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19 Gorgeous Mother-of-the-Bride (and Groom) Dresses for Summer Weddings

These leading ladies deserve a fit that feels flattering, stylish, and oh-so special.

Mother and Daughter Looking Out the Window
Credit:

Christian Oth Studio

The maternal figures in a couple's life, whether that's the mother of the bride, mother of the groom, stepmother, aunt, grandmother, or a chosen mother, often receive a role of honor at a wedding ceremony and reception—and their attire should reflect it. These leading ladies deserve to wear a beautiful fit that feels flattering, stylish, and special. And in the case of summer mother-of-the-bride dresses, it should also be warm-weather appropriate.

Of course, finding a dress that fits all those requirements while coordinating with—but not matching—the wedding party isn't always easy. "The dress needs to be more special than a guest dress, but not so special that it looks like she's trying to be attention-seeking, explains stylist Julie Sabatino of The Stylish Bride. The gown should complement the day in both color and silhouette—and help them feel their very best, she adds.

From knee-length cocktail frocks to formal ball gowns, the summer mother-of-the-bride dresses on this list are suited to fit every taste and style.

01 of 19

Aidan Mattox Sleeveless Ball Gown

Aidan Mattox Gown
Credit:

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

We love the punchy, super-saturated fuchsia shade of this trench gown, a silhouette that Sabatino always returns to. "They are always the epitome of chic and very flattering," she says.

02 of 19

Mac Duggal Crepe Caftan Dress With Belt

Mother of the Bride Summer Wedding Dress
Credit:

Courtesy of Mac Duggal

This is not your grandmother's caftan. In a lovely lavender hue and crepe fabric, this elegantly draped gown makes a dramatic statement with its flowing sleeves and monochromatic belt.

03 of 19

Oleg Cassini Off-the-Shoulder Sequin Lace Mermaid Dress

Oleg Cassini Mother of the Bride Dress
Credit:

Courtesy of David's Bridal

Shimmer and shine in this gold metallic gown. The flattering silhouette includes an off-the-shoulder neckline, sequin lace, and a fitted mermaid silhouette.

04 of 19

Theia Floral Satin Midi-Dress

Theia Floral Midi Dress
Credit:

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

At a less-formal outdoor ceremony, this green floral cocktail dress with a sweetheart neckline stands out. The cap sleeves and corset-inspired detailing add additional femininity and sweetness to the design.

05 of 19

Kay Unger Floral Jacquard Walk-Thru Jumpsuit

Kay Unger Nova Floral Romper
Credit:

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

Summer's outdoor weddings call for slightly more playful prints and silhouettes than winter's formal indoor affairs. A perfect example: This full-skirted jumpsuit with a front slit. (Just think of how fun it'll be to dance in!)

06 of 19

Betsy & Adam Floral Print Metallic Ruffle Chiffon Gown

Summer Mother of the Bride Dresses
Credit:

Courtesy of Nordstrom

The halter neckline, bare shoulders, and flowy fabric on this chiffon gown give it a breezy feel (ideal for weddings in the hottest season of the year), while a bright floral print on the Kelly green frock gives "sipping a mojito in the garden" vibes.

07 of 19

Donna Karan New York Asymmetric-Neck Drape Gown

Donna Karen Summer Mother of the Bride Dresses
Credit:

Courtesy of Macy's

Capes and sweeping, draping fabrics aren’t just for brides and their gowns. Here, a long cape drape and gold-tone back chain adds a bit of drama to this hot pink flowy number from Donna Karen.

08 of 19

Adrianna Papell High-Low Mikado Gown with Asymmetric Hem

Adrianna Papell High-Low Mikado Gown with Asymmetric Hem
Credit:

Courtesy of Adrianna Papell

In steamy summer weather, a floor-length, formal frock can feel too heavy and hot during outdoor family photos—and that’s even before you hit the dance floor. Opt for a high-low hemline and a geometric back detail for a lighter-weight (but still sophisticated) gown in a deep navy.

09 of 19

Adrianna Papell One-Shoulder Ruffled Jacquard Sheath Dress

Adrianna Papell One-Shoulder Ruffled Jacquard Sheath Dress
Credit:

Courtesy of David's Bridal

Everywhere you look along this sheath gown, there's a detail worth obsessing over. From the metallic floral jacquard fabric to the cool one-shoulder neckline to the draped ruffle, it's a bold, summery look that feels fun and special.

10 of 19

Betsy & Adam Plus-Size Floral Pleated Split-Sleeve Gown

Betsy & Adam Plus Size Floral Pleated Split-Sleeve Gown
Credit:

Courtesy of Macy's

Creamy shades of blue, aqua, and mint bloom against this softly pleated fabric. The long split sleeves are particularly perfect for breezy seaside affairs, and the V-neckline shows off the perfect sliver of skin.

11 of 19

BHLDN Aurora Puff-Sleeve Taffeta Maxi Dress

BHLDN Aurora Puff-Sleeve Taffeta Maxi Dress
Credit:

Courtesy of BHLDN

The buttery yellow hue of this royal-esque gown isn't just seasonally appropriate—it's currently trending! The A-line silhouette and taffeta fabric feel wholly formal, while other pretty details include puff sleeves and ribbon ties.

12 of 19

Cowl Halter Neckline Floral Print Sheath Dress

David's Bridal Cowl Halter Neckline Floral Print Sheath Dress
Credit:

Courtesy of David's Bridal

Take inspiration from your backyard garden with this full-length dress with a summer-ready pattern. A fitted bodice, halter neckline, and split skirt create a relaxed and youthful shape.

13 of 19

Aidan Mattox Floral Satin Short-Sleeve Gown

Aidan Mattox Floral Satin Short-Sleeve Gown
Credit:

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

Black is chic and stylish in any season—but the addition of some fiery florals and a full ballgown skirt keep this moody-hued frock playful and unexpected for a fancy summer affair.

14 of 19

Zac Posen Tiered Guipure Lace Midi-Dress

Zac Posen Tiered Guipure Lace Midi-Dress
Credit:

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

This sleeveless black dress is anything but basic. Crafted from guipure lace, the skirt features a tiered design that seems made for catching a waterfront breeze —and adding a dose of whimsy to a fancy nighttime occasion.

15 of 19

Kay Unger Giavanna Floral A-Line Midi Dress

Kay Unger Dress
Credit:

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Holy hydrangeas! Choose this structured satin midi-length gown featuring a navy blue hue and floral detailing. The shape, fabric, and length allow this dress to work for an outdoor wedding (it won't drag in the grass, dirt, or sand).

16 of 19

Mac Duggal Floral Embroidered Tulle Gown

Mac Duggal Floral Embroidered Tulle Gown
Credit:

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

A garden full of colorful flowers grows from the ground up on this black sleeveless gown, adding bright orange, cheery yellow, rich red, and pale purples to the A-line skirt.

17 of 19

Sachin & Babi Simone Gown in Charcoal

Sachin & Babi Simone Gown in Charcoal
Credit:

Courtesy of Sachin & Babi

A structured Mikado skirt in a deep steel gray offsets a sparkling deep V-neckline and flowing sleeves—giving a celebratory sparkle to any proud mom.

18 of 19

Oleg Cassini Embroidered A-Line Tank Dress with Chiffon Wrap

Oleg Cassini Embroidered A-Line Tank Dress with Chiffon Wrap
Credit:

Courtesy of David's Bridal

Who doesn't love a two-for-one? This summer mother-of-the-bride dress from Oleg Cassini comes with a matching chiffon wrap to keep you warm in case the night gets chilly. Accessories shopping? Done!

19 of 19

Mac Duggal Sequined Beaded Tulle Gown

Mac Duggal Sequined Beaded Tulle Gown
Credit:

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

There's something about a shimmery mint green that just feels so quintessential summer. This mother-of-the-bride dress option features metallic beading and sequins all along the bodice, short flutter sleeves, and tulle skirt.

Still haven't found a favorite? Sabatino often has the moms she works with bring in a gown they love to have it copied in a more formal fabric.

"We often use inspiration garments that we [glam] up for the wedding because we know she will feel amazing in them," she explains.

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