Mother of the Bride dresses under $150/£100, but you wouldn't know!

Finding a mother of the bride dress under $150 used to feel like a compromise. Limited styles, dated shapes, or fabrics that just didn’t feel special enough for such an important day. That’s changed in a big way.

While pulling this edit together, I’ve been genuinely impressed by how many stylish, flattering, and wedding-appropriate options are available at this price point.

From classic and timeless dresses that feel elegant without being old-fashioned, to more modern and slightly non-traditional styles that still feel completely appropriate for a wedding, there are far more good choices than you’d expect.

This roundup includes 18 mother of the bride dresses under $150/£100 that actually look the part.

Think thoughtful silhouettes, comfortable fabrics, and designs that work for real women, not just runway models.

Whether you’re leaning traditional, modern, or somewhere in between, these are proof that you don’t need to stretch your budget to find something you feel confident and polished wearing on the day.

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What to Look for in a Mother of the Bride Dress on a Budget

You don’t need a big budget to look polished and appropriate on the wedding day, but you do need to be a little strategic. At this price point, knowing what actually makes a dress look expensive matters far more than chasing trends or labels.

Fabric First (This Is Where Cheap Shows)

Fabric is usually the first giveaway. Even the best design can fall flat if the material doesn’t move or photograph well.

Crepe, chiffon, and satin-backed fabrics are your safest bets under £300. They drape nicely, hold their shape, and look smooth in photos without clinging in the wrong places. These fabrics also tend to feel lighter and more comfortable over a long day.

What to be cautious with at this price point is ultra-thin polyester that shows every crease, or heavy embellishment that’s glued rather than stitched. Beading and sequins can look beautiful, but when they’re overdone on a budget dress they often read as stiff, shiny, or dated, especially in natural light.

Shape Over Trend

When budgets are tighter, shape will always matter more than what’s currently “in”.

Clean lines nearly always look more expensive than trend-led details. Ruffles, cut-outs, dramatic sleeves, or asymmetrical hems can work beautifully at higher price points, but under £300 they’re harder to execute well.

Universally flattering silhouettes include wrap dresses, bias-cut styles, soft A-lines, and column dresses with a bit of structure through the waist or shoulders. These shapes skim rather than cling, photograph well from every angle, and feel appropriate across a wide range of wedding styles.

Colour Choices That Look Premium

Colour does a lot of the heavy lifting when you’re shopping on a budget.

Classic neutrals like navy, champagne, soft taupe, slate, and sage consistently look elegant and wedding-appropriate. They also tend to be easier to rewear after the wedding, which is a bonus.

Prints can work, but only when they’re subtle. Soft florals, abstract patterns, or muted tonal designs usually look more refined than bold, high-contrast prints. If the pattern feels loud on the hanger, it will likely dominate in photos too. When in doubt, a solid colour with thoughtful styling almost always wins.

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10 Stylish Mother of the Bride Dresses Under $400 / £300

1. Perfect for a Garden Wedding Mother of the Bride Dress

This dress is a great example of how simple can still feel very elegant. The clean neckline and gently shaped bodice create a flattering, timeless silhouette, while the soft blue tone works beautifully for spring and summer weddings.

It’s especially well suited to outdoor ceremonies, garden venues, or daytime weddings where you want something light, comfortable, and appropriate without going overly formal. Paired with a fascinator or delicate accessories, it feels classic but fresh.

2. Beaded Classic Mother of the Bride Evening Dress

If you’re looking for something more traditional with a bit of occasion sparkle, this beaded dress is a strong choice. The all-over embellishment adds texture and interest without feeling flashy, while the short sleeves and structured shape keep it elegant and wedding-appropriate.

This style works particularly well for formal venues, evening receptions, or black-tie-leaning weddings where a more classic look feels right. It’s one of those dresses that photographs beautifully and still feels comfortable enough to wear all day.

3. Best Designer Dupe Mother of the Bride Dress

This dress feels timeless and refined, with a soft cape overlay that adds coverage without heaviness. This dress looks like a designer dress and just can’t believe it is under $150!

The draping through the bodice creates a gentle, flowing shape that looks elegant in motion and photographs beautifully during the ceremony.

It’s particularly well suited to classic venues, countryside weddings, or formal outdoor settings. The muted green tone is a lovely alternative to neutrals and works well across spring, summer, and early autumn weddings.

4. Elegant Cape-Style Mother of the Bride Dress

This cape-style dress is a beautiful option for mothers who want something refined, flattering, and quietly statement-making. The soft draping through the neckline and the fluid cape overlay create movement without adding bulk, which makes it especially lovely for formal or evening weddings.

What really works here is how the cape gives coverage through the arms and shoulders while still feeling light and modern, rather than heavy or dated. It’s a confident, polished look that feels special enough for the role without trying too hard.

5. Wrap-Style Mother of the Bride Dress

I think a wrap dress is always the perfect occasionwear dress that suits all shapes and sizes.

This wrap-style dress is a reliable, flattering option that works beautifully for daytime and early evening weddings.

The V-neckline and gentle tie detail define the waist without feeling tight, while the flutter sleeves add coverage and movement through the arms.

It’s an easy choice if you want something comfortable, elegant, and not overly structured. This style works especially well for outdoor ceremonies, garden venues, or relaxed formal weddings where you still want to look polished but not overdressed.

6. Floral Tea-Length Mother of the Bride Dress

This floral dress is perfect for mothers looking for something lighter, more relaxed, and slightly less traditional. The soft print keeps it wedding-appropriate, while the tiered skirt and short sleeves give it an easy, wearable feel.

It’s a great option for garden weddings, registry office ceremonies, or daytime celebrations where a full-length gown would feel too formal. Styled with simple heels and minimal jewellery, it feels cheerful, modern, and effortless.

7. Great For a Black Tie Wedding

For something a little more modern but still elegant, this one-shoulder chiffon dress is a standout. The softly pleated fabric creates movement and flow, while the asymmetric neckline adds interest without being too bold.

This style works best for evening weddings, formal venues, or candlelit receptions where you want something sleek and contemporary. It’s a great choice for mothers who prefer clean lines and a slightly fashion-forward look.

8. Blush Sleeveless Mother of the Bride Shift Dress

This sleeveless blush dress is a great option for mothers who prefer clean lines and a more tailored silhouette. This dress is only $18, she looks a million dollars in it!

The simple cut keeps it elegant and understated, while the soft pink shade feels warm and wedding-appropriate without being overly feminine.

It’s especially well suited to spring and summer weddings, classic venues, or daytime ceremonies where something streamlined and polished works best. Styled with a fascinator or statement earrings, it feels timeless rather than plain.

9. Perfect Purple Mother of the Bride Dress

This one-shoulder dress offers a slightly more modern take on a classic evening look. The soft metallic fabric catches the light beautifully, while the draped detailing through the waist adds interest without being fussy.

It’s a strong choice for formal venues, evening receptions, or weddings that lean a little more glamorous. If you like elegant dresses with subtle impact, this style strikes a nice balance between classic and contemporary.

10. Plus Size Mother of the Bride & Groom Dress

This sage green dress is a flattering, easy-to-wear option that works well for a wide range of body types. The flutter sleeves provide light arm coverage without feeling restrictive, and the wrap-style bodice creates a gentle shape through the waist.

It’s a great choice for indoor ceremonies, barn venues, or softly styled weddings where comfort and elegance matter equally. The muted green tone is versatile and works beautifully across multiple seasons.

11. Best Blue Mother of the Bride & Groom Dress

This beaded one-shoulder dress feels elegant and slightly more formal, without crossing into overly glamorous territory. The subtle embellishment adds texture and depth, while the asymmetric neckline keeps the look modern.

It’s particularly well suited to garden venues, classic country weddings, or early evening celebrations. This is the kind of dress that looks refined in photos and still feels comfortable to wear throughout the day.

12. Emerald Wedding Mother Dress

This one-shoulder emerald dress feels modern, confident, and effortlessly elegant. The clean neckline and softly flowing skirt create a flattering silhouette, while the rich green tone works beautifully for city venues and contemporary settings.

It’s an excellent choice for rooftop weddings, urban venues, or evening receptions where you want something polished but not overly formal. The subtle leg slit adds movement without feeling revealing, keeping the look sophisticated and wedding-appropriate.

13. Best Destination Mother Dress

This draped floral dress strikes a lovely balance between classic and relaxed. The soft print feels refined rather than busy, while the gentle gathering through the bodice adds shape without looking structured or stiff.

It’s ideal for destination weddings, European-style venues, or warm-weather celebrations where lighter fabrics and softer silhouettes feel right. This is a great option if you want something elegant that still feels easy to wear.

14. Gold Metallic Evening Mother of the Bride Gown

This gold metallic gown is a strong option for mothers attending formal or evening weddings. The fabric has a beautiful sheen that catches the light without feeling overly flashy, while the simple, streamlined silhouette keeps it timeless.

It works especially well for black-tie venues, ballroom receptions, or winter weddings where richer tones feel appropriate. Paired with minimal jewellery, it’s an understated but impactful look.

15. Beaded Halter-Neck Mother of the Bride Dress

This halter-neck beaded dress feels refined and slightly contemporary, making it a great option for modern venues. The delicate beading adds texture and interest, while the higher neckline keeps the overall look elegant and balanced.

It’s particularly well suited to gallery spaces, art venues, or evening receptions where something a little different still feels polished. This style works well if you prefer a clean silhouette with subtle detailing rather than heavy embellishment.

16. Yellow Rustic Wedding Mother of the Bride Dress

This yellow dress is a cheerful, non-traditional option that works beautifully for relaxed or rustic weddings. The soft ruffle detailing adds movement and interest without overwhelming the silhouette, while the warm tone feels summery and joyful.

It’s perfect for barn weddings, outdoor receptions, or informal celebrations where personality and comfort matter more than strict formality. Styled with simple accessories, it feels intentional rather than casual.

Best Places to Shop for Affordable Mother of the Bride Dresses

There are reliable places to shop when you’re trying to stay under $400/£300 — it’s just a case of knowing where to look and what each brand does best. I’ve put together a full, in-depth guide on mother of the bride dresses on a budget, including where to shop, price ranges, and what to expect from each retailer, which is worth bookmarking if you’re still early in the search.

As a quick overview, these are the types of brands that consistently hit this price point well:

UK occasionwear brands tend to offer the strongest balance of quality and fit, especially if you’re after something classic and wedding-appropriate. They’re usually reliable for structured dresses, flattering cuts, and timeless colours.

High-street brands are a good option if you want something more modern or understated. Their designs often lean cleaner and simpler, which can actually work in your favour on a budget, particularly for city or relaxed weddings.

Size-inclusive brands are worth checking even if you don’t specifically need extended sizing. Many do an excellent job with fabric weight, sleeve coverage, and thoughtful shaping, which translates well across all sizes.

Whichever brand you choose, always check the return policy and delivery times before ordering. Mother of the bride dresses often need a second size, a different colour, or minor tailoring, and having flexibility there makes the whole process far less stressful.

Styling Tips to Make a Budget Dress Look Expensive

This is the bit people underestimate. Styling can genuinely be the difference between a dress looking “nice” and looking really put together. Think of it as finishing touches rather than adding more.

Shoes & Bag

Neutral heels are usually the safest choice. Nude, taupe, soft gold, or metallics blend in and let the dress do the talking. Metallic shoes in particular can lift a simple outfit without feeling flashy, especially with navy, sage, or champagne tones.

Comfort still matters, though. If you’re constantly adjusting your shoes or thinking about your feet, it shows. A lower heel, block heel, or elegant flat that you can actually walk and stand in all day will always look more confident than a higher heel you’re struggling with. Confidence reads as expensive.

Jewellery

Less really is more here. Choose one statement piece and let that be enough, whether it’s earrings, a necklace, or a cuff bracelet.

Matching jewellery sets tend to look dated and overly “done,” especially with occasionwear. Mixing metals subtly or pairing one standout piece with simpler basics almost always looks more modern and considered.

Hair & Makeup

Polished but familiar is the goal. You should still look like you, just a more refined version.

Soft, well-blended makeup usually elevates simpler dresses far better than anything too heavy or dramatic. Neutral tones, defined brows, and a fresh complexion photograph beautifully and won’t date when you look back at photos. When the dress is clean and classic, understated hair and makeup help the whole look feel intentional rather than overworked.