What colors should a mother of the groom avoid wearing?

Unless specifically approved by the couple, a good rule of thumb is to avoid wearing white or any hue that might resemble the bride’s wedding dress or groom’s suit or tuxedo . Also, if you're considering a super-bold color or loud print, it may be best to run it by the bride and groom first. Light and airy colors, as well as fun floral prints, are always great for spring and summer ceremonies. Winter weddings and formal affairs often call for darker, jewel-toned hues like navy blue, black, or burgundy. So these are good considerations to keep in mind when deciding on the color of your mother of the groom ensemble.

Do I have to run my outfit by the couple?

While the couple will surely want you to feel your best in your mother-of-the-groom outfit, having a conversation with the couple beforehand can help. This can help set expectations and also narrow down your options when searching for your perfect dress for the big day.

What is the most flattering dress silhouette for a plus-size mother of the groom?

Some of the most flattering dress silhouettes for a plus-size mother of the groom are A-line, mermaid, and sheath. With that being said, mothers of the groom should always feel empowered to experiment with all different types of silhouettes.

6 Best Plus-Size Mother of the Groom Dresses of 2023

Mother of the groom wearing a plus-size dress on a beige background

Although it's the happy couple's big day, as the mother of the groom, you deserve to find an outfit that not only showcases your personal style but also celebrates your figure. Finding a plus-size dress that feels and looks amazing can be a challenge, but your search ends here. From black-tie gowns to knee-length cocktail dresses, there are numerous dress styles that will work for any occasion, venue, and wedding aesthetic.

When shopping for a plus-size mother-of-the-groom outfit, you'll first want to consider the silhouette. A-line and sheath silhouettes are always flattering options for any body type, but feel free to experiment with whatever speaks to you. Once you've nailed the silhouette, you can start narrowing your choices down by matching your dress to the wedding colors and theme, season, and dress code. Floor-length gowns are a must for formal events, but you can opt for mini and midi dresses for more casual occasions with a cocktail wedding dress code.

To help you find the perfect dress for your son's big day, we've researched various options from trusted retailers with these features in mind. If you're in the market for something utterly elegant, the BHLDN Serephina Crepe Maxi Dress will stun at any black-tie affair. For a pop of color and texture, we love the Mac Duggal Ruffle Wrap Effect Dress (Plus) and the Adriana Papell Plus Size Hand-Beaded Midi Dress.

When choosing your dress color, make sure it doesn't match the bride's wedding dress or groom's suit or tuxedo. If you're unsure about the color, run it by the bride and groom first.

Read on for the best plus-size mother-of-the-groom dresses for every style and budget.

01 of 06

Best for a Semi-Formal Wedding: Adrianna Papell Plus Size Hand-Beaded Midi-Dress With Flutter Sleeves in Rose Gold

For Semi-Formal Attire: Adrianna Papell Hand-Beaded Midi Dress — Adrianna Papell

$349 at Adriannapapell.com

Runs: True to Size | Size Range: 14 to 26 | Length: Midi | Materials: Polyester lining and beading

If you're looking for something a little less formal than a floor-length gown, opt for a style that hits right at the knee or calf. The hand-beaded embellishments of this Adrianna Papell midi instantly elevate this perfect semi-formal look. We are partial to this rose-gold color for spring weddings, but it's also available in dark purple or navy blue, which are ideal for winter weddings. It has a flared silhouette with a fitted skirt, and it's constructed of polyester for a soft, comfortable fit.

02 of 06

Best for a Winter Wedding: Jenny Yoo Ryland Velvet Maxi Dress

$295 at Anthropologie

Runs: True to Size | Size Range: 0 to 26 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Velvet

This velvet dress from Jenny Yoo is a chic and practical choice for a formal winter wedding. The plunging front and back necklines are universally flattering, and the ruched detailing adds a modern touch to the overall style. The long sleeves will keep you warm during the cold weather, and the floor length and simple silhouette look elegant and regal. Pair this with sparking shoes and jewelry for a completed look.

The 12 Best Winter Wedding Guest Dresses for Every Dress Code

03 of 06

Best Two-Piece: Alex Evenings Short Embroidered Elongated Lace Mock Jacket with Jersey Sheath Dress

Best Two-Piece: Alex Evenings Matte Jersey Plus Size Dress With Attached Jacket — Amazon

$239 at Amazon $239 at Nordstrom

Runs: True to Size | Size Range: 14W to 24W | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Matte jersey

This floral two-piece midi dress and jacket is the ideal option for a warm-weather wedding. The lilac color, in particular, screams spring, but it also comes in blue, sage, navy, and taupe. It's made of soft polyester and stretchy spandex, so you will be comfortable all day long. It has a straight silhouette and fits true to size. Pair it with silver accessories for a finished look.

04 of 06

Best Halter Neckline: BHLDN Ruby Satin Charmeuse Dress in Champagne

$248 at Anthropologie

Runs: True to Size | Size Range: 16W to 26W | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Satin charmeuse

Bringing an elevated element to a classic design, the twisted halter neckline is ultra chic and effortless. We're obsessed with this satin charmeuse fabric for its lightweight and lustrous feel. The maxi silhouette is ideal for formal occasions, but you can also sport this at a more casual event, too. It's available in over 10 colors, so you can find an option to complement the wedding theme and season.

05 of 06

Best Midi: BHLDN Cali Satin Cowl-Neck Midi Slip Dress

$168 at Anthropologie

Runs: True to Size | Size Range: 16W to 26W | Length: Midi | Materials: Satin charmeuse

The cowl neckline on this number from BHLDN is such a beautiful way to frame your face in a unique and fashion-forward way. Falling at midi length with a simple silhouette, the Cali dress features two slits for optimal comfort and mobility. Like many other options from this brand, it comes available in several different colors that will go with any season and wedding color palette. It's made of lightweight satin charmeuse fabric, so you won't need to worry about overheating in warmer weather.

06 of 06

Most Elegant: Amsale Pryce Off-Shoulder Satin Column Gown

$495 at Anthropologie $495 at Saks Fifth Avenue

Runs: True to Size | Size Range: 16W to 24W | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Silk

This Amsale gown exudes pure elegance and sophistication. Available in an array of colors, the silky sheen of this stunning fabric and beautiful column silhouette speak for themselves. The ruched detailing gives it a modern flair, and the floor length is appropriate for formal weddings. Pair it with matching color heels for a polished, monochromatic look.

What to Look for in a Plus-Size Mother-of-the-Groom Dress

It goes without saying that you'll want to look and feel your best on your son's big day, so finding an outfit that's stylish and fits you perfectly is of the utmost importance. Before you start your search, it's helpful to identify what silhouettes work best for your body type and what assets you're looking to show off. We've got tons of resources to guide you along the way when it comes to styling your body type and finding dresses to buy.

Then, you can narrow down your options by taking cues from the wedding's theme, color palette, and dress code. Allow for plenty of time prior to the wedding to research and experiment with different ensembles before it's time to make a final decision. After you've locked down your look, make sure to slip it on one or two times leading up to the big day to ensure a seamless fit and ideal length, then pair it with the perfect accessories. Take your gown to a seamstress if the dress you purchased needs alterations—and don't forget to hang and steam your gown the day before!

FAQ

What colors should a mother of the groom avoid wearing?

Unless specifically approved by the couple, a good rule of thumb is to avoid wearing white or any hue that might resemble the bride’s wedding dress or groom’s suit or tuxedo. Also, if you're considering a super-bold color or loud print, it may be best to run it by the bride and groom first.
Light and airy colors, as well as fun floral prints, are always great for spring and summer ceremonies. Winter weddings and formal affairs often call for darker, jewel-toned hues like navy blue, black, or burgundy. So these are good considerations to keep in mind when deciding on the color of your mother of the groom ensemble.
Do I have to run my outfit by the couple?

While the couple will surely want you to feel your best in your mother-of-the-groom outfit, having a conversation with the couple beforehand can help. This can help set expectations and also narrow down your options when searching for your perfect dress for the big day.
What is the most flattering dress silhouette for a plus-size mother of the groom?

Some of the most flattering dress silhouettes for a plus-size mother of the groom are A-line, mermaid, and sheath. With that being said, mothers of the groom should always feel empowered to experiment with all different types of silhouettes.

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writer Sophie Moore is a former fashion editor at Brides and is an expert in all things bridal attire, from couture wedding gowns to the perfect "something blue" accessory. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, wedding guests, wedding parties, and more.

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