Every wedding day is a celebration of a bride and groom’s love and unity, but such a momentous occasion wouldn’t be the same without the cherished loved ones who’ve stood alongside the couple over the course of their journey. 

The closest of the bride’s companions, the maid of honor holds a special place like no other. Usually an unmarried sister or best friend—a married bridal companion is called a matron of honor—the maid of honor serves as the bride’s right hand, and plays an integral role in planning the bachelorette party, coordinating with the bridesmaids, and assisting the bride with adjacent concerns on the day of. She also takes the stage at some point during the reception to give a heartwarming speech for the couple. 

READ NEXT: 10 Helpful Tips When Choosing Your Maid of Honor

To mark her distinguished post, the maid of honor wears an outfit that is noticeably separate from the bridesmaids. Whether it be by way of a defining accessory or an altogether different dress, a maid of honor should stand out beautifully in her own way—she deserves to be celebrated, too! 

Below, we round up 12 dazzling dress ideas for a maid of honor. 

1. Colored Lace Dress

If the bridesmaids will be dressed in the solid colors of the specified theme, a maid of honor can step it up a notch by slipping into a gown with a colored lace overlay. The texture is irresistible to look at, and is youthful and energetically stylish.

2. Empire Waist Dress in a Dainty Print

What could be more sprightly than a happy print and the faultless square neck and puff sleeve combination? For a sunlit seaside occasion, an MOH can tap into regencycore and don a vintage-inspired frock that’s full of personality.

3. Flutter Sleeve Dress with Cape Detail

A clever way to refashion a bridesmaid dress for the MOH is to simply add a flutter sleeve that extends into a sash or cape. This style would be right at home at a black-tie or formal wedding, but the flowy detail keeps it unique and and breaks the stiffness.

4. Dreamy Tulle Gown with Embellishments

Once you find your color match in the range of nude or beige shades, you’ll be good to go. The right skin-tone hue can complement your skin beautifully, effecting a soft, seamlessly radiant impression. A summer-friendly, flattering gown to wear is a strapless tulle frock, frosted with endearing embellishments like florets. This style is versatile and can be worn for both outdoor and indoor weddings, and doesn’t look out of place in both day and night.

5. Pleated One-Shoulder Dress

In comparison to the usual cylindrical chiffon gown, a pleated number accentuates the chic asymmetry of a one-shoulder dress. This one has fanned out, diagonal pleats, which give the dress more dimension. The shiny fabric, too, deepens the look with shadow and nuance, making it perfect for a nighttime occasion.

6. Halter Dress with Choker Detail

To exude a searing sophistication, go back to elevated basics, like a high-slit black dress. This particular piece features a choker detail that enhances the halter neckline, which keeps the gown looking more formal than a usual slit dress.

7. Off-Shoulder Mermaid Dress

For opulent affairs, a structured gown softened by a chic off-shoulder neckline will never fail you. Go for one in the deepest shade from the prescribed color theme for a mature, striking look. If the bridesmaids will be wearing slinky silhouettes like a sheath or column, stand out in a trumpet or mermaid gown.

8. Square Neck A-Line Gown in a Solid Color

The a-line gown hasn’t gone out of style for a reason—the straightforward silhouette accentuates the waist and effortlessly complements the figure, and the non-restrictive skirt allows for more movement than, say, a bodycon or serpentina type. If you want to stick to a fuss-free yet classy look, go for an a-line gown in a perky solid color.

9. Fluid Silk Cowl Neck Gown

Liquid gowns are always appealing to the eye, and dazzle in pictures! Don a slinky piece in a white wine or champagne color to brighten up any evening fete.

10. Minimalist Tube Dress

For more casual occasions with a contemporary theme, make a statement with a sleek, architectural tube gown with sharp tiers.

11. Sequined Boat Neck Gown

In case of weddings with a more modest dress code, look into wearing a boat neck gown, which covers the collarbones. For a more extravagant touch, pick one bedazzled with sequins and set in a vibrant hue.

12. Floral Brocade Gown

If you’ve found the right neckline and silhouette but are still on the hunt for a formal yet intriguing fabric, check out brocade gowns, which often feature regal floral patterns. The thick material also adds depth to a look like no other, making it a great pick for a standout gown.

To explore the latest trends, expert advice, and breathtaking inspiration in the world of weddings, don’t miss out on the Get Wedded in Australia 2023-2024 digital magazine! Whether you’re a bride-to-be or a wedding enthusiast, this magazine is a must-read.

Below, browse and read your free copy of the Get Wedded in Australia 2023-2024 digital magazine today.