Attending a wedding is a cherished moment we mark on our calendars, but for the mother of the bride (or mother of the groom), it’s truly a pinnacle of joy. On a day of radiance and celebration, your outfit should mirror the happiness within. Yet, amidst the plethora of options for mother-of-the-bride dresses, the task can seem as daunting as planning the wedding itself.

Luckily, you don’t have to navigate the process alone. We’ve scoured the online racks at Nordstrom—one of the best places for special occasion outfits—for the best mother-of-the-bride dresses to wear on this special day. Different lengths, fabrics, and accents (florals, glitter, and bows galore) all made the list, so no matter your preference, there’s something you’re sure to love. Explore our top 10 mother-of-the-bride dresses at Nordstrom at every price point and effortlessly check off one pre-wedding task from your list, sans stress.

The best Nordstrom mother-of-the-bride dresses, at a glance:

• Best under $200: Alex Evenings, Embellished Cold Shoulder Column Evening Gown, $169
• Best under $300: Adrianna Papell, Beaded Jersey & Chiffon Faux Wrap Gown, $229
• Best under $400: Mac Duggal, Floral Embellished Long Sleeve Midi Cocktail Dress, $398
• Best under $500: Mac Duggal, Beaded Stripe Midi Dress, $498

Shop the best mother-of-the-bride dresses at Nordstrom

Under $200

Alex Evenings, Embellished Cold Shoulder Column Evening Gown — $169.00

Available sizes: 6-18

Embrace understated elegance in this column evening gown, a sophisticated choice that won’t break the bank. The sleek silhouette showcases tasteful shoulder cutouts adorned with shimmering embellishments, striking the perfect balance between minimalist and glamorous. Other thoughtful touches ruched side detailing and a split hem finished with a bit of sparkle.

Material: 100% polyester

Colors: 1

Pros:

• Gorgeous off-the-shoulder silhouette
• Beautiful accents and details throughout
• Single color fabric makes accessorizing easier
• Affordable

Cons:

• Only one color available
• Limited sizes available

Eliza J, Floral Capelet Overlay Cocktail Dress — $188.00

Available sizes: 0-18

One look at this dress has us dreaming of salty breezes, blooming hydrangeas, and twinkling lights. The ethereal capelet overlay, adorned with delicate floral patterns, adds a beachy flair to its classic silhouette. Though it’s more drapey, you’ll still have shape (at your own control, too) thanks to the waist tie. And this dress features everyone’s favorite feature: pockets.

Material: 100% Polyester

Colors: 1

Pros:

• Drapey and flowy
• Fluttery sleeves add a feminine touch
• Pockets in the sides
• Tie belt for extra fit customization and shape
• Vibrant, beautiful color

Cons:

• Only one color and pattern available
• Relatively limited sizes available

Adrianna Papell, Side Tie One-Shoulder Gown — $199.00

Available sizes: 4-18

Love the periwinkle shade, but not into florals or patterns? Consider this slightly sexier (still super classy and elegant) one-shoulder gown. With a flutter sleeve, layered skirt, and ties at the side, you’ll love the details this dress offers. If you’re planning to bust a move on the dance floor, or the wedding is taking place in the summer, the side vent offers breathability to keep you comfortable.

Material: 97% polyester, 3% elastane

Colors: 1

Pros:

• Lined, so you won’t have to worry about the dress being see-through
• Side tie detail
• Breathable thanks to slit and side vent
• Feminine touches throughout the gown

Cons:

• Only one color and pattern available
• Relatively limited sizes available

Betsy & Adam, Cape Sleeve Crepe Sheath Dress — $199.00

Available sizes: 2-16

A dress without glitter or bold patterns can still feel dramatic and draw the eye. This cocktail dress is made with a stretchy crepe fabric that’s flexible as you move. But it’s also highly fashionable: cape sleeves and an asymmetrically draped silhouette bring a classy, effortlessly stylish energy to the entire ensemble.

Material: 94% polyester, 6% spandex

Colors: 4

Pros:

• Multiple colors available
• Hidden back-zip closure doesn’t distract from the silhouette
• V-neckline on the back of the dress adds flair
• Reviewers rave about the quality of this dress for the price point

Cons:

• Limited sizes available, and some reviewers found it to be cut small

Under $300

Adrianna Papell, Beaded Jersey & Chiffon Faux Wrap Gown — $229.00

Available sizes: 2-10

Let’s face it: some of us just love a little (or long!) black dress. This pick balances out the darkness with accents of glittering gold beading that catch the light in a beautiful way. It also has a wrap-inspired silhouette with flirty, feminine flutter sleeves and a slight V-neckline that zhouz it up the right amount.

Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex with 100% polyester contrast

Colors: 1

Pros:

• Balanced black dress with pops of gold beading
• Leg slit is just the right length
• Fluttery chiffon sleeves are ultra feminine

Cons:

• No size-inclusive options
• Spot-clean only

Pisarro Nights, Beaded Mesh Gown With Jacket — $268.00

Available sizes: 2-18

Make a stunning entrance at your daughter’s wedding with the Pisarro Nights Beaded Mesh Gown with Jacket. The breathtaking gown features a mesmerizing display of shimmering beads and sequins on delicate mesh fabric, creating a captivating aura of elegance. Paired with the matching jacket embellished with coordinating beadwork, it offers versatility and style.

Material: 100% nylon

Colors: 4

Pros:

• Multiple colors available
• Beautiful beadwork
• Matching jacket for layering
• Lined fabric

Cons:

• Limited sizes available

Under $400

Mac Duggal, Floral Embellished Long Sleeve Midi Cocktail Dress — $398.00

Available sizes: 4-24

For a glittery option, consider this beautiful gold midi dress. It has shimmering flowers along the bottom hemline, and a line of gold beading accents the waistline. This would be a perfect dress for a springtime wedding, but there’s also a darker shade available that would look stunning at night or in the winter.

Material: 100% polyester

Colors: 2

Pros:

• Wide variety of sizes available
• Light and dark color available (gold or midnight blue)
• Gorgeous sparkle draws the eye
• Lined, except sleeves

Cons:

• Spot-clean only

Mac Duggal, Off the Shoulder Beaded Chiffon Midi Dress — $398.00

Available sizes: 2-14

This dress captures the essence of old Hollywood glamor. The sweetheart neckline and off-the-shoulder silhouette are both feminine and flirty, and the chiffon tulle layer adds an ethereal quality to the look. The dress is solid black with pearly, golden beads scattered throughout the bodice and skirt.

Material: 100% polyester

Colors: 1

Pros:

• Pretty sweetheart neckline
• Off-the-shoulder fit and cap sleeves
• Lined, except sleeves
• Classy and glamorous Hollywood vibes

Cons:

• Shorter women might need to have the dress tailored
• Spot-clean only

Under $500

Mac Duggal, Beaded Stripe Midi Dress — $498.00

Available sizes: 8-22

Adorned with intricate beaded stripes, this dress exudes a luxurious allure that catches the light with every step. The mid-length silhouette offers a refined and graceful aesthetic, while the subtle V-neckline adds a touch of allure. Whether dancing under the stars or mingling with guests, this dress is sure to make a statement, ensuring the mother-of-the-bride shines as brightly as her daughter on this joyous occasion.

Material: 100% Polyester

Colors: 1

Pros:

• Hidden back-zip closure
• Midi length and ¾ sleeves
• Lined
• Flowy, semi-sheer sleeves
• Beautiful beaded stripes throughout

Cons:

• No petite and limited smaller sizes available
• Spot-clean only

Mac Duggal, Floral Rosette Halter Neck Gown — $498.00

Available sizes: 6-16

Springtime, meet the epitome of floral mother-of-the-bride dresses at Nordstrom. This floral rosette gown features a halter neckline that would be gorgeous with an updo. It has an open back, which is really enchanting, but the rest of the dress has coverage since it’s a full-length gown. The fabric features blooms in vibrant colors, and the rosette detail on the neckline completes the floral, feminine feel.

Material: 100% polyester

Colors: 1

Pros:

• Vibrant, beautiful colors throughout
• Halter neckline is perfect for an updo hairstyle
• Lined for coverage
• Rosette at neckline completes floral motif

Cons:

• Somewhat limited sizes available
• Spot-clean only

What to look for in a mother-of-the-bride dress

There are lots of factors to consider before you launch into your own “Say Yes To The Dress”-style montage to find the perfect dress, including:

Color

If the bride- or groom-to-be has already decided on a color palette for the wedding party, they might have a specific shade in mind for your dress, too. And if they don’t, there are some other factors to consider. When is the wedding taking place? A spring wedding might have a different color palette and feel than a fall or winter wedding. What colors do you feel your best in? Maybe you love black but want to branch out into a pastel or something bright. Maybe you can’t wait to step onto the dance floor at the reception with a dash of glitter and sparkle on your gown. Color is a great place to start when shopping for your mother-of-the-bride (or mother-of-the-groom) dress.

Budget

Next, consider your budget. How much are you able (and happy) to spend on this dress? Consider whether you’ll be able to wear the dress for any other occasion in your life, too; re-wearing it is a great way to make the splurge of a nicer piece feel worth opposed to retiring it to the back of your closet when the wedding is over. And, of course, don’t feel pressured to pick a more expensive dress if you find one you love at a lower price point. All that matters is that your dress makes you feel amazing!

Fit + style

What length do you prefer: cocktail, midi, or a full-length gown? What about the shoulders and neckline—is an on-the-shoulder or off-the-shoulder gown better? There are no wrong answers here, as long as you choose a style that makes you feel confident and comfortable.