice Dress

Adrianna Papell metallic long sleeve mother-of-the-bride winter dress

Here's a dress that will seamlessly take you from wedding season to holiday season. Sheer bishop sleeves, a gathered bodice, and sparkly metallic fabric are just a few of its details we love. Its classic sheath silhouette makes it ideal for any occasion on your calendar this winter.

Size range: 0–18 | Dress code: Formal

$229 | Dillard's

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

Jenny Yoo velvet flutter-sleeve winter mother-of-the-bride dress

This red wedding guest dress is the ideal way to ring in winter. Its festive color will look great at any event you're attending this season. Its simple silhouette also offers the perfect blank canvas for accessories, whether you choose to keep it simple or go bold.

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

$295 | Anthropologie

Azazie Dion Gown

Azazie blue winter mother-of-the-bride dress

Going to the chapel? You'll need a modest wedding guest dress to get you there in style. Luckily, we found just the look. With a high neckline and an attached cape, this stretch crepe maxi dress offers enough coverage for a church or temple ceremony.

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

$139 | Azazie

Mac Duggal Sequined V-Neck Short Puff Sleeve Midi Dress

Mac Duggal sequin puff-sleeve winter mother-of-the-bride dress

Here's a winter mother-of-the-bride dress that can double as your New Year's Eve party dress. The ultra-festive ensemble features a deep V-neckline, short puff sleeves, and a knee-length column silhouette. Pair it with some shimmery accessories and get ready to turn heads.

Size range: 2–20 | Dress code: Cocktail

$498 | Mac Duggal

ELOQUII Velvet Tie Waist Gown

ELOQUII black velvet winter mother-of-the-bride dress

This velvet wedding guest dress is as cozy as it is cute. It features a flattering ruched waistline, long sleeves, and side leg slit. Its timeless design will have you reaching for it for years to come. Choose between this classic black option or a jewel-toned shade like red or blue.

Size range: 14–32 | Dress code: Formal, black-tie

$120 | ELOQUII

Connected Apparel Stevie Dress

Connected Apparel black winter mother-of-the-bride midi dress

What this dress lacks in length it makes up for in charm. Its comfortable stretch lace silhouette is met with flowy chiffon sleeves. Sequin details give the look an extra festive touch. Pair it with black tights and a set of patent pumps and you'll be set.

Size range: 4–16 | Dress code: Cocktail

$79 | Connected Apparel

Mac Duggal High Neck Long Sleeve Crystal Detail Dress

Mac Duggal satin green winter mother-of-the-bride dress

This winter wedding mother-of-the-bride dress proves that a little bit of sparkle goes a long way. Its streamlined satin silhouette is accented with a trim of crystals around the neck. Other noteworthy details include its long balloon sleeves and bias-cut skirt.

Size range: 2–16 | Dress code: Cocktail

$398 | Mac Duggal

Tuckernuck Black Clea Dress

Tuckernuck black off-the-shoulder mother-of-the-bride winter dress

This off-the-shoulder black midi dress will quickly become your new wedding wardrobe MVP. Because it can easily be dressed up or down depending on the shoes and accessories you pair with it, it's perfect for any occasion on your calendar this season.

Size range: XXS–XXL | Dress code: Semi-formal, Cocktail

$228 | Tuckernuck

Oleg Cassini One-Shoulder Glitter Knit Sheath Dress

Oleg Cassini one-shoulder glitter winter mother-of-the-bride dress

You're not just a regular mom; You're a cool mom, and you deserve to look the part. Fortunately, this winter mother-of-the-bride dress is sure to do the trick. The modern maxi dress features an asymmetric neckline, three-quarter length sleeves and sparkles from top to bottom.

Size range: 2–24W | Dress code: Formal, Black-tie

$140 | David's Bridal

Pisarro Nights Beaded Bodice Taffeta A-Line Gown

Pisarro Nights beaded taffeta winter mother-of-the-bride dress

It's true what they say: All that glitters isn't gold. This sparkly dress, for instance, is black. Its sequin-adorned bodice is guaranteed to glisten under the dance floor lights. Plus, thanks to its airy A-line skirt, you won't be restricted as you show off your moves.

Size range: 4–18 | Dress code: Cocktail, Formal

$258 | Nordstrom

Bloomchic Crew Neck Contrast Pleated Dress

Bloomchic contrast pleated winter mother-of-the-bride dress

It's no mystery why this little black dress is a best-seller. It's unique black and white design effortlessly catches the eye. Plus, it's available in a wide range of sizes and costs less than $40. Seriously, you'll want to get your hands on this one before it sells out.

Size range: M–6X | Dress code: Casual, Semi-formal

$31 | Bloomchic

Sachin & Babi Ramsey Gown

Sachin & Babi long-sleeve winter mother-of-the-bride dress

All great packages get wrapped up in a bow, and you, Mom, are no exception. This black-tie winter mother-of-the-bride dress–with a crystal-embellished bow around the waist–is a great way to do so. With long sleeves and a floor length skirt, it will keep you warm for a winter event.

Size range: 0–22W | Dress code: Formal, Black-tie

$1,095 | Sachin & Babi

Current Air Lurex Pleated Maxi Dress

Current Air pleated winter mother-of-the-bride dress

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

Size range: XS–L | Dress code: Semi-formal

$150 | Current Air

Azazie Cornelia Dress

Azazie burgundy winter mother-of-the-bride dress with jacket

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. It's the perfect pick for an outdoor wedding, where weather may be unpredictable.

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

$199 | Azazie

Tadashi Shoji Knot Front Long Sleeve Velvet Gown

Tadashi Shoji long sleeve velvet maxi winter mother-of-the-bride dress

'Tis the season. . .for velvet dresses, that is. Cut from thick velvet fabric, this mother-of-the-bride dress for winter was made to withstand the cold. For extra coverage, you could layer some tights or leggings underneath and have them go totally unseen.

Size range: XS–L | Dress code: Black-tie

$458 | Tadashi Shoji

Sachin & Babi Ines Gown

Sachin & Babi strapless mother-of-the-bride winter dress

Mom: If you were looking for a sign to treat yourself, consider this it. This mikado stretch column gown features a unique one-shoulder neckline adorned with an heirloom-inspired broach. Because it can be worn to black-tie functions year-round, we'd consider it well worth the splurge.

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

$995 | Sachin & Babi

Ann Taylor Crew Neck Short Shift Dress

Ann Taylor winter mother-of-the-bride shift dress

Have a casual wedding on your calendar? Here's a laid back look you're sure to love for the occasion. The long-sleeved mini can be paired with heels, flats or even boots, depending on your preference. Plus, it's available in both standard and petite sizing.

Size range: 00P–18 | Dress code: Casual

$159 | Ann Taylor

Kiyonna Radiant Opulence Evening Gown

Kiyonna winter mother-of-the-bride evening gown

Fashion-forward moms: You'll love wearing this evening gown throughout wedding season and beyond. Its gold metallic floral skirt makes a serious statement while its flutter sleeve bodice, made from velvet, offers a timeless touch. A gold clutch and matching heels is all you need to complete the look.

Size range: 10–28 | Dress code: Formal, Black-tie

$348 | Kiyonna