Selecting the perfect mother-of-the-bride (or groom!) dress takes some serious thought and planning. Your role in the wedding is extremely important, which means finding a gown that makes you feel confident should be a top priority. While there are plenty of different routes you can go, many moms prefer to stick with streamlined silhouettes and classically elegant styles. That's why modest mother-of-the-bride dresses are so popular, as they fit most formalities and are understated enough to help you avoid a fashion faux pas.
Dresses defined as "modest" are looks that are generally more covered with higher necklines, longer hems, and some sort of sleeves. You should avoid figure-hugging silhouettes and over-the-top embellishments in favor of relaxed fits and timeless cuts. Modest gowns are a wonderful option for mothers (and grandmothers) since they can take the guesswork out of what is/isn't appropriate. Plus, these styles lean into classic formalwear features, which many moms feel comfortable wearing for such an important day.
If you want an understated-yet-stunning day-of look, you've come to the right place. Sourced from the most reputable sellers with rave reviews, read on for the best modest mother-of-the-bride dresses that'll have you feeling confident and captivating for your child's special celebration.
Formal Favorite
Oleg Cassini Three-Quarter Sleeve Beaded Lace Ball Gown
Most people don't get many chances to wear a ball gown, but if your child is having a formal wedding, this is an ideal time to sport the glamorous silhouette. Coming in a deep navy hue, the voluminous skirt and beaded lace bodice on this dress give an undeniable air of elegance.
Price at time of publish: $116
Size: 2-24W | Materials: Nylon, lace | Length: Floor-length
For a Daytime Wedding
Amsale Mikado A-Line Dress
Cocktail and midi dresses are customary options for daytime weddings, but we love how this bias-cut, A-line design feels elevated given the waist detail and rich mikado fabric. Select the style in one of 10+ colors, and pair it with some special heels and dainty accessories to really let the sleek number shine.
Price at time of publish: $695
Size: 00-28 | Materials: Mikado | Length: Midi-length
Most Unique
Basix Beaded Puff-Sleeve A-Line Gown
Black dresses are perfect for mothers of the bride or groom since they give the essence of timeless sophistication. We love how this fluttery design from Basix takes a classic look and amplifies it with unique details like puff sleeves, a sweetheart illusion neckline, and a beaded butterfly design on the bodice.
Price at time of publish: $995
Size: 0-16 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor-length
For a Summer Wedding
Sachin & Babi Ivy Dress
Dainty floral accents and whimsical ruffles accent this breezy blue gown from Sachin & Babi. While the V-neckline and plunge-back might feel a little daring, you'll stay cool in the seasonal heat and can easily pair the look with a summer shawl.
Price at time of publish: $325
Size: 0-16 | Materials: Viscose | Length: Floor-length
Understated Favorite
Azazie Dorothea Mother-of-the-Bride Dress
Whether you don this gown in midi or floor length, this sweet style from Azazie is lovely for moms who want an understated gown that's fashion-forward but not flashy. The bodice draping and empire waistline flatter, while the lace sleeves add a sweet and feminine touch.
Price at time of publish: $179
Size: 0-30, custom sizing | Materials: Chiffon, lace | Length: Midi-length
Boldest Hue
Amsale Floral Mikado Tea-Length Dress
Modest doesn't have to mean muted colors only! In fact, if the to-be-weds agree, a bright color is a wonderful way to showcase your joy for the union. This tea-length gown from Amsale comes in the most magnificent marigold Italian mikado material and features hand-beaded appliques that define the festive floral print.
Price at time of publish: $3,995
Size: 00-28 | Materials: Mikado | Length: Midi-length
Best Velvet
Revelry Reese Dress
Many velvet gowns are form-fitting, but Revelry's Reese dress offers a not-often-seen relaxed fit that features a tie-waist and elbow-length flutter sleeves. Select the style in one of 20+ different color options, and pair it with a dainty necklace to complement the tasteful V-neckline.
Price at time of publish: $189
Size: XS-6XL | Materials: Velvet | Length: Maxi
Favorite Cape
Oleg Cassini Plus Size Cape Gown with Sparkle Embellishment
Caped dresses are great for providing coverage and elevating your look, which is why many moms gravitate to this Oleg Cassini sheath gown. The high-neck design boasts a flowy floor-length skirt and an attached, sparkle-adorned cape that offers plenty of shine while still feeling refined.
Price at time of publish: $48
Size: 2-24W | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor-length
Best Sequin Option
Revelry Gwen Sequin Dress
If you love the idea of sequins but don't want to feel ostentatious, Revelry's Gwen dress is likely what you've been envisioning. While keeping you covered with flutter sleeves and a subtle V-neckline, the design stays youthful with a twist front detail and nipped waist. Order it in one of the matte hues for a softer sparkle.
Price at time of publish: $189
Size: 0-32 | Materials: Sequin | Length: Floor-length
Most Sophisticated
Tadashi Shoji Knotted Crepe Gown
Whether you select this style in black or blue, Tadashi Shoji has perfected the sophisticated mother-of-the-bride gown with this elegant floor-length number. A draped short sleeve in white pulls the eye up while the streamlined silhouette subtly hugs without clinging.
Price at time of publish: $408
Size: XS-XL | Materials: Crepe | Length: Floor-length
For an Evening Wedding
Amsale Flutter Sleeve Satin Gown
While this satin Amsale gown also comes in black and navy, we especially love the design in the blue-grey petrol hue. From the draped waist to the hand-beaded illusion neckline and flutter sleeves, this is one style that feels both effortlessly sophisticated and supremely special.
Price at time of publish: $1,295
Size: 00-28 | Materials: Satin | Length: Floor-length
For a Winter Wedding
Azazie Greta Mother-of-the-Bride Dress
Winter weddings call for holiday hues, long sleeves, and sparkles, all found in the exquisite Greta gown from Azazie. The scoop neckline and sheer sleeves keep you covered, while the mermaid silhouette and dark green shade feel seasonal as can be. Pair the dress with silver accessories to match the shoulder and waist detailing.
Price at time of publish: $199
Size: 0-30 | Materials: Mesh | Length: Floor-length
Most Glamorous
Adrianna Papell Scoop Back Sequin Gown
Covered in glittering sequins, this dramatic dress seamlessly blends modest and eye-catching details to create a gown that's both cultivated and striking. The cap sleeves and scoop neckline nod to timelessness, while the partial train and lower back ensure you still give off a glamorous, youthful vibe.
Price at time of publish: $280
Size: 0-26 | Materials: Sequin, polyester | Length: Floor-length
For a Beach Wedding
Azazie Pascual Mother-of-the-Bride Dress
High-low dresses are ideal for beach celebrations because they keep you from feeling weighed down by water or sand, without losing their air of formality. Azazie's Pascual dress does just that and then some with its gathered bodice, epaulet beading details, empire waistline, and ultra-soft chiffon fabric.
Price at time of publish: $199
Size: 0-30, custom sizing | Materials: Chiffon | Length: High-low
Favorite Floral Print
Staud High-Neck Tiered Organza Gown
Whether it's a garden event or a springtime affair, floral prints are a wedding favorite, but finding a style that's still modest isn't always easy. This organza gown from Staud, however, manages to mix a sundress feel with a more refined silhouette thanks to the high neckline, covered back, and all-over bloom detailing.
Price at time of publish: $370
Size: XS-L | Materials: Organza | Length: Floor-length
Best One-Shoulder
Sachin & Babi Chelsea One-Shoulder Georgette Bias Gown
Choose a one-shoulder wedding dress with an asymmetrical cut for a timeless look. This Sachin & Babi dress is fit for a queen thanks to the silk faille fabric, beaded belt, and bow shoulder detail. A champagne-colored dress is a very stylish choice for attending your daughter's wedding.
Price at time of publish: $285
Size: 0-14 | Length: Floor length | Material: Polyester
Best for Fall Wedding
Rickie Freeman for Teri Jon Cap-Sleeve Embroidered Tulle A-Line Gown
With its dark color and light blue flower accents, this Rickie Freeman dress is perfect for a fall wedding. Stylish and modest, this tulle gown features bead and sequin embroidery, 3D floral appliqué, and rhinestone embellishments along the neckline. Finish off the ensemble with a pair of hot pink satin strip pumps.
Price at time of publish: $1,170
Size: 2-18 | Length: Floor length | Material: Polyester
Best With Jacket
Alex Evenings Sequin Lace & Satin Gown with Jacket
This jacket dress by Alex Evenings is a great option for the mother of the bride or groom because of its timeless and simple design. The combination of the sophisticated navy color and the eye-catching scalloped sequin detail makes this gown an excellent choice for winter or fall weddings. When it's time to hit the dance floor, just take off the jacket, but feel free to wear it throughout the formal reception.
Price at time of publish: $229
Size: 6-18 | Length: Floor length | Material: Polyester, nylon, spandex
For a Spring Wedding
Mac Duggal Floral Ruffle-Sleeve Gown
This floral print gown by Mac Duggal is the epitome of the light, airy, and couture style that we associate with mother-of-the-bride attire in the spring. The sweet, nurturing vibes of the V-neck bodice, pink zinnia flowers, and ruffle detail along the long sleeves will help your daughter feel confident and at ease on her wedding day. Plus, you’ll look fabulous and feel like a goddess.
Price at time of publish: $229
Size: 6-18 | Length: Floor length | Material: Polyester, nylon, spandex
Most Whimsical
Mac Duggal Embellished Tulle Gown
This gown is the stuff of fairytales, and it will help you channel the magic you felt on the day your daughter was born and feel it again on her wedding day. The divine embellishment on the cinnamon hue and glamorous sequin details resemble the stars, making it an ideal choice for any mom who is ready to witness her daughter say, "I do."
Price at time of publish: $798
Size: 6-18 | Length: Floor length | Material: Polyester, nylon, spandex
For a Cocktail Wedding
Oleg Cassini Allover Beaded Cap Sleeve Sheath Dress
Oleg Cassini nailed it with this self-tie cocktail length dress that is modern, modest, and sophisticated. A sheath dress is a versatile option for any wedding event, from the rehearsal dinner to the reception and beyond. The short sheath cut and illusion cap sleeves are exquisitely detailed with countless swirls, lines, and floral patterns.
Price at time of publish: $161 (Originally $230)
Size: 2-14 | Length: Above the knee-length | Material: Polyester, nylon, spandex
Best Cape Design
Michael Costello Collection Delilah Pleated Cape-Sleeve Gown
The mother of the bride, who is known for being modest but who wants to try something new with her look, would look beautiful in this Delilah gown by Michael Costellon. Everyone at the wedding will recognize the bride's mother at first glance thanks to the stunning pleated A-line silhouette, strong shoulders, and flowing split cape sleeves.
Price at time of publish: $989
Size: 2-16 | Length: Floor length | Material: Polyester
What to Look for in a Modest Mother-of-the-Bride Dress
Consider the Type of Wedding
As with any special occasion outfit, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when selecting a modest mother-of-the-bride dress. First, make sure you have a clear understanding of the event's dress code. While the wedding website or invitation should state that, chatting with the to-be-weds is your best bet to ensure you're dressed appropriately. Generally, long gowns are seen at formal and black-tie events, while cocktail dresses work well for less formal celebrations.
Color Palette
As far as colors go, this is another situation where it's important to get on the same page as the couple, as they may have a specific hue they'd like you to wear. If not, coordinating with the wedding party or leaning into the wedding color palette is a good idea, so you don't wear a shade that clashes in photos or feels too bright.
Seasonality
Lastly, consider the season when looking for a mother-of-the-bride dress, especially if you want a modest look. Since these styles are generally more buttoned up, you want to ensure you avoid overheating at warmer celebrations. Cap sleeves are popular for all wedding seasons (you can easily add or remove a jacket depending on the temperature), but if the event is taking place in a cooler location, long sleeves might give you the style and coverage you crave.
Why Trust Brides
Contributing expert writer Rachel Varina is a full-time freelancer with over 10 years of editorial experience and seven years of experience in the wedding industry. Her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Elite Daily, Betches, Zola, and more.