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The Chicest Mother-of-the-Bride (and Groom) Looks to Shop Now

The mother-of-the-bride section in your local department store is not your friend.

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Photograph, Event, Ceremony, Yellow, Wedding dress, Wedding, Bridal clothing, Dress, Bride, Wedding reception,
Corbin Gurkin; David Stark

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

For a mother of the bride or groom, the wedding day is not just another celebration, and warrants a dress or gown that feels unique, special, and reflective of her personal style. While ensuring she looks neither too bridal nor like a bridesmaid is key, she is definitely not your average guest. Her outfit should be thoughtful, match the feel of the wedding, and avoid distracting from the bride. The look should speak to the silhouettes and colors that make her feel most confident, and respect the honorary role she serves in your bridal party.

Allow your mom to show off her assets, and show off what feels natural and comfortable to her. Killer arms mean sleeveless or sheer sleeves are a must; a slim natural waist deserves to be accentuated, and great legs mean she should consider a midi hemline. Most moms opt for a high neckline, but for those whose décolleté deserves centerstage, a V-neck is ideal. Balance what mom conceals and reveals for a sophisticated look, but don't assume she needs to be covered from head-to-toe. She has cause for celebration; embrace it and have fun with her fashion. Consider your family photos and the candid moments that will passed down from generation to generation when helping your mother select her look, and do your best to keep things age-appropriate, yet never matronly. Usually, the mother-of-the-bride section in your local department store is not your friend. Start online instead: From spring to winter, and day-time to black-tie, here are the BAZAAR Bride-approved MOB and MOG looks to shop now.

Pictured Above: Glenn Close photographed by Corbin Gurkin at the wedding of her daughter, Annie Starke designed by David Stark Design & Production.

1

Givenchy Mod Mom

Mod Mom
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A chic kaleidoscope-inspired floral print that has texture and dimension feels formal without being overtly glam. Understated elegance and a flair for the avant garde is what lands this look at the top of our list.

2

Elie Saab Neo-Neon

Neo-Neon
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Choose vibrant jewel tones and pops of color for daytime dressing in spring or summer.

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3

Giambattista Valli Prairie Party

Prairie Party
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Polished boho dressing is not going anywhere just yet, and a soft floral in an ethereal fabric is both elegant and fresh. 

4

Andrew Gn Secret Garden

Secret Garden

An all-over floral print feels more graphic and modern when set on black rather than a lighter fabrication. 

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5

Saloni Regal Redux

Regal Redux
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Victorian vibes are still on trend–and they feel extra fresh with metallic embellishments. Think: blouson sleeves, ruffles, and high necklines for a look that is festive rather than fussy. 

6

Balmain A La Audrey

A La Audrey
Now 25% Off
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Built-in embellishments are best served with high-neck pearls, inspired by one of the most iconic looks of all time—Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's. 

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7

Giambattista Valli Scarlet Fever

Scarlet Fever
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Trade in the LBD for a sophisticated red gown in an elegant fabric that is understated without being over-the-top. Take your look to the next level with fun accessories.

8

Valentino Gilded Goddess

Gilded Goddess
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A pleated tulle gown is refreshing and apros for any formal affair when done in a tonal color and textural beadwork. 

9

Givenchy Black Magic

Black Magic
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 Want to level up a traditional black dress? Opt for one with crystal embellishments at the neckline and a sheer cape. 

10

Marchesa Notte Into the Blue

Into the Blue
Now 60% Off
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For the mother looking to dress for an outdoor affair, an off-the-shoulder appliquéd gown is ethereal, while 3D embroidery feels formal, yet playful. 

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11

Hillier Bartley Ensemble Envy

Ensemble Envy
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A draped, sculptural silhouette in a jewel tone, like emerald or sapphire, feels worthy of the matriarchy for all the right reasons. An asymmetrical sleeveless shoulder offers a more modern vibe. Dress this look up with bold-toned accessories for a look that feels chic and eclectic.

12

Oscar de la Renta Velvet Vixen

Velvet Vixen
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Meet the ultimate in black tie dressing: a velvet gown with crystal embellishments that feels formal and glam, yet undeniably sleek and modern.

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13

Talbot Runhof Royal Renegade

Royal Renegade
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A gown with a cape exudes a queen-like quality that's worthy of one of the women of the hour. An amethyst or other jewel toned hue will pop and feel luxe, without competing with bridal white.  

14

Emilia Wickstead White Out

White Out
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Opting to wear a white gown requires the bride's permission, but if you have the green light, it's an elegant look that feels chic and fresh in any season.

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15

MATÉRIEL Mellow Yellow

Mellow Yellow
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A belted midi dress in a festive yellow or ochre feels fresh during changing seasons, and inspires artful accessories.

16

Marchesa Notte Pretty Pastels

Pretty Pastels
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Black tie affairs (traditionally) mean floor length looks with luxe accessories. For the mother of the bride or groom, opting for a gown that has neckline embellishments and a tiered skirt will feel fresh. 

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17

Pamella Roland Feather Fancy

Feather Fancy
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Rich tones like sapphire, amethyst, and citrine in rich textures are just as celebratory as emerald and garnet. Opt for feather embellishments for some added drama. You have reason to celebrate, after all.

18

Erdem Floral Fancy

Floral Fancy
Now 30% Off
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For a daytime or destination wedding, consider fresh florals. Pair with chic accessories, like dramatic earrings or a statement shoe.

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19

Saloni Blue Crush

Blue Crush
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Find fabrics that feel regal and rich, like a silk-satin jacquard. Make it modern by opting for a one-shoulder style with a puff sleeve. 

20

Rachel Gilbert Rose Gold

Rose Gold
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There's nothing more festive than a shimmering metallic while showing off your assets. Plus, an elegant fit feels formal and appropriate for the occasion. 

Headshot of Heather Hall
Heather Hall
Contributing Weddings Writer

Heather Hall is a weddings, fashion, and lifestyle writer and editor. Her career in weddings began at The Knot, where she worked as a bridal fashion editor. She then worked as a PR Manager at Amsale, a bridal design house, before starting her own events and digital marketing business. She has been featured on Today.com, MSN.com, Yahoo.com, Racked.com, Huffington Post, Verily Magazine, and Style Me Pretty. Heather loves music, travel, and practicing yoga. In her spare time she's typically researching the next fun workout class to try, or finding a new concert to attend. Her latest goal: become a DJ.  

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