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 .

The 22 Best Mother of the Bride Dresses with Sleeves of 2024

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 cocktail 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.

Amsale

View On Anthropologie $495 View On Saks Fifth Avenue $495

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

Alex Evenings Scalloped Sequin Lace and Satin Jacket Dress

David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

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

David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

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

La Femme Floral Lace & Tulle Gown in Burgundy

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom $619 View On Verishop.com $619

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

AW bridal

View On Awbridal.com $90

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

DB Studio Metallic Foil Lace Mermaid With Cropped Popover

David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

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

Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie $295

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

Mac Duggal Sequined V-Neck Cape Sleeve Column Gown

Lord & Taylor

View On Macduggal.com

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

Baltic Born

View On Balticborn.com

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

Adrianna Papell Plus Metallic Blouson Gown

Amazon

View On Amazon $70 View On Bloomingdales $69

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

Oleg Cassini Long Sleeve Beaded Illusion Godet Hem Dress

David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

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

AW bridal

View On Awbridal.com

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

Oleg Cassini Long Sleeve Floral Chiffon Maxi Dress

David's Bridal

View On David's Bridal

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

Anthropologie

View On Anthropologie $248

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

Mac Duggal

View On Macduggal.com

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

Reem Acra Embellished Wrap-Effect Satin Pique Gown

NET-A-PORTER

View On Net-a-Porter

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

Tadashi Shoji Sequin Stud Plunge Neck Long Sleeve Midi Dress

Nordstrom

View On Nordstrom $528 View On Neiman Marcus $258

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

NET-A-PORTER

View On Net-a-Porter $870

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

Revolve

View On Revolve

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

Ralph Lauren

View On Ralphlauren.com

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

JJâs House

View On Jjshouse.com

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

Azazie

View On Azazie.com

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

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 writer Jessica Booth is 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.

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