11 Halter Mother of the Bride or Groom Dresses for Every Celebration

By
Rachel Varina
Rachel Varina
Rachel Varina

Rachel Varina is a full-time freelancer with over 10 years of editorial experience and six years of experience in the wedding industry. Her work has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Elite Daily, Betches, Zola, and more.

Brides's Editorial Guidelines
Published on 02/23/22 05:00PM
PHOTO BY ASHLEY LUDAESCHER PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY ASHLEY LUDAESCHER PHOTOGRAPHY

There are a few moments more wonderful than watching your child say “I do” to the love of their life. And a celebration so special calls for a look that’s just as exquisite. While shopping for the perfect mother of the bride or mother of the groom dress, however, you might feel overwhelmed by the choices. With so many styles out there, it can be hard to narrow down your options. That’s why starting with your ideal neckline—such as a halter—is a stress-free way to find your best occasion look. 

The classic halter neckline boasts a strap that runs from the front of the garment and around the neck, generally leaving the upper back bare. While this style works for most body types, it’s especially flattering for those with broad shoulders and straight or hourglass figures, since the point at the neck draws the eye in. 

What’s especially great about halter necklines is the style comes in a variety of fabrics, gown options, and formalities to fit any event. Whether you’re attending a casual daytime wedding or an evening, black-tie affair, there’s a halter gown out there just waiting to wow.

Ahead, these 22 options—all sourced from the most reputable brands with the best reviews—will make you feel like the guest of honor you are at your child's celebration. 

Most Romantic: Betsy & Adam Foil Knit Halter Gown

Courtesy of Lord & Taylor

Courtesy of Lord & Taylor

Size Range: 2-12 | Shipping: Free standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 45 days

Foil knit of wine and rose, this distinguished pink-hued halter gown from Betsy & Adam is richly romantic, while still feeling fully appropriate for one of the day's most special VIPs.

Price at time of publish: $289

Best Subtle Shine: Oleg Cassini High-Neck Glitter A-Line Gown with Keyholes

Oleg Cassini High-Neck Glitter A-Line Gown with Keyholes

David's Bridal

Size Range: 2-18 | Shipping: $15 | Colors: Blush, light blue, silver  | Return policy: Refund 7 days after delivered date minus $12.50 shipping fee

Sparkle without feeling like you’re stealing the show with this stunning Oleg Cassini A-line. The high halter neckline is elevated while the keyhole details and the all-over glitter add the right amount of shine for the special day.

Price at time of publish: $120

For a Spring Wedding: Marchesa Notte Frilled Halter-Neck Gown

Courtesy of Farfetch

Courtesy of Farfetch

Size Range: 0-18 | Shipping: $5  | Return policy: Full refund within 14 days

Spring weddings were made for floaty fabrics and floral-inspired hues, which is why we adore this mauve halter gown from Marchesa Notte. The tied waist defines your silhouette while the flowing skirt and frilled details keep the seasonal look fresh.

Price at time of publish: $275

Best Arm Coverage: Azazie Harrieta MBD

Courtesy of Azazie

Courtesy of Azazie

Size Range: 0-30 or custom | Shipping: $9.95 | Colors: Burgundy, navy, deep pink, plum, black  | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days; Custom sizes are final sale

Arm coverage with a halter? It’s not only possible but perfectly executed with Azazie’s Harrieta gown. The form-flattering column silhouette will keep you comfy, while the cold shoulder details and beaded neckline add a special touch to your day-of ensemble.

Price at time of publish: $169

For a Destination Wedding: Carolina Herrera Halter Neck Twill Gown

Courtesy of Moda Operandi

Courtesy of Moda Operandi

Size Range: 0-22 | Shipping: $7.50 | Return policy: Full refund within 28 days

Tropical celebrations call for a gown as spectacular as the scenery, and this special Carolina Herrera halter gown—with its bright floral pattern and criss-cross neckline—pairs perfectly with some "I dos" in paradise.

Price at time of publish: $3,690

For a Winter Wedding: Betsy & Adam Mock Neck Long Illusion Sleeve Ruffle Stretch Gown

dillards

Courtesy of Dillards

Size Range: 4-14 | Shipping: Free standard shipping | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days of purchase minus $9.95 shipping charge

Winter wonderland weddings give you the option of a more covered-up look, like this Betsy & Adam scuba crepe gown. The thick fabric and mesh illusion sleeves will fight any chill while the halter neckline and ruffled slit keep this look style celebration-ready.

Price at time of publish: $248

Most Classic: Show Me Your Mumu Jasmine Halter Maxi Dress

Show Me Your Mumu

Courtesy of Show Me Your Mumu

Size Range: XXS-XXL | Shipping: Standard domestic shipping rates apply  | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days of the delivery date

Black is one of the most classic formal wedding hues, and Show Me Your Mumu elevates the aesthetic with this sleeveless maxi. Pair with some bold accessories and shoes to really make your look pop.

Price at time of publish: $198

For a Colorful Wedding: Fame and Partners Appleby Sleeveless Ruffled Gown

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

Courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue

Size Range: 0-14 | Shipping: Free standard shipping  | Return policy: Full refund 14 days from delivery date; Full refund 14-30 days from delivery date minus $9.95 return charge

Bright bold days call for colorful numbers like the wondrous watermelon-hued gown. The cheery look is further heightened by a fashionable shoulder-to-floor ruffle detail and low-cut, lace-up back.

Price at time of publish: $304

Best Beading: Adrianna Papell Art Deco Beaded Blouson Dress With Halter Neckline In Dusty Blue

Courtesy of Adrianna Papell

Courtesy of Adrianna Papell

Size Range: 0-26 | Colors: Black, dusty blue, navy, nude, silver | Shipping: Free standard shipping  | Return policy: Full refund within 30 days minus $9.95; Store credit for 30-60 day returns

Coming in a wide variety of hues, Adrianna Papell’s renowned beaded blouson dresses are beloved for a reason. The intricate detailing, cinched waist, and straight flowing skirt flatters and delights for any formal occasion. Pair with some statement earrings to really elevate your ensemble.

Price at time of publish: $229

Most Versatile: Revelry Rosalie Tulle Convertible Dress

Courtesy of Revelry

Courtesy of Revelry

Size Range: 0-36 | Shipping: $13 | Colors: 28+  | Return policy: Final sale

Revelry’s famous Rosalie tulle gown has it all from fluffy layers of the lightest tulle to tons of color options. The best part is the style comes with removable shoulder straps and three long sashes that can instantly transform your neckline creating 10+ looks in one.

Price at time of publish: $189

For a Formal Wedding: Oleg Cassini Sequin Floor Length Halter Dress With Shawl

Courtesy of David’s Bridal

Courtesy of David’s Bridal

Size Range: 2-16 | Shipping: Free  | Return policy: Refund 7 days after delivered date minus $12.50 shipping fee

A defined sheath silhouette, belted waist, and all-over sequins make this fetching halter dress from Oleg Cassini a formal wedding favorite. Wear it with the included matching shawl to instantly up the elegance of your aesthetic.

Price at time of publish: $230

What to Look for in a Halter Dress

Halters are one of the more popular formal dress necklines, so if you’re in search of this style, you should come across a wide variety of options in your price range. However, to start, you’ll want to pay attention to the support of the halter. Thicker straps provide more support which can help you avoid aching shoulders or uncomfortable necklines. Additionally, while some halters have sewn-in busts, others do not, so it's important to consider what type of bra will work with your chosen look.

FAQ
  • What season are halter gowns good for?

    Since most halter gowns are sleeveless, they tend to be ideal for warm weather celebrations. That said, halters work well in chillier seasons as long as you bring a shawl, or jacket, to keep warm during any outdoor events or if the venue remains cold.

  • Are halter gowns appropriate for all formalities?

    Halter gowns range from casual to extremely formal, so whatever the event type, there’s going to be a halter dress that fits the bill. Pay attention to the types of fabric, embellishments, and colors to further determine the formality.

  • How do you accessorize a halter gown?

    Since halter gowns have a high neckline, you’ll want to focus on balancing the style with your accessories. Skip the necklace and instead, opt for some dangly earrings or a statement bracelet to pull your event look together.

About the Author

Contributing writer Rachel Varina is a social media, digital marketing, and editorial expert with over seven years of professional writing experience. Her work has appeared on sites such as Betches and Elite Daily.

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