14 Plus Size Mother Of The Bride Dresses With Sleeves To Flatter Every Figure
Whether you’re a marvelously modern mom or a traditional matron who loves to keep things classy, no doubt you want to look beautiful for your daughter’s big day. If you’ve settled on a dress with sleeves, we’re here to show you a wide range of gorgeous gowns of various styles and colors.
If you ask us, sleeves undoubtedly bring extra drama to a dress. There are illusion sleeves that make a gown simply stunning, butterfly sleeves that add a bit of flair to a frock, caplets that offer chic coverage, and many more. Move over pockets because sleeves might just be the trendiest new feature on dresses!
How to Choose a Dress with Sleeves
Before we’re up to our shoulders in sleeved gowns, here’s what to consider when shopping for a plus-size mother of the Bride dress with sleeves. We should also add that in many cultures, the bride buys her mother (or future mother-in-law) a dress as a thank-you gift for being part of the big day. If that’s the case, coordinate the decision with the bride in advance.
- Consider the season. Sleeves can be great for extra warmth. However, if you’re on a beach in August, you might prefer the breeze on (mostly) bare arms, making a shorter sleeve more suitable.
- Choose your style. Sleeves don’t come in one design; you could choose a statement sleeve, such as a Juliet or Bishop sleeve.
- Complement the Bridal Party. Consider how your outfit works with the bridal party, especially for photos. It may not look appealing if you’re in a long sleeve velvet gown while everyone else is in a summery, chiffon dress.
- Try various styles. You may discover that those lace sleeves you adore are a touch itchy or that you’re impressed with how toned the cap sleeves make your shoulders look! Don’t be afraid to try out different sleeve styles before committing.
If you don’t know where to start and need additional help with assembling the perfect mother-of-the-bride look, check out our mother-of-the-bride dress code guide, where we talk about dress code formality, where to buy gowns, etc.
Now, back to the sleeves! Ready to undertake the most simple sleeve search ever? We’ve made things easy for you by selecting fourteen of the best plus-size mother-of-the-bride dresses with sleeves!
14 Plus Size Mother-of-the-Bride Dresses
Slip into one of these sleeved gowns for an exquisite look on your child’s wedding day.
- Retro Chic Adina Dress
- Ryland Velvet Maxi Dress
- Sequin A-Line Simone Dress
- Velvet and Lace Dress
- Off-The-Shoulder Maxi Dress
- Flowy Cinched-Waist Drew Dress
- ¾ Lace Sleeve Messi Dress
- Belted V Neck Dress
- High Slit Velvet Petulia Dress
- Ruched Mermaid Greta Dress
- Short Livie Lace Dress
- Knee-Length Velvet Madge Dress
- Chiffon A-Line Averie Dress
- Strapless Sleeve Paeony Dress
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4.7If you like the look of sleeves but don’t always love how they feel, this elegant gown is your go-to. Its fluttery capelet provides coverage for your shoulders and upper arms without constriction. Underneath, the sleeveless gown keeps you feeling cool and comfortable.
Combined with the sophisticated chiffon A-line skirt, it has a romantic vintage look. Hugging your curves, but again, without constriction. Feel free to dance the night away in this flattering-sleeved gown!
Get it from AW BridalWhy I like it:- Capelet adds the illusion of sleeves
- Breathable and comfortable
- Lovely retro look
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5.0Sleek and sophisticated, this dress positively flatters the figure. Luxurious velvet hugs your every curve and enrobes your arms in shimmering comfort. A timeless V-neck add’s a dash of sultry to the ensemble.
We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the best feature of this gown, the plunging back. This daring feature contrasts with the floor-skimming skirt and long sleeves exceptionally well. Snap on the removable strap for security while dancing!
Get it from Jenny YooWhy I like it:- Velvet shines in the light
- V-neck and back contrast with sleeves
- Removable strap for security
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4.7Shine like a star in this ethereal ensemble. It would dazzle in a winter wonderland wedding or an evening rooftop affair. Full coverage and support have never looked so good, thanks to the shimmer of the sequin fabric.
A traditional A-line design and a modest Bateau neckline offer a formal and flattering fit for any mother-of-the-bride. The ¾ sleeves are so versatile that they work well in almost any season or setting. It's just such a beautiful dress. We love it!
Get it from AW BridalWhy I like it:- Versatile ¾ sleeves
- Modest yet flattering
- Elegant shimmering sequins
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5.0Two of our favorite dress elements combine to form a striking, classic, and chic gown. A velvet bodice up top, complete with ¾ length sleeves, adds femininity and timeless appeal.
But it gorgeously contrasts with the lace skirt below, crafted from a sheer, floor-skimming overlay. The two marry in the middle with a flattering empire waist. It’s enchanting and romantic, especially in statement-making onyx!
Get it from David's BridalWhy I like it:- Contrasting textures
- The perfect mix of classic and modern
- Empire waist is flattering for plus-size figures
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4.4You’ll have no problem going in for a hug after a hug on your daughter’s big day, courtesy of this darling off-the-shoulder gown. Swathes of creamy soft silk form the single-shoulder gown, column skirt, and elegant half sleeves.
The tucked waist provides excellent definition while still accentuating your curves. We love the graceful movement of this dress, and we’re sure you’ll adore its gentle draping that looks refined and understated.
Get it from BHLDNWhy I like it:- Understated and elegant
- Unique one-shoulder design
- Easy to move in
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4.5Look no further if you dream of appearing as a regal Greek goddess! Ethereal chiffon is breezy and beautiful, making for graceful movement as you walk. Soft pleats flatter and draw the eye downwards in a caftan style, creating a lovely silhouette.
The sleeves can be as long or as short as you want, making the gown a versatile wonder! Sparkling crystal embellishments adorn the waist and shoulders, elevating the dress from casual to formal (yet comfortable).
Get it from AZAZIEWhy I like it:- Adjustable sleeves
- One-of-a-kind caftan design
- Cool and breezy for warm weather
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5.0The standard mother-of-the-bride dress gets a charming upgrade with sequined lace, becoming a modern MOB gown! You’re familiar with this dress’s A-line, floor-skimming silhouette, crafted from luminous glitter mesh. A comfortable and chic V-neckline modestly shows off your decolletage.
But the upper portion of the dress kicks things up a notch. Illusion ¾ sleeves are adorned with sequin floral patterns for a rockstar look that will turn heads. Stand out in the wedding party with this beauty.
Get it from AW BridalWhy I like it:- Intriguing illusion sleeves
- Classic features
- Traditional yet alternative
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5.0Sometimes, you want a staple piece that looks good on your curves. This dress is just that. Its soft pleats and gathered V-neck are enchanting but familiar, giving you confidence on the big day.
Lovely asymmetrical sleeves in sheer chiffon are loose and breezy, perfect for warmer weddings. A glamorous beaded design along the waist cinches in your figure for an hourglass silhouette. It’s a dress we’re willing to bet will be worn again and again long after the big day has passed.
Get it from TBDRESSWhy I like it:- Familiar features for comfort and confidence
- Cool and breathable chiffon
- The beaded waist accentuates the figure
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5.0This dress is positively exquisite! We feel like it should be worn in the halls of the manners of Bridgerton or Downtown Abbey. It’s so regal. Lux velvet provides a glamorous sheen and a form-fitting silhouette. A high neck is created with lace embellishments for a vintage look.
But it’s not stuffy or too traditional. Just look at the feminine V neckline or thigh-high slit in the skirt. This dress is a must for a mother-of-the-bride who wants to push the boundaries of matronly attire.
Get it from AW BridalWhy I like it:- A mix of vintage and modern
- Move freely with a slit skirt
- Loose elbow sleeves aren’t too constricting
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4.5We’re head over heels for this dress designed for upscale and sophisticated soirees. Is there anything better than full-length sleeves that offer coverage without being too warm or constricting? Breathable mesh is the solution, and it looks positively elegant with a subtle flair at the wrist. It's a formal dress perfect for a classic wedding theme.
Silky smooth fabric with a pleasant sheen forms the feminine bodice and mermaid skirt. Graceful ruching helps to conceal the midsection and finishes with a glamorous crystal embellishment at the hip.
Get it from AZAZIEWhy I like it:- Ideal for formal weddings
- Mesh sleeves provide breathable coverage
- Flattering ruching on the bodice
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5.0Going to a seaside ceremony? Or maybe a garden wedding get-together? Consider this lace frock that is feminine, fun, and just a touch formal. Flounced sleeves and a knee-length skirt make this dress feel flirty and relaxed.
Full lace over a satin sleeveless gown helps the gown to feel more sophisticated and refined, in case you want to dress it up with your accessories and hairstyle. With a simple silhouette and delicate features, you’ll love slipping into this easy-to-wear gown.
Get it from David's BridalWhy I like it:- The short length is perfect for warm weddings
- All-over lace adds visual intrigue
- Flounced sleeve and skirt for a feminine look
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5.0You will be the epitome of class in this demure gown. It all starts with a simple mermaid silhouette that hugs the curves and gently flairs at the knee. Crafted in luxurious velvet that shimmers in the light.
Add butterfly sleeves, clever stitching for structure, and a dainty jeweled belt, and you have the picture of perfection. It’s an outdoor wedding style done right, mixing all-day comfort and impossible chicness.
Get it from AW BridalWhy I like it:- Shorter length for moveability and comfort
- Soft but structured
- Ethereal butterfly sleeves
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5.0Dare to be different with this darling peplum dress that appears as two separate pieces but is really one comfortable gown. An A-line chiffon skirt is roomy, breathable, and delicate. It’s paired with a lace overlay in a peplum style.
We love how it flairs at the waist, giving it a feminine vibe. The lace continues to form scalloped ¾ sleeves that mirror the peplum detail. Then, the entire top was beaded for some extra sparkle. It’s a solid choice for any classic mother-of-the-bride.
Get it from AZAZIEWhy I like it:- Unique peplum detail
- Appears as a trendy two-piece
- Beaded for extra sparkle
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5.0Fresh and modern, alternative mother-of-the-brides won’t be able to slip into this frock fast enough. The structured, column knee-length skirt is modest and traditional, but a neat little slit adds an in-vogue appeal.
Full-length sleeves are equally as classic but embellished with trendy details. They have darling cuffs that contrast with the cut-out that runs nearly the full length of the arm on the inside. This striking detail is further highlighted by feminine pearls that dot the neckline and trail down both sleeves. This dress is graceful, fresh, and charming and has all the attributes a modern mom adores.
Get it from AW BridalWhy I like it:- Jewel studded neckline and sleeves
- Eye-catching cut out
- Clean & neat structured silhouette
FAQ
Because sleeves aren’t the standard for formal gowns, you may find yourself wondering the following questions.
Do Some Dresses Come With Detachable Sleeves?
While there may be dresses with detachable sleeves, this is even more uncommon than regular sleeves. However, certain styles, like off-the-shoulder, can be very versatile in their positioning. You can sometimes wear them as cap sleeves or off-the-shoulder for a no-sleeved look.
Should You Wear Shoulder Pads With Sleeves?
Thankfully, many of today’s designers create dresses that are effortless to wear. This means they take into account whether or not a gown will need shoulder pads. Chances are, if your dress didn’t come with shoulder pads, you wouldn’t need them.
What Is the Most Comfortable Long Sleeve Dress Material?
It depends on the season in which you are wearing your gown. Rich velvet is warm and perfect for winter weddings. Alternatively, chiffon is light and breathable, excellent for beachfront ceremonies. It also depends on how you want your sleeves to feel.
Some fabrics may not have as much stretch, making them feel more structured and secure as opposed to flowy and loose.
Are Sleeve Dresses Too Hot for Summer?
Sleeve dresses aren’t too hot for summer as long as you choose wisely! Opt for sheer or lace sleeves that allow airflow. Or, go with a cap or half sleeves that still leave a portion of your arm exposed for breathability and coolness.
Just because it is summer doesn’t mean you have to bare your arms in a sleeveless gown. In fact, regardless of the season, we always recommend getting a matching jacket just in case.
Say Yes to Sleeves!
We’re so excited the sleeve trend is gaining momentum. Sleeves can add visual interest to a dress and can be the perfect backdrop for embellishments or unique fabrics. Plus, sometimes we don’t want to show off our arms, and sleeves are the ideal fashion accessory to help us feel confident, comfortable, and beautiful.
Whether you’re looking for short, long, or something in between, we hope you found the perfect sleeved mother-of-the-bride wedding dress for your daughter’s special day.
Now that you’ve picked the perfect mother-of-the-bride dress with sleeves, the next step is to prepare a speech. If you need help, check out our guide on delivering a memorable mother-of-the-bride speech, with tips and examples.
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