What colors are popular for fall mother-of-the-bride or groom dresses?

Most people gravitate toward moody, harvest, and jewel tones for fall weddings. Think deep purples and greens, rich burgundies and blues, metallic like gold, and classic black. That said, as long as you adhere to the dress code and steer clear of white or ultra vibrant shades (unless otherwise requested from the couple of honor), wear a hue you love.

Should I wear long sleeves to a fall wedding?

It's a good idea to keep the ceremony/reception space in mind, as well as the location and temperature when selecting your look. For outdoor events in colder climates, longer sleeves could make you feel more comfortable. Regardless, bring a jacket or shrug since many places still get chilly as the sun sets during the autumn months. Even better, select a gown that comes with a jacket like AW Bridal Babette Dress .

What type of dress should I wear to a fall wedding?

Typically fall wedding styles include draped designs, vintage-inspired lace, and pops of shine that nod toward the decadence of the season. That said, taking cues from the venue's decor, colors, and theme can help you narrow in on a dress that feels appropriate and intentional.

The 15 Best Fall Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses of 2023

We don't need to tell you that figuring out what to wear to your son or daughter's wedding is a big—and sometimes difficult—decision. As the mother-of-the-bride or groom, selecting a dress that stands out without being too flashy, fits the theme, adheres to the formality, takes the venue into consideration, and shows off your style can seem tricky. The good news is, if the "I dos" are taking place in autumn, there are tons of fall mother of the bride or groom dresses to choose from, each more beautiful than the last.

Dress for fall weddings can be tricky, since unpredictable weather can leave you too cold or too hot. That's why we researched the best mother-of-the-bride dresses in various styles and fall hues to suit every autumnal wedding.

Read on for the best fall mother-of-the-bride dresses.

Strapless Corset Gown with Tulle Trumpet Skirt

Courtesy of David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

The most formal affairs call for the fanciest frocks, like this dreamy corset gown from Galina Signature. The form-fitting trumpet gown flows into a soft tulle skirt while the bodice boasts lace and sequin accents. Make sure to bring a matching shawl or jacket to throw over the strapless neckline in case the temps turn cold.

Size: 2–24 | Materials: Tulle, nylon, polyester | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Revelry

View On Shoprevelry.com

Get that sequin sparkle while still feeling supported and sophisticated with Revelry's Gwen gown. Featuring flutter sleeves, a V-neckline, and a twist front detail, this design comes in 13 colors and shines without feeling too flashy.

Size: 0–36 | Materials: Sequin | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Amsale

View On Amsale.com

Satin is such a sleek fall wedding choice, and it's made even more covetable in this column design from Amsale. The asymmetrical ruffle sleeve pulls the eyes up, while the delicate draping flatters the figure without feeling too tight. Select the style in the copper color to really play up the harvest theme.

Size: 00–28 | Materials: Satin | Length: Floor

Long Sleeve Pleated Satin High Neck Gown

Courtesy of Mac Duggal.

View On Nordstrom $498 View On Lordandtaylor.com View On Saks Fifth Avenue $498

The sweeping accordion pleats on this glossy satin gown create playful movement as you walk or dance. Just the thing for an indoor evening affair, it flaunts a high neckline, voluminous sleeves, and a floor-length skirt with a subtle side slit.

Size: 0–14 | Materials: Satin | Length: Floor

AW Bridal

View On Awbridal.com

On its own, this sleek chiffon gown from AW Bridal is captivating, but when you add the matching flowy jacket (which is included), the look becomes something truly special. Bonus: The design comes in wine, navy, and Champagne, with each color as spellbinding as the last.

Size: 0–30 | Materials: Chiffon | Length: Floor

Off-the-Shoulder Embroidered Sparkle A-Line Dress

Courtesy of David's Bridal.

View On David's Bridal

This gorgeous gown by Oleg Cassini features a romantic off-the-shoulder neckline and a pared-down A-line skirt with pockets at the hips. The intricate embroidery adds three-dimensional texture and a touch of glitz to the deep blue, gold, or blush-colored fabric.

Size: 2–14 | Materials: Nylon | Length: Floor

View On Adriannapapell.com

It doesn't get better than this magnificent moody gown from Adrianna Papell for fall festivities. Coming in four different colors, we especially love how the moonscape hue makes the floral pattern pop against the streamlined purple silhouette.

Size: 0-26 | Materials: Polyester, beading | Length: Floor-length

Courtesy of Nordstrom.

View On Nordstrom $498 View On Saks Fifth Avenue $498 View On Lordandtaylor.com

Is the wedding a formal affair held at an indoor venue? If so, you might consider a long-sleeve dress. We adore this one from Mac Duggal, with its wrap-style top, modest V-neckline, slightly puffed shoulders, and figure-flattering trumpet skirt.

Size: 2–18 | Materials: Polyester | Length: Floor

WOOSEA Sleeveless Long Dress in Burgundy

Amazon

View On Amazon $60

This gown has a deep V neckline, a slit at the hip for ease of movement, and lovely draping at the bust and waist. The polyester and spandex fabric blend gives it a pleasant stretch for maximum ease of movement as you dance the night away. The elegance of the dress will take all of the wedding guests' breath away, with over nine colors to choose from.

Size: S-XL | Materials: Polyester, spandex, stretch | Length: Floor-length

Courtesy of Bloomingdale's

View On Bloomingdales $550

Wearing this dazzling, off-the-shoulder metallic dress, you will enter the room like a ray of sunshine. The shimmer comes from the fabric itself rather than from any beaded embellishments, making this a low-maintenance, lightweight option. Complete your stunning ensemble with an elegant updo, long earrings, and a choker.

Size: 2–18 | Materials: Polyester, metallic | Length: Floor

AW Bridal

View On Awbridal.com $100

Luxurious, soft, and sophisticated, it's easy to see why velvet is a favorite fall wedding material. This gown—which comes in six colors—elevates the fabric further with a sparkly asymmetrical neckline and figure-flattering side gatherings.

Size: 0-30, custom | Materials: Velvet | Length: Floor-length

Courtesy of Azazie

View On Azazie.com

With 22 color options and two ways to wear the look, this traditional set from Azazie is quickly becoming a wedding go-to. The lace and chiffon dress is a vision all on its own, which can quickly be transformed by donning—or removing—the matching lace jacket.

Size: 0–30, custom | Materials: Chiffon, lace | Length: Floor

JJ's House

View On Jjshouse.com

Whether indoors or outside, this stunning chiffon and lace number is a stellar choice for a fall wedding. It features a flowing asymmetrical skirt and a flattering illusion bodice with three-quarter-length sleeves. It's available in upwards of 35 colors, but we suggest deeper hues, like plum, cabernet, or forest green.

Size: 0–26 | Materials: Chiffon, lace | Length: Ankle with asymmetrical hem

Courtesy of Azazie

View On Azazie.com

As one of Azazie's most popular mother-of-the-bride dresses, it's pretty clear why reviewers love this design. The flattering draped bodice, A-line silhouette, and open lantern sleeves work together to create a look worthy of your VIP wedding status. We especially love the rich butterscotch hue for seasonally-themed fall weddings.

Size: 0–30, custom | Materials: Chiffon | Length: Floor

Courtesy of Azazie

View On Azazie.com

It wouldn't be a fall wedding without festive hues, and Azazie's cabernet is one of our favorite wine-inspired shades. The Belladonna dress looks especially alluring in this color with its stately bateau neckline and sophisticated cowl drape sleeves.

Size: 0–30, custom | Materials: Mesh | Length: Floor

What to Look For in Fall Mother-of-the-Bride or Groom Dresses

Venue and Formality

When shopping for a mother-of-the-bride or groom dress, there are a few things you'll want to consider before selecting a frock. First, pay attention to the venue and formality of the event. Typically, evening weddings require more formal attire, like the Mac Duggal Pleated Long Sleeve Satin A-Line Gown, but sticking to the dress code is essential for parents and wedding party members.

In fact, you'll likely be one of the most dressed-up people there since your role is one of extreme honor. When in doubt, ask to have your son, daughter, or a member of their wedding party give their input and suggestions regarding your attire.

Weather and Climate

It's also important to pay attention to the expected weather and temperature of the event before narrowing in on a dress style. Some fall weddings can be extremely comfortable while others can get downright cold.

A safe bet would be selecting a style with shorter or sheer sleeves and then bringing along a matching jacket or shawl in preparation for potential dropping temperatures. But if the wedding is held on a cold autumn day, something with long sleeves might be the way to go, like the Mac Duggal Long Sleeve Sequin Trumpet Gown.

Fabric and Color

Unlike spring or summer where bright colors reign supreme, during the fall, harvest colors and jewel tones tend to take center stage. In addition to deep purples, bright burgundies, glittering golds, and mustard yellows, you should also be on the lookout for luxe fabrics and textures. If you've ever wanted to rock a look with velvet or satin like Amsale Column Dress, this is the time!

FAQ

What colors are popular for fall mother-of-the-bride or groom dresses?

Most people gravitate toward moody, harvest, and jewel tones for fall weddings. Think deep purples and greens, rich burgundies and blues, metallic like gold, and classic black. That said, as long as you adhere to the dress code and steer clear of white or ultra vibrant shades (unless otherwise requested from the couple of honor), wear a hue you love.
Should I wear long sleeves to a fall wedding?

It's a good idea to keep the ceremony/reception space in mind, as well as the location and temperature when selecting your look. For outdoor events in colder climates, longer sleeves could make you feel more comfortable. Regardless, bring a jacket or shrug since many places still get chilly as the sun sets during the autumn months. Even better, select a gown that comes with a jacket like AW Bridal Babette Dress.
What type of dress should I wear to a fall wedding?

Typically fall wedding styles include draped designs, vintage-inspired lace, and pops of shine that nod toward the decadence of the season. That said, taking cues from the venue's decor, colors, and theme can help you narrow in on a dress that feels appropriate and intentional.

Why Trust Brides

Contributing Expert Writer Rachel Varina is a full-time freelancer with over 10 years of editorial experience and six years of experience in the wedding industry. Her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Elite Daily, Betches, Zola, and more. Additional research and product selections were done by Theresa Holland, a commerce writer specializing in fashion, beauty, and travel.

The 18 Best Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses Available Online