26 Winter Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses That are Elegant and Festive

Congratulations are in order! Your child is getting married, and as the mother of the bride, you hold a very special and sentimental role in the wedding party. The momentous occasion also calls for a beautiful mother-of-the-bride outfit that makes you feel your absolute best. And if your child has decided to throw a winter event, it's time 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 winter mother-of-the-bride dresses, we're sharing etiquette tips about how to appropriately dress for cooler weather. (Also, it wouldn't hurt to familiarize yourself with our detailed MOB attire guide with even more helpful advice.) Then, we've gathered some seriously stunning dress styles for you to sort through (think: sparkly gowns, lace silhouettes and tea-length numbers).

In this article:

• What Styles Work for Winter Wedding Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses?
• What Colors Should the Mother of the Bride Wear to a Winter Wedding?
• The Best Winter Wedding Dresses for the Mother of the Bride

What Styles Work for Winter Wedding Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses?

For winter weddings, your mother-of-the-bride dress should account for the climate and the couple's requested wedding dress code (as well as any input from the bride, who may want you to coordinate with the wedding party). To stay warm, look for dresses with long sleeves or mother-of-the-bride dresses with jackets. Choose fabrics like velvet, satin and silk, and consider investing in a cozy wrap or shawl to bring with you. But sleeveless, short sleeves and knee-length frocks aren't completely out of the question, either (especially if you plan to move around and dance a lot throughout the event). Remember: It's also about your personal preference, so choose a style that you feel the most comfortable in.

What Colors Should the Mother of the Bride Wear to a Winter Wedding?

You also might be wondering what colors work best for winter mother-of-the-bride attire. Although it's similar to what you might wear to fall weddings, the wintertime also calls for sparkly and fun embellishments (just remember to keep the wedding formality in mind). Check out some go-to wintry hues, below:

• 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.)

Pro tip: Avoid wearing white or off-white (think: beige, ivory and champagne) or any shades that might come across as white—unless you've received permission from the couple, of course. Now that you're prepared, keep reading for the best mother-of-the-bride dresses for winter functions.

The Best Winter Wedding Dresses for the Mother of the Bride

We've handpicked a beautiful selection of elegant winter dresses for the mother of the bride. Whether you prefer something sparky and festive or minimalist and refined, you won't be disappointed with these stylish options.

1. Oleg Cassini Off-the-Shoulder Beaded Dress with Godet Hem in Wine

This sparkly mother-of-the-bride dress for winter weddings is both modest and glamorous. The wine-colored silhouette is adorned with floral beaded embellishments, from the off-the-shoulder neckline to the flared godet skirt. It also comes in Navy and Taupe—both great choices for winter affairs.

Size range: 2-16

2. Adrianna Papell Hand-Beaded Illusion Long Boho Gown in Light Navy

Boho mamas, take note. Handsewen beadwork depicting beautiful blooms captivates this illusion gown from Adrianna Papell. We're equally obsessed with the sheer short sleeves with delicate ribbons and the ruffled details on the sweetheart neckline. All you need are minimalist accessories to balance the exquisite design.

Size range: 0-20

3. Shoshanna Celsey Velvet Column Gown in Navy Velvet

If you step foot in this chic winter mother-of-the-bride gown, get ready for loads of compliments. It's crafted from ultra-soft velvet and has a V-neckline, three-quarter sleeves and a skirt slit. Best of all, you can rent this dress starting at $45 for four days (compared to the original retail price of $495).

Size range: 0-16

4. Jenny Yoo Ryland Velvet Dress in Holly

Here's another velvet gown that'll capture everyone's attention. This long-sleeve winter mother-of-the-bride dress, available in standard and plus sizes, has a sophisticated-yet-modern silhouette, thanks to the graceful long sleeves, deep V-neckline and open back.

Size range: 0-26

5. Teri Jon Shirt Waist Taffeta Chevron Pattern Eyelet Gown in Teal

For a stylish mother-of-the-bride dress for winter black-tie attire, this eyelet gown is a fashion-forward choice. The festive teal hue complements the three-quarter sleeves, removable sash belt and allover taffeta chevron pattern. Accessorize with statement earrings and neutral-colored pumps.

Size range: 2-22

6. XSCAPE Petite Beaded-Sleeve Gown in Black Nude Silver

Effortlessly elegant and perfectly understated, check out this petite mother-of-the-bride winter dress. The highlight of this black-tie number are the embellished sleeves adorned with sparkly beads. We also have to call out the polished boat neckline and ruching on the long silhouette.

Size range: 4P-16P

7. Estelle Plus Gloria Metallic Plissé Halter Midi Dress in Black/Navy

You'll have a blast dancing in this shimmering metallic MOB dress for winter cocktail attire. From the chic halter neckline to the sleeveless, cutaway shoulders, all you need are gold or silver accessories and a cozy shawl to keep warm. (Oh, and don't forget to throw in a fabulous pair of glittering pumps!).

Size range: 2X-4X

8. Tadashi Shoji Odette Dress in Silver

We know a beautiful winter mother-of-the-bride dress when we see one. You'll get lost in all the tiny details of this vintage-inspired frock, from the floral arranged matte sequins to the exquisite lace overlay design. To top it off, it also has slight cap sleeves and a boat neckline for a subtle amount of coverage. Choose from two shades: Silver or Honey.

Size range: 0-18

9. Oleg Cassini Plus-Size Sequin Lace Capelet Jersey Sheath Dress in Wine

Here's another bedazzled number to keep on your radar. This time, it's a dark red-colored mother-of-the-bride dress for winter weddings with a detachable capelet. The sequined lace capelet adds an eye-catching component to the elegant sheath silhouette.

Size range: 14W-24W

10. Amsale Satin One-Shoulder Gown in Slate

Sleek and elegant, this minimalist one-shoulder gown for mothers of the bride is one of our favorite styles. We prefer the Slate, French Blue, Red and Emerald Green hues, but you also can't go wrong with Navy or Black for winter. Dress your outfit with dangly earrings, metallic heels and a sparkly clutch.

Size range: 0-16

11. Adrianna Papell Plus-Size Floral Burnout Velvet Long Blouson Gown in Midnight

Crafted from burnout stretch velvet fabric, this dark blue mother-of-the-bride dress is a timeless choice for winter weddings. It features the brand's blouson silhouette complete with a surplice neckline, flutter sleeves and refined pleats for additional movement. This dreamy style comes in standard and plus sizes.

Size range: 0-30

12. Phase Eight Suzie Beaded Maxi Dress in Merlot/Black

We have a feeling this plus-size winter mother-of-the-bride dress will be a hit at your next winter function. This charming number is covered in beading from the V-neckline to the floor-length skirt, while dreamy flutter sleeves make this outfit even more whimsical (if that's even possible!).

Size range: 12-22

13. Hutch Bow-Tie Maxi Dress in Navy

We're always ready for a bow-ment (yes, we've coined that term). Available in petite, plus and standard sizes, the oversized bow detail on the bodice steals the show on this maxi winter dress for the mother of the bride. (Note: This style runs small, so size up to achieve a better fit.)

Size range: 00P-26W

14. Adrianna Papell Plus-Size Printed Velvet Sheath Dress with Bell Sleeves in Purple Multi

Knee-length dresses aren't out of the picture for winter weddings, especially if you're attending a semi-formal or cocktail party. This printed velvet mother-of-the-bride winter dress has a dreamy multicolored floral pattern, as well as a bateau neckline and three-quarter sleeves with flared cuffs.

Size range: 0-30

15. Adam Lippes Collective Point Desprit Dress in Black

Renting is a great way to secure a designer gown at a great rate. One option is this tea-length mother-of-the-bride dress for winter. Trendy details include the illusion neckline, sheer puffed sleeves and sparkly embellishments. Bonus: First-time RTR customers, use the code KNOTRENTAL to redeem $25 off your first purchase of $75 or more.

Size range: 0-16

16. ELOQUII Satin Maxi Dress in Periwinkle

You can't go wrong with a versatile satin wrap dress for mother-of-the-bride winter attire. The periwinkle hue reminds us of the color of falling snow, but you can't go wrong with Black for the season. And with long sleeves and a maxi-length skirt, you'll stay warm and comfortable throughout the entirety of the party.

Size range: 14-28

17. Ieena for Mac Duggal Tie Back Floral Gown in Black

All we can say about this Mac Duggal rental gown is "wow!" The whimsical winter mother-of-the-bride dress boasts voluminous puff sleeves, sleek back cutouts and a tiered maxi skirt (what's not to love?). And we can't forget about the allover dark and moody botanical print and the stylish lace-up back.

Size range: 0P-16L

18. Studio 8 Bonnie Sparkle Jacquard Dress in Black Multi

Perfect for cocktail functions, get ready to shine in the sparkly jacquard fabric of this mother-of-the-bride dress for winter weddings. With a fit-and-flare silhouette, blouson sleeves and a cutout twist front on the neckline, it's a foolproof option for fashion-forward moms.

Size range: 10-20

19. ELOQUII Knot Front Pleated Skirt Dress in Cabernet

The Cabernet red shade on this winter mother-of-the-bride dress is a fitting pick for the season (especially if you're attending a holiday function). It's made from a stretch-knit matte jersey fabric that's the utmost cozy, while the refined long sleeves and front twist detail elevate the semi-formal look.

Size range: 14-32

20. Adrianna Papell Hand-Beaded Illusion Long Gown in Bordeaux

The intricate handbeaded details and long blouson sleeves define this Adrianna Papell staple. Plus, the V-neckline and a long skirt also make it a perfect choice for formal and upscale functions. It's easily one of the best winter mother-of-the-bride dresses on our list.

Size range: 0-20

21. Rickie Freeman for Teri Jon Asymmetric Portrait-Neck Side-Ruffle Gown in Merlot

While on the pricier side, if you're looking to splurge on your winter MOB dress, consider this ruffled gown in the dreamiest Merlot hue. The asymmetrical neckline and trumpet skirt command attention, but the ruffle details and rich red pattern make it winter-ready.

Size range: 2-18

22. Ralph Lauren Leiara Gown in Black and Gold Metallic

For just $30, you can rent this glittering Ralph Lauren gown with a black and gold metallic fabric. And with every rental through Rent the Runway, you'll receive a free backup size and complimentary dry cleaning (yes, it's that simple.). It comes in sizes 0 to 18, with standard, petite and long options to choose from.

Size range: 0P-18L

23. BHLDN Dylan Satin Charmeuse Dress in Dark Red

ICYMI, one-shoulder necklines are all the rage this year. Hop on the trend with this stunning satin charmeuse gown for mothers of the bride. It comes in standard and plus sizes, as well as an array of wintery hues, including Dark Red, Blue and Black. Style your standout outfit with bold earrings and strappy heels.

Size range: 0-26W

24. L I V D Evangeline Rhinestone Sleeve Dress in Black

You won't believe the price tag on this black winter mother-of-the-bride dress with statement sleeves. At just under $70, it's a stylish and affordable style that looks good and won't break the bank. Don't want to wear Black? It also comes in Coral Red and Royal Blue.

Size range: 1X-3X

25. Ralph Lauren Women's Jersey Surplice Cocktail Dress in Green

This winter mother-of-the-bride dress, with sophisticated long sleeves, a surplice neckline and a rhinestone-embellished detail at the waist, is a great pick for cocktail attire. Wear sparkling silver jewelry to match the rhinestone waist accent.

Size range: 2-16

Alex Evenings Sequin Mock Two-Piece Gown with Jacket in Navy

To round out our picks, we've saved one of the best styles for last. One way to stay warm for your upcoming cold-weather function is to look for winter mother-of-the-bride dresses with jackets. This two-piece design consists of a sequin-embellished jacket paired with a maxi gown with a sparkly bodice and a flowy chiffon skirt. Most importantly, you can take the jacket off at the reception to reveal the sleeveless silhouette.

Size range: 8-18