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Bridal fashion has grown over the years and there are so many fashion-forward modern dresses available for brides.
Finally, we can see this happening with the mother of the bride and groom’s outfits also.
Traditionally the mother’s outfits have been frumpy and old fashioned, but now you can find fantastic dresses for mums that not only look great and suit her figure but are modern and fashionable too.
So if you’re looking for something a little bit more unusual and stylish than the traditional mother of bride or groom outfit, then check out some of these fantastic dresses.
You’ll feel amazing and your children will love seeing you in one of these cool outfits!
How to not look frumpy in your mother of the bride outfit
According to Tania Stephans, who is an expert in over 50s fashion and styling.
“One of the most obvious signs that you’re looking frumpy is if your clothes are too big or too small. Clothes that are too big can make you look shapeless and unkempt, while clothes that are too small can be uncomfortable and unflattering.”
This is why I always suggest to mothers to have their dress or outfit professionally altered. It is not always needed but it is definitely a surefire way to not look frumpy.
I talk further down about styling your outfit as this can play a huge part in the overall look.
But the main thing is confidence and comfort. So making sure what you wear fits well and feels comfortable is the number one thing to consider.
When you feel good it shows and as they say, confidence is key.
WHERE TO BUY unique MOTHER OF THE BRIDE & groom DRESSES?
If you are looking for something that won’t make you look frumpy, we say forget about the traditional mother of the bride shops and get looking online.
Look in your favourite shops also and see what formal wear they have.
As a special occasion going to your favourite designer is a great way to have a classy mother of the bride or groom outfit.
BEST ONLINE PLACES FOR UNIQUE MOTHER OF THE BRIDE AND GROOM OUTFITS
Unique MOTHER OF THE BRIDE OR GROOM OUTFITS that are not frumpy
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1. URBAN EDITOR CHOICE – ALEXANDER MACQUEEN
For the ultra-cool mother of the bride (or groom) who isn’t afraid to make a statement, Alexander McQueen offers a bold yet elegant approach to wedding fashion.
These pieces are for those who appreciate high-fashion tailoring, dramatic silhouettes, and a touch of edge.
Whether it’s a sleek, structured gown, a chic tailored suit with sharp shoulders, or an avant-garde dress with unexpected details, McQueen’s designs redefine what it means to dress for a wedding.
Perfect for the mother who wants to feel confident, powerful, and undeniably stylish while stepping away from traditional styles.
If you’re drawn to a modern, fashion-forward aesthetic with a rebellious streak—this is the brand for you!
2. MOST CLASSY MOTHER OF THE BRIDE OR GROOM DRESS – SELF PORTRAIT
For the mother who wants timeless elegance with a modern twist, Self-Portrait delivers the perfect balance of sophistication and contemporary style.
Their designs embrace the traditional mother-of-the-bride aesthetic while standing out with their impeccable tailoring, intricate detailing, and effortlessly chic designs. The brand perfectly balances classic elegance with a modern edge, offering pieces that feel sophisticated yet contemporary.
Self-Portrait is one of my go-to brands for weddings and special occasions.
Their pieces always feel luxurious, with high-quality fabrics and flattering cuts that make them a standout choice.
The craftsmanship and attention to detail never disappoint, making their dresses a worthwhile investment for such an important day.
One note—this brand tends to run small, so I’d recommend sizing up for the best fit!
3. THE BEST FLORAL DRESS – NEEDLE AND THREAD
If you love a romantic, ethereal look but want something a little different from the traditional mother-of-the-bride styles, Needle & Thread is a perfect choice.
Their designs are effortlessly elegant, featuring delicate floral details, intricate embellishments, and soft, floaty silhouettes that feel both feminine and modern.
Whether you prefer dreamy pastels, vintage-inspired embroidery, or subtle sparkle, their pieces offer a fresh and stylish alternative.
Needle & Thread is one of my absolute favorite designers for weddings and big events I attend. The quality is always exceptional, and their dresses feel incredible to wear—light, flattering, and beautifully made.
Every piece has a whimsical yet polished feel, making it a great option for mothers who want to look sophisticated while embracing a more unique and romantic style.
Even better, their “Pay for What You Keep” service lets you order multiple sizes and styles for free, so you can try everything on at home and only pay for what you love—making it even easier to find the perfect outfit for the big day!
4. LUXURY, UNIQUE, AND FASHION-FORWARD CHOICES – Bergdorf Goodman
This is a US-only option, but I had to include it because Bergdorf Goodman has some of the most stunning, high-fashion choices for mothers who want something unique and luxurious. Their collection is filled with incredible designers, and I’m especially loving Rickie Freeman’s collection for Teri Jon—perfect for those looking for elegant yet modern styles with a bit of an edge.
This is one of my favorite places to find something extra special. Whether you want a statement dress, a sophisticated jumpsuit, or a bold alternative to traditional mother-of-the-bride outfits, the selection here is full of high-quality, fashion-forward pieces that truly stand out.
If you want to splurge but a full designer outfit feels like too much, consider elevating your look with a designer hat, statement shoes, or luxe accessories—it’s an easy way to add that high-end touch while keeping your outfit uniquely you!
5. DRAMATIC, FASHION-FORWARD LOOK – CAPE DRESSES
If you want a mother-of-the-bride or groom outfit that feels effortlessly elegant yet undeniably bold, a cape dress is the perfect choice.
These designs offer the sophistication of a classic gown with the added drama of a flowing cape, creating a striking silhouette that feels both powerful and refined.
I love cape dresses because they offer a modern alternative to traditional styles—ideal for mothers who want something unique, fashion-forward, and statement-making.
Whether you prefer sleek and minimal or intricate and embellished, cape dresses bring a regal, confident energy to any wedding look.
Plus, they’re incredibly flattering and versatile—offering coverage without feeling heavy, making them perfect for both formal ballroom settings and elegant outdoor celebrations.
If you’re looking for an outfit that feels sophisticated, stylish, and just a little bit daring, this is the one to go for!
6. BEST FOR A BLACK-TIE WEDDING – ADRIANNA PAPELL
If you’re looking for a stylish and elegant mother-of-the-bride or groom dress that feels timeless, flattering, and anything but frumpy, Adrianna Papell is a fantastic choice.
Their designs are effortlessly sophisticated, with classic silhouettes and beautiful details that you’ll still love years down the line.
I love that they offer unique, high-quality dresses at a great price point, making them a go-to for black-tie weddings.
Their size range is inclusive, ensuring a great fit for a variety of body types.
7. BEST CHOICE FOR A CHIC, MODERN LOOK – PANTSUITS
If you’re a mother of the bride or groom looking for a sophisticated yet nontraditional outfit, a trouser suit is a perfect choice. It’s effortlessly elegant, incredibly chic, and ideal for those who prefer something sleek and tailored over a traditional dress.
I love a well-cut pantsuit for its versatility and confidence-boosting silhouette—it exudes power and style while still feeling feminine and refined.
Whether you opt for a classic tuxedo-style suit, a wide-leg tailored set, or an embellished blazer with matching trousers, these outfits offer a polished, fashion-forward alternative that works beautifully for both black-tie and more relaxed celebrations.
Perfect for the mother who wants to feel modern yet timeless, a trouser suit is a stylish way to stand out while still looking effortlessly sophisticated.
8. GOING BESPOKE – SAVANNA CREATIONS
Ever since I shared the stunning mother-of-the-bride look worn by Caroline Labouchere, (give her a follow) I’ve had so many questions about her dress.
It was designed bespoke for her by Savanna Creations, a Dubai-based atelier specializing in custom-made, high-fashion pieces.
If you want the exact look, going directly to them is the best option, but I’ve done some research to find similar off-the-rack alternatives for those who love the style but need a more accessible option.
While I haven’t been able to track down a ready-made jacket with the same 3D floral details, you can create a similar effect by buying appliqué flowers and having them added by a seamstress to an existing jacket. This allows you to get that intricate, high-fashion look without the full bespoke price tag.
For ready-to-wear alternatives:
- Self-Portrait has pink and blue options that could work beautifully when paired with a tulle skirt to achieve a similar soft, romantic aesthetic. They have a few similiar style optons also.
- Phase Eight offers a jacket in a similar fabric, though with a different cut, as well as a dress with an overlay top that gives a comparable layered effect.
If a fully bespoke outfit isn’t within your budget, consider having just the jacket custom-made or buying and pairing it with a tulle skirt and a statement belt for a more affordable yet equally striking look.
Etsy is a great resource for this—many sellers offer tulle skirts and may even be able to create a matching jacket. You might also find bridal jackets that could work as an alternative search term when looking for similar styles.
Ultimately, whether you go full bespoke or mix and match ready-to-wear with custom details, this look is all about elegance, individuality, and creativity—a perfect choice for a mother who wants something truly special.
9. BEST CHOICE FOR A GLAMOROUS, EYE-CATCHING LOOK – SEQUINS
If you’re a mother of the bride or groom who loves a bit of glamour and sparkle, a sequin outfit is the perfect way to make a statement while still looking elegant.
Whether you go for a fully embellished gown, a chic sequin blazer, or a jumpsuit with subtle shimmer, sequins instantly elevate your look, making them ideal for evening and black-tie weddings.
I love sequin pieces because they feel luxurious and sophisticated, while still being fun and modern. If a head-to-toe sequin look feels too bold, consider a dress with sequin accents, a beaded overlay, or a metallic thread fabric for a softer take on sparkle.
For those who love a mix of textures, pairing a sequin top with tailored trousers or a tulle skirt can create a stunning, balanced look. No matter how you style them, sequins add that extra-special touch, ensuring you shine—literally—on the big day!
10. BEST CHOICE FOR A MODERN, EFFORTLESS LOOK – JUMPSUITS
If you’re a mother of the bride or groom looking for a chic and contemporary alternative to a dress, a jumpsuit is the perfect choice.
Sleek, stylish, and effortlessly elegant, a well-tailored jumpsuit offers the same sophistication as a gown while feeling fresh, modern, and incredibly comfortable.
I love jumpsuits because they are versatile and flattering, with options ranging from sleek and minimal to bold and embellished.
Whether you prefer a structured wide-leg silhouette, a draped one-shoulder design, or something with intricate lace or beading, there’s a style to suit every personality and dress code.
Perfect for formal and relaxed weddings alike, a jumpsuit is a confident, fashion-forward option that proves you don’t need a dress to look stunning on the big day!
11. BEST CHOICE FOR A STYLISH LOOK ON A BUDGET
Looking stunning as the mother of the bride or groom doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune. There are so many affordable yet elegant options that offer great quality and style without the high-end price tag. Whether you’re looking for a classic dress, a chic trouser suit, or a modern jumpsuit, there are plenty of brands that deliver beautiful designs at a lower price point.
Some of my favorite budget-friendly brands include:
- Phase Eight – Great for timeless, elegant dresses and modern mother-of-the-bride styles.
- ASOS Edition – A mix of contemporary and classic looks with a fresh, stylish edge.
- Coast – Perfect for statement pieces, including occasion dresses, tailored suits, and accessories.
- Etsy – A great place to find handmade and customizable pieces, including tulle skirts, jackets, and unique accessories.
If you’re working with a tighter budget, consider mixing high and low—invest in one standout piece, like a beautifully tailored blazer or dress, and pair it with affordable accessories. Rental services can also be a smart option for one-off events, allowing you to wear designer styles for a fraction of the price.
Ultimately, it’s all about choosing something that makes you feel incredible, no matter the budget!
How to style an outfit to not look frumpy
Styling a mother of the bride outfit to avoid looking frumpy involves selecting the right clothing, accessories, and makeup to create a sophisticated look.
Head to our guide on hiding belly fat for top tips to looking slimmer.
Here are some tips to help you achieve that:
- Choose a Flattering Dress:
- Opt for a dress or outfit that complements your body shape and fits well. Consider A-line, sheath, or wrap-style dresses, as they tend to be universally flattering.
- Pay attention to the length of the dress; a knee-length or tea-length dress is often a good choice, as it looks elegant without being overly formal.
- Select the Right Color:
- Consult with the bride to ensure your outfit complements the wedding colour scheme.
- Neutral colours like navy, champagne, silver, or soft pastels are typically safe and sophisticated choices.
- Focus on Fabric:
- Choose high-quality, luxurious fabrics that drape well and add an element of sophistication to your outfit, such as silk, chiffon, or lace.
- Less is more, don’t go for fabrics with too much detail or texture they can be overpowering
- Accessorize Thoughtfully:
- Add statement jewellery like a statement necklace, elegant earrings, or a stylish bracelet to elevate your look.
- A clutch bag or small handbag in a coordinating colour can be a stylish addition.
- Keep it simple and stylish, pick colours that compliment your outfit
- Consider a Jacket or Cover-Up:
- Depending on the weather and the formality of the event, you may want to wear a matching jacket, shawl, or bolero to stay warm and add a layer of sophistication.
- Again, consider your outfit choice and don’t over layer to look bulky and want the lengths to match up.
- Pay Attention to Makeup and Hairstyling:
- Consider professional makeup and hairstyling to complete your look.
- Opt for a natural and polished makeup look, and choose a hairstyle that complements your dress and personal style.
- Confidence is Key:
- Confidence can make any outfit look stylish. Wear your outfit with pride and confidence, and you’ll radiate elegance.
- Tailoring Matters:
- Ensure your outfit fits perfectly by getting it tailored if necessary. Proper fit can significantly enhance your overall appearance. It can be key to not looking frumpy!
- Consider Your Personal Style:
- Incorporate elements of your personal style into your outfit to feel comfortable and authentic.
- What you usually wear is more than likely what suits you, work with that but looking for something more special.
Unique mother of the bride dresses, no frumpy outfits here!
Ultimately, the key to not looking frumpy is to strike a balance between elegance and comfort while staying true to your personal style.
Collaborate with the couple and consider their preferences while choosing your outfit to ensure that it complements the overall wedding theme.
Check out these real mothers of the brides for fabulous inspiration.
What you will notice is they all keep the hair and make up simple and elegant. They let the unique outfits shine.
I am sure you will agree they all look fabulous and definitely not a single frumpy look insight!
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