20 Flattering & Fashionable Plus Size Mother of the Bride Dresses
As the mother of the bride, it’s only right that you’re dressed to impress. These glam and affordable plus size looks are perfect for every dress code and setting
We have included third party products to help you navigate and enjoy life’s biggest moments. Purchases made through links on this page may earn us a commission.
While it used to be that mothers of the bride would match the bridal party by wearing either the same colour or a variation on the palette, there are no hard and fast rules anymore – which can be a blessing for those in search of plus size mother of the bride dresses.
However, if you’re not leaning towards a traditional shift dress and cropped jacket combo, finding the right mother of the bride outfit can still be difficult – particularly when it comes to finding (non-frumpy) brands that offer extended sizing. That's why we’ve done the hard work for you with our edit of the 20 best modern mother of the bride dresses in plus size.
But first thing’s first. If you’ve ever found yourself googling “plus size mother of the bride dresses that hide belly” or something of the like, we’re here to tell you that you’re already wedding ready just way you are and you certainly don’t need to be hiding anything on your daughter’s big day.
Instead of focusing on what you want to hide or disguise, think about what you want to show off. Avoid the idea that statement prints will widen hips or that dark colours should be your go-to, this is your chance to wear something that feels elegant, stylish and which you feel nothing short of amazing in.
Pick a dress that makes you feel fabulous and confident, that offers versatility and can be styled in different ways – and the cost per wear will take care of itself too. Happy shopping!
20 Best Plus Size Mother of the Bride Dresses
From elegant wrap dresses to bold prints and classic cuts with a modern twist, these flattering mother of the bride dresses for plus size women in the UK also work perfectly as mother of the groom outfits!
1. Flounce Cotton Poplin Dress – Marina Rinaldi
For plus size clothing that excites and inspires, look to luxury Italian label Marina Rinaldi. With a strong focus on sophisticated colours and bold prints, Marina Rinaldi is also one of the few places (*eyeroll*) where plus size mothers of the bride can enjoy an in-store shopping experience, carrying up to a size 28 on the rails of its London boutique.
This gorgeous asymmetric dress can be worn both on and off the shoulder thanks to the internal elastic and removable shoulder strap.
- Sizing: 10-28
- Expert take: This dress also comes in black, but the vibrant turquoise would be our colour of choice. Pair with metallic accessories for an elegant, fashion-forward look. Oh, and did we mention she has pockets?
2. Julissa Frill Wrap Midi Dress – Phase Eight
Phase Eight is the master of plus size mother of the bride dresses and this classic wrap dress is one of our all-time favourite styles for summer alfresco nuptials. The antique pink colour, softly layered hem and fluted sleeves exude elegance – an excellent outfit on its own or paired with one of the brand’s peplum jackets.
- Sizing: 6-26
- Expert take: If you usually prefer trousers, why not consider a chic jumpsuit or trouser suit instead? Phase Eight also has a brilliant selection of plus size mother of the bride trouser suits that work for weddings of all seasons and styles.
3. Curve Embellished Maxi Dress – ASOS Design
ASOS continues to lead the charge in fashion-forward plus size pieces and is a great place to start your search for mother of the bride plus size dresses in the UK. This rather luxe, embellished sleeveless dress would look especially chic at an art deco-themed wedding – and every glamorous event thereafter.
- Sizing: 18-30
- Expert take: Forgo too much jewellery and keep your hair and makeup simple: this beautifully beaded fabric provides all the oomph you need.
4. Magnus Dress in Patience – Reformation
Reformation is a fail-safe option for sophisticated occasion wear and has a great selection of mother of the bride appropriate dresses in plus size. Case in point: this stunning fitted floral dress made from a light georgette fabric. The tiered ruffle skirt gives it a romantic twist that’s simply perfect for spring and summer celebrations.
- Sizing: 18-28
- Expert take: If the bride is leaning more towards a green palette, this dress also comes in another gorgeous floral print called Tea Garden that would work all year round.
5. Mavis Midi Dress – Rixo
With their dreamy vintage-inspired prints and luxe fabrics, Rixo’s dresses are as versatile as they are beautiful. We’ve fallen pretty hard for the Mavis dress in Shibori Gold, made from a lightweight crepe de chine fabric that’s been cut on the bias with cute button cuffs, a floaty empire waist and classic, not-too-deep V-neck that’s been meticulously designed to conceal a bra – hurrah!
- Sizing: 6-26
- Expert take: If you love the style but the print doesn’t quite work with the wedding vibe, this dress is also available in two red floral prints, either of which would work perfectly as a wedding dress for the mother of the bride in plus size.
6. Margarita Pleated Velvet Dress – Azazie
We love a velvet moment – but this rich and decadent purple hue is something quite special and would look divine at a black-tie celebration. The flattering style is crafted from a super stretchy velvet fabric, while the beaded embellishment and pleats around the waist draw the eye inwards to accentuate your curves in all the right places. Stunning!
- Sizing: 4-34
- Expert take: Azazie caters up to a size 34 as standard, but you can also take advantage of the retailer’s custom size option if you’re looking for something more tailored.
7. Joanna Hope Ombre Print Dress – Simply Be
The voluminous pleats on this sophisticated dress not only elongate the body by creating vertical lines but they give the dress beautiful movement, too. The belt is detachable, so you can create definition around the waist as much as is comfortable. We love the ombre blue hue, but this style is also available in alternative ombre colourways.
- Sizing: 8-32
- Expert take: Alongside Joanna Hope, check out brands such as Hope & Ivy and Maya Deluxe over on Simply Be for gorgeous occasion wear pieces and plus size mother of the bride dresses.
8. Curve Velvet Embroidered Maxi Dress – ASOS Edition
Another velvet number, and one which we can see fast becoming a staple in your wardrobe long after the wedding’s over. The beauty of this embroidered dress from ASOS is its versatility: you can dress it up with killer heels and statement jewellery for your mother of the bride look or keep it low key with some flat sandals or boots post-wedding.
- Sizing: 18-30
- Expert take: This is also a design that looks just as striking from the back as it does from the front, thanks to the beautiful embroidery. So, consider an up do to show off that luxe detail.
9. Structured Crepe Asymmetric Cape Midi Dress – Karen Millen
Karen Millen is known for its exquisite tailoring and beautifully structured pieces, so spying this asymmetric cape dress within its plus size collection was a very welcome surprise. The modern block panelling makes this style an elegant alternative for those mothers of the bride who feel most comfortable in black and would be especially perfect for a black-tie or winter wedding.
- Sizing: 18-24
- Expert take: This fuss-free style means you could have a lot of fun with your accessories. Stick to black or metallics for an understated look or inject a bold pop of colour with your choice of heels and hat or hair accessory.
10. Lace & Beads Plus Tulle Ruffle Maxi Dress – ASOS
A cut that shows off your décolletage is always a winner, while the voluminous sleeves and ruffles on this floral-print Lace & Beads maxi add a relaxed and playful edge that’s still elegant. We think the bold purple colour pairs great with gold accessories, too.
- Sizing: 18-30
- Expert take: Floor-sweeping maxis like this make a great alternative to plus size mother of the bride trouser suits for those who don’t want to show their legs. This style features shirred panels at the back and on the cuffs for extra comfort.
11. Light Gold Embroidered Tulle Dress – Marina Rinaldi
This fluid tulle dress from Marina Rinaldi is so easy to wear, yet head-turningly striking when worn with mirror-gold sandals and a statement hat or fascinator. It’s crafted from the softest embroidered tulle with a long satin tie at back that deserves to be seen – so consider wearing with a sophisticated up do.
- Sizing: 10-28
- Expert take: Not confident about showing off your arms? This dress comes with long tulle sleeves that can be sewn onto the dress with ease by a seamstress or tailor.
12. Daniela Silk Dress – Reformation
OK, flattering mother of the bride dresses for plus size women in the UK rarely look this good – so we’d run to add this divine Reformation dress to our basket, if we were you. Crafted from lightweight silk charmeuse, the fabulous floor-length style is just the ticket for a black-tie celebration.
- Sizing: 18-28
- Expert take: Navy blue is a great universal shade – not only does it complement all skin types and hair tones, but it’s also a classic colour that doesn’t date and provides a neutral base for other pops of colour you may want to introduce. However, this dress is also available in equally glamorous copper.
13. Joanna Hope Sequin Column Dress – Simply Be
If the bride is happy for you to lean toward a more neutral palette, the shell sequins on this gorgeous ivory coloured midi dress from Joanna Hope will add a touch of drama. Keep the look simple with ivory or gold accessories or liven up with a shot of pink.
- Sizing: 8-26
- Expert take: The great thing about sequin dresses is they don’t have to be a one-hit wonder. The chic midi length and modest neckline mean this dress would work for festive parties, business dress code work dos and any other event that requires a touch of glitz and glamour.
14. Kristina Gold Silk Midi Dress – The Hour
If you haven’t already heard of The Hour, bookmark it immediately. From dresses to knitwear, trouser suits to shirts, this is a label that serves up plus size perfection season after season. The brand has also launched a collection of dresses in collaboration with Liberty that are perfect for mothers of the bride, including this gold silk midi featuring the most spectacular rose, tulip and blossom bouquet print.
- Sizing: 12-28
- Expert take: As with all The Hour pieces, the devil is in the detail with this beautifully made design. The frilled neckline can be drawn together with the contrasting velvet ribbon to create a pretty keyhole effect on the décolletage. Keep the look voluminous or use the included belt to cinch in your waist for more of an hourglass silhouette.
15. Tilly Dress in Olive – Never Fully Dressed
Off-the-shoulder dresses look flattering on everyone, and this gorgeous number from Never Fully Dressed proves it. It comes in the most beautiful array of colours to suit most wedding party palettes, including hot pink, blue and an elegant chocolate hue. But our favourite has to be this recent olive addition.
- Sizing: 6-28
- Expert take: NFD states that this dress style offers a generous fit, so if you’re in between sizes, it recommends sizing down.
16. Annetta Sage Pleated Maxi Dress – Azazie
Another of Azazie’s plus size mother of the bride dresses, this time in a gorgeous sage green. This floor-length style is crafted from a light and comfortable stretch-mesh fabric with flattering pleats on the skirt to draw the eye downwards and floaty chiffon-style sleeves for those who prefer a little extra coverage on the arms.
- Sizing: 4-34
- Expert take: Sage is a colour that works for all seasons and wedding styles – it works particularly well with the deep, rich tones of navy blue (still a firm favourite for groomswear).
17. Floral Print Woven Midaxi Dress – Karen Millen
If you’d prefer to wear print, florals serve as the chicest possible option for mothers of the bride, and you can’t go wrong with this plus size ankle-skimming dress from Karen Millen. The fabric and print works for weddings of all seasons, but especially winter. And we love the wide shoulder straps and flattering square neckline.
- Sizing: 18-24
- Expert take: While we love cotton and linen dresses for comfort, they are prone to creasing throughout the day. The textured woven fabric of this dress will ensure no crumpled outfits in the photos!
18. Holly Velvet Star Wrap Midi Dress – Phase Eight
Glamorous, sparkling and elegant, this plus size mother of the bride dress from Phase Eight is a real head-turner and will look especially great on the dancefloor. Crafted from a luxury velvet fabric, the wrap shape and wide sleeves make this a universally flattering choice, but it’s the all-over embellished star print that makes this a standout style.
- Sizing: 6-26
- Expert take: Note that this dress isn’t available as part of Phase Eight’s petite range, so if you’re on the shorter side and love this style, it might be worth budgeting for alterations.
19. Curve Jacquard Long Sleeve Maxi Dress – ASOS Design
Sometimes the simplest dress styles are the chicest. This long-sleeved jacquard number from ASOS would look fabulous with some statement jewellery and/or headpiece, a stylish clutch and heels. Plus, it’s also the cheapest plus size mother of the bride dress in our edit, leaving more room in the budget for accessories!
- Sizing: 18-30
- Expert take: The draped fabric and fitted waist make this flattering and figure hugging in all the right places, while the jacquard print makes it look much more expensive than it actually is.
20. Coast Angel Sleeve Wrap Midi Dress – Debenhams
The dramatic angel sleeves and flowing skirt on this wrap midi dress from Coast at Debenhams have such beautiful movement, the wedding photographer won’t be able to resist capturing you and the bride together on the dancefloor! The wrap-style bodice cinches in the waist to perfectly show off those curves, too.
- Sizing: 18-26
- Expert take: Style this with strappy metallic heels and a cute clutch for effortless elegance, and check out Coast’s gorgeous selection of fascinators and hair accessories for that fabulous finishing touch.
Where to Buy Plus Size Mother of the Bride Dresses?
While sizes in store might still be limited (sigh…), there are plenty of options for plus size mother of the bride dresses online.
We’d recommend checking out retailers such as ASOS, Karen Millen, Phase Eight, Debenhams, Monsoon and Rixo who all offer extended sizes, as well as independent and designer labels designed specifically for plus size women, including Marina Rinaldi and The Hour.
Now you’ve got the dress sorted, let’s talk shoes! We’ve covered everything from designer wedding shoes to comfy block heels and gorgeous occasion flats – which ones will you go for?
