How Much Should I Budget for a Mother of the Bride Dress?
You want to look and feel amazing on your daughter’s big day—and you absolutely deserve to.
But between the dress itself, alterations, shoes, and accessories (not to mention taxes and possible rush fees), it’s smart to build a realistic budget so there are no surprises.
Below, you’ll find a comprehensive breakdown of mother of the bride (MOB) dress costs in 2025, what drives those costs up or down, the add-ons people often forget, and how to save without sacrificing style. You’ll also find two ready-to-use budget tables: one for the dress itself across price tiers, and one that tallies the all-in look (dress + tailoring + accessories + services).
Typical Budget Ranges
- Value / Off-the-rack:
Great for simpler styles, seasonal sales, and online-only labels. Many inclusive online brands (for example, those offering FREE swatches and home try-on programs) keep mother-of-the-bride dresses affordable without skimping on style. - Mid-range specialty retailers:
Expect higher-quality fabrics (crepe, chiffon, mikado blends), a broader size range (including plus size and petite), and optional custom sizing or colorways—often with no or low upcharge at inclusive retailers. - Premium/designer ready-to-wear:
Designer names, unique embellishments, and luxe textiles. Ideal for black-tie or when you want a fashion-forward statement piece. - Couture or made-to-measure:
Bespoke design, premium fabrics, significant handwork. Best for formal soirées or when you want something truly one-of-a-kind.
Good to know: Pricing varies by market. Major metros and peak wedding months (May–June, September–October) can raise both dress and alteration costs by 10–20%.
Inclusive e-commerce retailers—like those offering dedicated Mother of the Bride and Plus-Size Mother of the Bride ranges—often have competitive base prices and inclusive size options, which can help you stay on budget.
What Drives the Price Up (or Down)
Understanding the “why” behind the numbers helps you budget with confidence:
1) Fabric & Construction
- Chiffon, Georgette: Lightweight, airy, great for warm weather and garden/afternoon ceremonies; typically more affordable.
- Crepe (including stretch crepe): Smooth, lightly structured; mid-range to premium; comfortable and camera-friendly.
- Satin (matte or glossy): Classic, formal, and luxe; prices range from mid-range to premium depending on fiber content (poly vs. silk).
- Mikado / Duchess satin: Heavier, sculptural, and elegant for black-tie or winter weddings; usually higher priced.
- Lace: Adds texture and romance; cost varies with type (corded, Chantilly, beaded); intricate handwork increases price.
- Velvet or Brocade: Rich texture and warmth—excellent for winter; usually mid-to-premium.
2) Silhouette & Design Complexity
- Simple A-line or sheath: Fewer seams and minimal embellishment lower the cost and make alterations easier.
- Mermaid/fit-and-flare with corsetry or boning: More complex to construct, usually pricier.
- Detachable sleeves/capes/overskirts: Add versatility (two looks in one) but can add $50–$300 to the garment cost.
3) Size, Length & Customization
- Plus-size & petite: Some brands price all sizes the same (a budget blessing), while others add small surcharges for extended sizes.
- Custom sizing/length: Some retailers include it at no extra cost; others charge $10–$80+. Choosing the correct length option (regular, petite, tall) can save on hemming.
4) Brand & Retail Channel
- Online specialty brands (e.g., Azazie-style pricing) often sit in the $120–$350 sweet spot for MOB dresses and offer perks like free swatches and home try-on programs—great for locking in value and fit.
- Department store & boutique labels span $150–$800, with in-store try-ons and on-site tailoring (often at extra cost).
- Designer/atelier pieces command higher prices for signature designs, custom fabrics, and hand finishing.
Mother-of-the-Bride Dress Price Tiers (With Examples & What to Expect)
| Budget Tier | Typical Dress Price (USD) | What You Get | Best For |
| Value | $120–$300 | Polyester chiffon/crepe; simple silhouettes; limited embellishment; standard sizes; great for online buys and sales. | Daytime garden weddings, courthouse ceremonies, or when you want a beautiful dress without overspending. |
| Mid-Range | $300–$600 | Better fabrics (stretch crepe/mikado), more color/size options (often plus-size inclusive), some hand-beading or lace. | Most mother-of-the-bride needs; semi-formal to formal events; versatile price–quality sweet spot. |
| Premium | $600–$1,200+ | Designer labels, unique details (3D florals, fine lace), rich textiles, and more precise tailoring. | Black-tie evenings, standout fashion moments, or heirloom-worthy pieces. |
| Couture / Made-to-Measure | $1,500–$4,000+ | Bespoke design, high-end silks, custom fit and finishes, multiple fittings. | High-formality weddings; distinctive, personalized gowns; heirloom garments. |
Note: This table reflects typical U.S. pricing in 2025. If you’re working with a specific retailer (especially one that already offers Mother of the Bride Dresses and Plus Size
Mother of the Bride & Groom categories and FREE Swatches), check current ranges on their site and align your budget accordingly. Many of these retailers sit squarely in the Value to Mid-Range tiers for MOB styles, with some premium options available.
Don’t Forget the Add-Ons (A Realistic “All-In” Budget)
Mother-of-the-bride outfits are about more than the dress. Plan for alterations, underpinnings, accessories, and day-of services.
Typical Add-On Cost Ranges
- Alterations: $80–$300+
Hemming ($60–$150), taking in/out bodice ($45–$150), adding bust cups ($20–$50), sleeve adjustments ($30–$90), adding a modesty panel ($25–$75). Heavily beaded lace or complex silhouettes (mermaid, corseted) cost more. - Shapewear & Foundations: $30–$120
Strapless bras, smoothing slips, or shapewear bodysuits can change the fit—budget for the right support. - Shoes: $60–$180
Comfortable block heels or dressy flats; consider a backup pair for dancing. - Accessories: $50–$250
Includes earrings, bracelets, clutch, evening wrap/shawl, hair accessories (pins, combs), and a light jacket/bolero if needed. - Steaming/Pressing: $30–$100
Boutique pressing or a professional steaming service (especially for chiffon, satin, or lace) is worth budgeting for crisp photos. - Rush Fees or Shipping: $20–$150+
If you’re ordering close to the event date, allow for rush production or expedited shipping charges. Some online retailers offer free standard shipping or paid rush options—factor these into your timeline. - Cleaning/Preservation (Post-event): $60–$200+
If you plan to keep or sell your dress afterward, budget for professional cleaning and optional preservation boxing.
Sample All-In Budget Worksheet
Use (or copy/paste) this template to build your own budget.
| Line Item | Value Tier | Mid-Range | Premium |
| Dress (MOB) | $150–$300 | $300–$600 | $600–$1,200+ |
| Alterations | $100–$200 | $150–$300 | $250–$500+ |
| Shapewear/Foundations | $30–$80 | $50–$120 | $80–$150 |
| Shoes | $60–$120 | $80–$150 | $120–$250 |
| Jewelry/Accessories | $50–$150 | $100–$250 | $150–$400+ |
| Wrap/Jacket (optional) | $30–$100 | $60–$200 | $100–$300 |
| Steaming/Pressing | $30–$80 | $50–$100 | $60–$120 |
| Shipping/Rush (if needed) | $20–$60 | $40–$120 | $60–$150 |
| Estimated Total | $440–$990 | $780–$1,820 | $1,810–$3,620+ |
Spotlight on Popular MOB Fabrics (Cost, Comfort & Use Cases)
| Fabric | Feel & Look | Best For | Notes |
| Chiffon | Floaty, airy, soft drape | Spring/Summer, garden & beach weddings | Light, elegant; may need multiple layers or lining; wrinkles steam out easily. |
| Georgette | Slightly textured, fluid | Warm weather; movement | A touch more structure than chiffon; flattering on many figures. |
| Satin (incl. matte satin) | Smooth, refined sheen | Evening/black-tie, formal settings | Choose weight wisely; heavier weaves feel luxe and photograph beautifully. |
| Mikado/Duchess | Crisp, sculptural, substantial | Black-tie, winter weddings | Holds shape well; may feel warmer; superb for clean A-line or fit-and-flare. |
| Lace | Romantic texture | Garden, church, classic venues | Corded or beaded lace cost more and need careful tailoring. |
| Velvet | Plush, warm, luxe | Winter or evening events | Opt for quality pile; pair with simple accessories. |
| Stretch Crepe | Smooth, comfortable, modern | All seasons; versatile & flattering | Great for streamlined silhouettes and minimal seams. |
Ways to Save (Without Sacrificing Style)
- Shop in the right season.
Early spring and late summer often bring promotions ahead of peak wedding weekends. - Use sample sales & online value leaders.
Many reputable e-commerce retailers (including those with a dedicated Mother of the Bride section and FREE swatches) offer mid-priced styles that look luxe—often $120–$350. - Leverage custom sizing.
If offered at little or no extra cost, custom sizing can eliminate costly hemming and major take-ins later. - Choose smart silhouettes.
A-line and tea-length are easier and cheaper to alter than heavily boned mermaids or gowns with complex beading. - Buy accessories strategically.
Let your dress be the statement; add one or two elegant pieces (pearl earrings, satin clutch) to keep costs down. - Skip the “plus-size premium.”
Many inclusive brands price plus sizes the same as standard—verify before you buy to avoid unnecessary upcharges. - Plan for shipping & steaming.
Take advantage of home try-on programs and factor in professional steaming (especially for delicate fabrics).
Alterations: What to Budget
Alterations can be the difference between “nice” and “nailed it.” Plan early and ask for estimates.
- Hemming: $60–$150 (more for multiple layers or horsehair trim).
- Taking in/letting out bodice: $45–$150 depending on structure.
- Adding cups/boning: $20–$80.
- Sleeve adjustments: $30–$90.
- Adding/modifying sleeves or straps: $50–$200.
- Bustle creation: $20–$60.
- Pressing/steaming: $30–$100.
Alteration costs in peak months (May–June, Sept–Oct) can rise due to demand. Book your appointment as soon as your dress arrives—ideally 8–10 weeks before the wedding—with a final check 1–2 weeks out.
Budgeting for “The Whole Look”
Don’t forget the finishing touches that make your outfit feel complete. Plan for:
- Shapewear & undergarments: $30–$120
- Shoes: $60–$180
- Accessories (jewelry, clutch, wrap): $50–$250
- Beauty (hair & makeup): $100–$350*
- Nails & brows (optional): $30–$100
- Post-event cleaning/preservation: $60–$200+
*Salon prices vary widely by city. Ask the couple if there’s a stylist booked for the wedding party—group packages can save you money.
Example Budgets (All-In Scenarios)
1) Value-Savvy Garden Wedding (Daytime)
- Dress: $220 (chiffon tea-length, georgette overlay)
- Alterations: $120 (hem + small bust adjustment)
- Shapewear & bra: $60
- Shoes: $90
- Accessories & wrap: $100
- Steaming: $40
- Taxes/Shipping: $40
- Estimate: $630 (range $500–$800)
2) Mid-Range Semi-Formal (Hotel or Country Club)
- Dress: $450 (stretch crepe A-line, soft beading)
- Alterations: $180 (hem + waist/hip tweak + bustle)
- Shapewear & bra: $90
- Shoes: $130
- Accessories: $150
- Steaming: $60
- Taxes/Shipping/Rush cushion: $80
- Estimate: $1,000 (range $800–$1,300)
3) Black-Tie / Winter Formal
- Dress: $850 (mikado or velvet, structured silhouette)
- Alterations: $300 (sleeves + bodice shaping + hem + steaming)
- Shapewear & hosiery: $120
- Shoes: $160
- Accessories (elegant jewelry + wrap): $250
- Post-event cleaning: $120
- Estimate: $1,800 (range $1,400–$2,400+)
Pro move: Build in a 10–15% contingency for last-minute tailoring tweaks or upgraded accessories (e.g., switching to a block heel for comfort).
Fabric-Specific Guidance for MOB Comfort & Cost
- Chiffon/Georgette (Budget to Mid-range):
Ideal for warm weather; flows beautifully in photos. Plan for lining and a quality pressing before the event to remove wrinkles. Hemming is straightforward (and cheaper) than heavy fabrics. - Crepe (Mid-range):
A favorite for mothers—it skims rather than clings and works year-round. Expect moderate alterations costs. Choose a weight that drapes well but still feels supportive. - Satin & Mikado (Mid-range to Premium):
Excellent for black-tie. Heftier weaves cost more but photograph exquisitely and offer structure (great for A-line and fit-and-flare). Ensure your supports (bra/cups) are comfortable for hours. - Lace (Varied):
Lace overlays can elevate even a budget dress. Heavily beaded lace adds cost and may increase tailoring time—budget for a specialist seamstress. - Velvet (Mid-range to Premium):
Perfect for winter, rich and warm. Expect higher steaming costs; keep jewelry refined to let the fabric shine.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I spend on a mother-of-the-bride dress?
Many moms spend $150–$600 on the dress itself, with premium designer options ranging $600–$1,200+. Add alterations, shoes, accessories, and services, and an all-in budget often lands between $600 and $1,500, depending on formality and preferences.
Are plus-size MOB dresses more expensive?
It depends on the retailer. Some charge the same price across sizes, which is great for budgeting; others add a modest surcharge for extended sizes. Check policies before ordering.
What will I spend on alterations?
Plan for $100–$300+. Complex silhouettes (mermaid, heavy beading, corsetry, long sleeves) and special requests (adding sleeves, custom modesty panels) cost more.
Is it cheaper to rent a MOB dress?
Rentals can run $60–$180+ for 4–8 days with optional insurance. A great option if you want a designer look for less and don’t plan to re-wear. Note: availability in classic MOB silhouettes varies; factor in shipping/cleaning and fit timing.
When should I buy and budget?
For made-to-order or custom sizes, shop 3–6 months out (earlier in peak seasons). For off-the-rack, you can buy closer to the date, but you’ll still need time for alterations. Build in 2–3 weeks for tailoring and 1–2 weeks for steaming and try-ons.
What about shoes, shawls, and jewelry?
Budget $150–$350 across accessories. Let the dress be the star—choose one or two accents (pearl earrings, a satin clutch, a winter wrap).
Can I keep costs down without looking “budget”?
Yes. Choose mid-range fabrics (like crepe), opt for custom sizing when available (often free at inclusive online retailers), and shop sales. Use FREE swatch programs to pick the perfect color and texture before ordering. Limit heavy beading if you need to keep alteration costs in check.
A Final Word
A mother-of-the-bride dress is more than an outfit—it’s a keepsake of a beautiful milestone. By grounding your choice in the where/when, your comfort, and the level of formality, you’ll narrow the field fast.
From value-friendly chiffon numbers to premium mikado showstoppers, there’s a perfect-fit option for every taste and budget—especially with today’s inclusive online retailers offering Mother of the Bride and Plus Size collections, FREE swatches, and home try-on programs.
Build your budget with dress + alterations + accessories + services, add a small contingency, and you’ll glide into the big day feeling confident, comfortable, and completely yourself.