22 Super Chic Mother of the Bride Dresses with Sleeves (2024)

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Jessica Booth

22 Super Chic Mother of the Bride Dresses with Sleeves (1)

Jessica Booth

Jessica Booth is a journalist with over 10 years of experience and a freelance writer whose work has appeared on sites such as Bustle, Insider, and Refinery29.

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Updated on 09/04/23 04:10AM

22 Super Chic Mother of the Bride Dresses with Sleeves (2)

What's even better than a mother of the bride dress with pockets? A mother of the bride dress with sleeves. In general, finding an elegant evening gown or co*cktail dress that covers your arms is no easy feat. Most dresses, especially more elegant options, tend to be sleeveless or strapless, but if you're not comfortable with showing your arms (or you simply want something that offers a bit more warmth), then you may have to search a little harder to find exactly what you desire. Fortunately for moms who are currently shopping for a dress for the big event, mother of the bride or groom dresses with sleeves have become more popular and accessible.

Ready to start your search? We've put together a selection of the best mother of the bride or groom dresses with sleeves that will stand out in the best way possible. When compiling our list, we looked for styles that offer wide size and color ranges, high quality materials, and various price points to suit your needs.

It's hard to beat the sophistication and elegance of a good column gown. This one comes in luxe satin, in several different color options. The slight off-the-shoulder neckline works perfectly with the blousy sleeves.

Size: 0-24 | Length: Floor-length | Colors: Neutral, navy, dark green

A dress with a jacket is a great option when you want more coverage with the freedom to take it off. The combination of a satin skirt and sequined bodice tastefully combines two opulent fabrics. Underneath the jacket you'll find a square neck tank top that is just as elegant.

Size: 6-18 | Length: Floor-length | Colors: Midnight, taupe, eggplant

There are many gorgeous plus-size mother-of-the bride dresses that fit and flatter your curves, including this gown by Oleg Cassini. This shimmering capelet offers plenty of coverage for your upper half and is covered in a glittering floral design. Another great feature? The sheath dress underneath has an alluring slit in the front.

Size: 14-24 | Length: Floor-length | Colors: Champagne, wine

A ballet neckline, elbow-length sleeves, lace design, and gauzy tulle make this dress extra feminine and delicate. It comes in several different colors and would work for every season aside from summer.

Size: 4-20 | Length: Floor-length | Colors: 4

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For a softer and more romantic look, opt for a chiffon gown like this AW Bridal number. Coming in 42 colors and sizes up to 30, it's easy to find the right shade and size for you. Plus you can enter your measurements for a custom fit, for free.

Size: 0-30 | Length: Floor-length | Colors: 42

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This form-fitting dark navy lace gown is a classic look that will never go out of style. The metallic foil lace and full-length trumpet skirt give it a very dressed-up feel. Plus, you can take off the shrug if you want to change up your look for the reception.

Size: 2-24 | Length: Floor-length | Colors: Midnight

A dress with sleeves isn't confined to only long sleeves. This gown features flutter short sleeves that offer just enough coverage for any mother of the bride or groom. In several different colors and done in a lovely velvet, this is ideal for a fall wedding.

Size: 0-26 | Length: Floor-length | Colors: 4

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Covered in glittering sequins and featuring scalloped cape sleeves, this Mac Duggal gown has a vintage flair to it. The sequins and beading make it so unique and give it a lot of beautiful detail.

Size: 2-20 | Length: Floor-length | Colors: Rose, Slate Blue

For something simple and budget-friendly, opt for this wrap-style maxi dress by Baltic Born. It's beautiful and more minimalist, and it comes in a huge selection of colors, so you're bound to find something that works for you.

Size: XS - 4XL | Length: Floor-length | Colors: 21

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This lovely metallic dress would look perfect for a fall or winter wedding. Dolman sleeves and gathering at the waist provide a nice design detail to this otherwise minimalist ensemble.

Size: 14-24 | Length: Floor-length | Colors: Burgundy

An illusion neckline and sleeves keeps you covered while also remaining light. Add in gorgeous floral beading and godet hemline full of movement, and you'll feel ultra glamorous.

Size: 2-16 | Length: Floor-length | Colors: Taupe

Heading to a wedding around the holidays? Sequins are always fitting for the season. This glittering gown comes in five rich shades and features an A-line skirt and boat neck. We love how it comes in a wide size range, and you can customize the size for free.

Size: 0-30 | Length: Floor-length | Colors: 5

Made of light chiffon, this gown has a romantic and feminine bohemian feel to it. The pinks and oranges in the floral design make this an ideal dress for a spring or early summer wedding.

Size: 2-24 | Length: Floor-length | Colors: Rose

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Show just the right amount of skin with this satin dress. A plunging neckline adds some intrigue while flutter sleeves and an A-line skirt keeps it classy. Coming in 11 different shades ranging from desert rose to emerald green, this dress suits any season and venue.

Size: 0-26 | Length: Floor-length | Colors: 11

he pleated bodice, sumptuous tiered skirt, soft colors, and blousy sheer sleeves make this dress feel so romantic and whimsical. It's also surprisingly versatile and can work with many dress codes.

Size: 2-18 | Length: Floor-length | Colors: Green, Mocha

The shawl collar has a distinct mother of the bride look to it, but in this gown by Reem Acra, it appears more elegant than usual. A wrap effect and rippling bow allows this look to flatter almost all body types.

Size: XS-XXL | Length: Floor-length | Colors: Pink, Navy

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The sheer sleeves of this floor-length dress from JJ’s House give it an air of elegance and sophistication. It’s made of soft chiffon and has a flowing A-line skirt, a simple V-neckline, and a scoop back. The dress comes in an inclusive size range and 35 colors, or you can have one custom-made in the color of your choice.

Size: XS-XL | Length: Knee | Colors: Navy

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Between the turquoise color, the metallic sheen, and the cape effect, this gown has such a unique look to it and will be something no one will soon forget. It also has a more modern and trendy feel for fashion-forward mothers of the bride and groom.

Size: 2-18 | Length: Floor-length | Colors: Turquoise

Want to really make a statement? Opt for this fierce design that features a vibrant shade of green, dramatic sleeves, and pleating. Just be sure the bride is okay with so many eyes being on this gown.

Size: 0-10 | Length: Floor-length | Colors: Green

Made of a high-shine yarn, this jersey gown has an alluring shimmer to it that is hard to copy. We love the long sleeves, with the off-the-shoulder neckline, for a chic look.

Size: 00-20 | Length: Floor-length | Colors: Olive

The sheer sleeves of this floor-length dress from JJ’s House give it an air of elegance and sophistication. It’s made of soft chiffon and has a flowing A-line skirt, a simple V-neckline, and a scoop back. The dress comes in an inclusive size range and 35 colors, or you can have one custom-made in the color of your choice.

Size: 0-16, 16-26 (plus), custom sizing available | Length: Floor-length | Colors: 35

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If you prefer short sleeves and a shorter hemline—for an afternoon or garden wedding—this beautiful sheath column dress may be the one you’ve been searching for. The dress has short, cap-style sleeves and lands right at the knee. It comes in 17 colors, has a classic V-neck and V-back style, an embellished waistband, and a slimming, fitted design.

Size: 0-30 | Length: Knee-length | Colors: 17

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What to Look for in a Mother of the Bride or Groom Dress With Sleeves

Style

  • Style

The perfect mother of the bride or groom dress with sleeves all comes down to your personal style and preferences. If you want something on the conservative side that provides optimal coverage, look for long sleeves, capelets, or matching jackets, like Alex Evenings Sequin Jacket Dress. If you want to go for something more modern and trendy, look for details like slits, lower necklines, structural sleeves, or illusion material, like Oleg Cassini Beaded Illusion Dress.

  • Color

Remember to look for a shade that goes well with the rest of the colors for the wedding and the wedding party and to check with the couple if there are any outfit choices you should stay away from. Since the bride often wears white, the mother of the bride usually does not wear white or ivory.

You can also consider the season in which the wedding will take place. Rich jewel tones such as deep purples, greens, and blues are ideal for fall or winter weddings, while muted tones and pastels are better suited for spring and summer.

  • Fabric

Just like different shades match different seasons, so do fabrics. If it's a fall or winter wedding, consider sequined or velvet designs like Jenny Yoo Ellis Flutter-Sleeve Open-Back Velvet Gown. For weddings taking places in warmer climates, you want to stay cool, especially if you are wearing sleeves. Chiffon looks and feels light enough for a spring or summer wedding. We love AW Bridal Adina Dress that comes in 42 different shades of chiffon.

FAQ

  • Should the mother of the bride or groom match the bridal party?

    The mother of the bride or groom should complement the rest of the wedding party, but her look can also stand out a bit and not be the same color. She should opt for a different hue (for example, if the bridesmaids are wearing light blue, the mother of the bride could wear navy), or she can wear a pattern with matching elements to the bridesmaid dresses.

    If possible, the bride and groom should have the final say in color selection for the mother of the bride or groom's dresses.

  • Should the mother of the bride or groom wear a long dress?

    Most of the time, you'll find that mother-of-the-bride or groom's dress options are floor-length formal gowns. However, there are no steadfast rules, depending on the dress code. If you want to wear something shorter, go ahead. Shorter dresses are especially popular for more casual weddings, but if the event is white-tie, black-tie, or formal, then a long dress should be worn.

    As with color selection, you’ll want to check with the bride and groom to find out if they have a preference regarding the length of the dress or if they want the mother of the bride and groom to wear dresses of the same length.

  • How much are mother of the bride or groom dresses with sleeves?

    The price of any mother of the bride dress will vary widely. It depends on the designer, the materials used, and the length of the dress. If you choose something formal from a popular designer, the price could be thousands of dollars. Of course, it's not necessary to spend that much and there are plenty of options for looks that cost between $100-$500, with budget-friendly choices under $100 too, like the Baltic Born Velvet Wrap Dress.

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writerJessica Boothis a freelance writer and formerly served as an editor for seven years. Her work has been featured in Bustle, Romper, Insider, Forbes, Redbook, and Refinery29.

The 18 Best Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses for Every Type of Wedding

22 Super Chic Mother of the Bride Dresses with Sleeves (2024)

FAQs

Should mother of the bride wear sleeves? ›

We all know that mother of the bride dresses long sleeves are a classic (just look at the beautiful above dress), just look at what Elizabeth Swanson from Martha Stuart Weddings has to say about the matter: 'No matter where your daughter or son's wedding is taking place, long-sleeve dresses are always appropriate; they ...

Who pays for mother of the bride outfit? ›

Mother of the Bride & Groom

Both the mother of the bride and the mother of the groom are expected to pay for their own wedding attire. Typically, these gowns do not need to match the bridesmaid dresses, however, some brides prefer for the gowns to coordinate in some way.

What does a mother wear to her daughter's wedding? ›

(Psst: The same goes for grandmother-of-the-bride dresses, too.) Moms are encouraged to wear an outfit that they love (with the bride's approval, of course). Sleek evening gowns, trendy midi dresses, dressy jumpsuits and chic MOB pantsuits are all excellent options.

What color do mother of the brides wear? ›

Typically the Mother of the Bride's dress should complement the bridal party's color palette. Not necessarily match with the bridesmaids, but choose a color in the color family. The most popular color for the mother of the bride to wear is navy or a royal blue, followed by blush or a shade of nude.

What is the best length for the mother of the bride dress? ›

The length of the gown or dress is a personal choice, even for formal weddings. Long dresses and skirts are fine for any wedding from noon on. The mothers do not have to wear dresses of equal length, although many do, feeling that it creates a more harmonious look, especially in wedding photos.

Should mother of the bride wear hair up or down? ›

Updos are a mother-of-the-bride hairstyle favorite for a reason: they're timeless, they frame your face and they work with a wide variety of dress styles. Whether it's a beautiful braided bun, an elegant chignon or an updo with a few wispy tendrils, you really can't go wrong.

What should the mother of the bride not do? ›

Mother of The Bride: How to Avoid Upstaging or Upsetting the...
  • Consult with The Bride. ...
  • Avoid Being Too Casual. ...
  • Don't Make the Wedding About You. ...
  • Don't Be Pushy. ...
  • Don't Tell Her Who Should Be Her Bridesmaids. ...
  • Don't Compare Her Wedding to Others. ...
  • Don't Be Too Critical. ...
  • Don't Make Empty Offers.

Who walks the mother of the bride? ›

The mother of the bride is traditionally escorted by her son if she has one. Otherwise, any close male relative, the best man, or a groomsman walks with the mother of the bride during the procession.

Does the mother of the bride give the bride a gift? ›

What should she gift her daughter? The mother of the bride has a wide range of options, depending on what she thinks her daughter will appreciate the most. It could be a customized hanger for her wedding dress or jewelry to wear to the ceremony, for example.

How to look good as mother of the bride? ›

While dressing in too revealing a style isn't advisable for any guest, you can dress to emphasise your assets - a sleeveless dress to show toned arms, belts to highlight your waist or a shorter length for great legs. Keep styling simple and avoid too much embellishment, which can look fussy in photos.

What jewelry should the mother of the bride wear? ›

Don't be tempted to try out a new style

Instead, opting for subtler pieces you can incorporate into your everyday looks will be great. This could include picking simple, dainty pieces that include little gemstone details, as opposed to chunky, oversized jewellery.

Can mother of bride and mother of groom wear the same color dress? ›

Color: Who Coordinates with Whom? Traditionally, the mother of the bride has been the first to choose her dress. The color of the mother of the groom's dress should complement, but not match it.

What is trending for mother of the bride dresses? ›

Pastel tones gaining popularity for moms include soft hues such as pastel pink, peach, lavender, and green,” explains Plackowski. “These gentle and elegant colors can contribute to a sophisticated and timeless look, aligning with the contemporary trends for mothers of the bride this year.”

Do mothers of the bride still wear corsages? ›

The bride's mother, groom's mother, all the grandmothers, and any female readers during your ceremony traditionally wear a corsage on their wrist, or a pinned corsage to their clothing. If you have a female officiant that you really connect with, you could even consider giving them a corsage as well.

Is it OK for the mother of the bride to wear the same color as the bridesmaids? ›

A: The Mother of the Bride is special. She needs to stand out a bit from the bridesmaids, so her dress should complement rather than match the bridesmaid's dresses. For example, the MOB could wear a dress in a similar color to the bridesmaids but in a deeper shade.

Can the mother of the bride wear sleeveless? ›

Mother of the bride dresses with no sleeves

We know that the phrase 'no sleeves' nowadays can mean so many things, from off the shoulder, to spaghetti straps, to completely strapless. There are many variations of style available to you mothers of the bride who want to flash some shoulder.

What is the dress code for the mother of the bride? ›

While almost anything goes for mother-of-the-bride attire—so long as the bride approves—it is important to follow certain cues dictated by the venue. For example, it's probably best to wear a strapless dress to a beach ceremony rather than a church wedding.

What is proper etiquette for a mother of bride dress? ›

While some brides do prefer that their moms wear a color in the same palette as the bridal party, or match it exactly, there's no set rule that all the dresses must coordinate—it just shouldn't clash so it stands out in photos.

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