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The thought of our batik and blue jeans-loving artist mother donning a demure taffeta sheath and bolero for the wedding strikes us all (but most of all my mom) as a little silly, but she'd still like to wear something festive that reflects her special relationship to the bride and groom.
She's stuck, my sister's stuck, I'm stuck. We'd love some offbeat ideas for mother of the bride dresses that are not frumpy! -Megan
I consulted with my own mom about this one since she too is not the sheath and bolero type. She's a cool chick and totally understands how to look fashionable but also age-appropriate… she's the queen of dresses that are not frumpy.
Your mom should wear something that not only looks and feels good, but that expresses her style (and potentially the style of the wedding!). Whether it's a gown or a midi-dress, you want something with a neckline that subtly reminds everyone how she came your mom (bow chicka bow bow!) but a silhouette that feels dignified and like she knows how to flatter her body type. Some of you might be more into a jumpsuit, others might want a skirt with a jacket… no matter what kind of mother of the bride outfit you're looking for, we're confident we can find something for ya!
So for all of you mothers of the bride preparing for your daughter's wedding, or step-mothers of the groom getting ready to rock the day, or nonbinary nurturing caregiver types getting ready to go to your LGBTQ child's wedding day… we have got the inspiration for you!
Mother of the bride dresses that are not frumpy, option 1: GO VINTAGE
If you want to channel those Dowton Abbey vibes, we love Wardrobe Shop's vintage vibes! The layered fabric and detailed embroidery on this midi dress gives it such a luxe vibe, and the lace around the shoulder neckline feels sophisticated… but most definitely NOT frumpy.
They have a wide range of mother of the bride or groom options in rich shades of burgundy and navy. These feel like these could be perfect for almost any wedding venue, a garden party OR a loft wedding. (And if it's a winter wedding? They've got vintage-styled coats to match!) They have plus sizes, with inclusive sizing going up to size 20.
Mother of the bride dresses that are not frumpy option 2: go for SEQUINS and sparkle
Some of these dresses are meant for bridesmaids but who cares. We're here for these perfect dresses for making plenty of guests look, without stealing too much attention from the bride.
Mother of the bride dresses that are not frumpy, option 3: GO RETRO
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About the Author: Catherine Clark
Catherine Clark loiters at her local library, makes art, watches movies en masse, plays video and tabletop games, poorly cooks healthy things, cuddles with her feline fur babies, and blogs at BijouxandBits.com.
