This is such a beautiful and emotional time in your life… your daughter is getting married, and you have a front-row seat to one of the most joyful days ever. As the mother of the bride, your role is so special, and you deserve to feel absolutely radiant!
Your hairstyle can be that final little detail that makes you feel polished, confident, and ready to celebrate. It’s not just about looking lovely (although that’s a big plus!), it’s about feeling calm, put-together, and full of pride from the first photo to the last dance.
Whether you’re mingling with guests, walking down the aisle, or soaking in every heartfelt moment, your hair should feel like you—elegant, timeless, and effortlessly beautiful.
In this guide, we’ll walk through 20 mother of the bride hairstyles, from soft updos to relaxed half-up styles. We’ll also share simple styles we can do ourselves, and the most elegant looks for long hair. If you’re still planning your outfit, our style guide for the mother of the bride or groom covers the rest.
Quick Summary
- The best mother of the bride hairstyles feel elegant, suit our dress and last all day.
- Low buns, chignons and French twists are timeless, flattering and photograph beautifully.
- Simple styles like a sleek low bun or a half updo can be done at home in under 30 minutes.
- Long hair suits chignons, braided buns and soft half-up styles that keep weight off the neck.
- Always book a hair trial and match the style to your neckline, venue and season.
- Every style here also works for the mother of the groom.
How Do We Choose the Right Mother of the Bride Hairstyle?
Before we fall in love with a photo, a few practical questions help narrow the choice.
- What’s the neckline? High necklines suit updos. Off-the-shoulder and V-necks look lovely with low buns or soft waves.
- Where is the wedding? Garden and beach weddings suit softer, looser styles. Ballrooms and formal venues suit sleek, structured looks.
- What’s the weather? In heat and humidity, an updo keeps hair off the neck and holds its shape.
- How long is our hair? Most updos need hair that is at least shoulder-length. Shorter hair shines with soft volume and a lovely accessory.
- How long is the day? We’ll be wearing this style for 10 hours or more. Comfort really matters.
Whatever we choose, a trial run a few weeks before the wedding is worth every minute.
What Are the Most Beautiful Mother of the Bride Hairstyles?
Each style below includes who it suits best, so we can find our match quickly.
1. Beautiful Upstyle
The beautiful upstyle is an extension of that beautiful dress you’ve been waiting to wear! It is perfect for the mother of the bride who wants to look nice without going over the top.
This updo pulls the hair away from the face in a beautiful way, making a soft, attractive frame that stays in place for the whole party. It’s the perfect balance of classy and comfortable, ensuring you’re picture-perfect from the first “I do” to the last toast!
- Best for: Medium to long hair
- Difficulty: Moderate, best done by a stylist
- Occasion: Formal and evening weddings
2. Silver Updo with Flowers
This style is great for the mother of the bride who wants to look classic and fun at the same time. It is pure elegance with a touch of nature’s charm. Imagine having your pretty silver hair pulled up into a classy bun and having tiny flowers woven through them to give it a new, fresh look.
This look will make you shine with grace, whether you choose soft flowers to match the wedding colors or small plants for an earthy feel. It’s like carrying a garden in your hair, without the watering, of course!
- Best for: Medium to long hair
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Occasion: Garden and spring weddings
3. Textured Updo
Do you love a little extra volume and flair? This isn’t your typical sleek style; it’s full of life and personality, just like you.
The natural mix of waves, twists, and soft layers in the textured updo gives your look depth and dimension, making it perfect for both garden weddings and fancy ballroom parties. It’s polished enough to look formal yet relaxed enough to keep things fun.
- Best for: Medium to long hair, including fine hair
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Occasion: Any venue
4. Undone French Twist
This effortless French twist is a beautiful choice for women who want to look classy without trying too hard. With its soft, slightly tousled finish, it gives off that “I woke up looking this great” kind of vibe—perfect for a relaxed yet elegant wedding day look.
Loose strands gently frame the face, adding a casual charm that balances the polished style. This is one of those timeless mother-of-the-bride hairstyles that blends classic sophistication with a modern, easygoing touch—ideal for celebrating such a special day with grace and confidence.
- Best for: Medium to long hair
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Occasion: Relaxed, rustic or garden weddings
5. High Bun
This classic style pulls your hair up high, making your body look slim and elegant. It also brings out your beautiful face. During the whole party, from the emotional speeches to the dancing, it keeps your hair in place. It is perfect for showing off a statement necklace or earrings.
It is classy without being over the top and will make you feel beautiful and sophisticated all day. Besides, it is great for staying cool and cozy while you are busy being the day’s star (after the bride, of course!).
- Best for: Long hair
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Occasion: Formal and evening weddings
6. Chunky Boho Style
The Chunky Boho Style is perfect for the free-spirited woman who wants her personality to shine through on the big day. As one of the most relaxed and whimsical mother-of-the-bride hairstyles, this look is all about embracing your natural beauty with a touch of flair.
Think thick, textured braids or soft waves flowing effortlessly, bold, beautiful, and completely laid-back. Add a few delicate flowers or charming hair accessories, and you’ve got a style that feels as dreamy and romantic as the day itself. Let your hair flow with love, joy, and just the right amount of boho magic.
- Best for: Long hair
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Occasion: Outdoor, beach and boho weddings
7. Low Sleek Bun
This hairstyle is the definition of sophistication, with hair smoothed back into a polished bun at the nape of the neck. Simple but beautiful, it makes you look and feel effortlessly stylish, with not a hair out of place.
This style works well with any outfit or accessory, letting your natural beauty shine through. It is great for any wedding setting, from a grand ballroom to a small garden.
- Best for: Shoulder-length to long hair
- Difficulty: Easy
- Occasion: Any wedding
8. Twisted and Pinned Half Updo
The Twisted and Pinned Half Updo is the perfect mix of casual and stylish. Perfect for the mother of the bride who wants to wear her hair down but still wants to add some style to the top, this style has small twists that are pulled back and pinned, making it look elegant without trying too hard.
It lets your soft curls or waves stand out while keeping your hair out of your face for important events. This half-updo is just right, it is polished enough for the big day but casual enough to let your own style shine.
- Best for: Shoulder-length to long hair
- Difficulty: Easy
- Occasion: Any wedding
9. Loose Updo with Whipped Curls
The loose updo with whipped curls is all about soft elegance with a dash of playfulness. The hair is loosely pulled up into an updo, and light, bouncy curls fall around the face and neck. This style is a perfect mix of structure and freedom.
It is perfect for the mother of the bride who wants to look classy but also natural and at ease. The whipped curls give your hair bounce and volume, making it look dreamy and light.
- Best for: Medium to long hair
- Difficulty: Moderate, best done by a stylist
- Occasion: Spring and summer weddings
10. Classic French Twist
The classic French twist is the most elegant hairstyle there is. If you want to look classy and put-together, this style sweeps your hair up into a sleek, vertical roll and ties it off neatly at the back of the head.
The effortless style makes you look like you just left a salon in Paris. It looks great with both fancy gowns and more casual dresses. It looks great in any wedding setting and will keep you looking stylish and elegant from the ceremony to the dance floor.
- Best for: Medium to long hair
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Occasion: Formal and black-tie weddings
11. Braided Nape Bun
The braided nape bun is the perfect blend of elegance and artistry if you want to make a statement! The stylish bun in this hairstyle is placed low at the nape of the neck, and the intricate braids that add texture and interest look great with it.
It is a stylish choice that draws attention to your personality and keeps your hair in place. This style easily improves your style and keeps you looking great all day, whether you choose a simple braid or a more complicated one.
- Best for: Long hair
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Occasion: Any wedding
12. Chignon Updo for Long Hair
If your hair is long and flows freely, this style will sweep it into a stylish low bun with enough volume to show off its beautiful length. The chignon updo is elegant and classy, and it keeps your hair out of the way while keeping your look sleek and put together.
This style will make you look perfect and classy from every angle, whether you are talking to guests or having a sweet moment with your daughter. It’s perfect for long-haired beauties who want to look chic without sacrificing any of their luscious length.
- Best for: Long hair
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Occasion: Formal weddings
READ ALSO: The Best Short Hairstyles for Women Over 50
13. Lovely Messy Updo
It is called ‘lovely’ for a reason, right?
The hair is styled in a way that says, “I am fabulous, but I did not have to try too hard.” The loosely pinned strands and slightly messy texture give it a carefree yet elegant vibe. This style is great for both dressy and casual weddings because it is just slightly messy enough to keep things interesting without losing its class.
It is perfect for moms who want to look put-together but still feel comfortable. You can enjoy the big day without worrying about a single hair being out of place, because this look is all about embracing the beauty of a few flaws.
- Best for: Medium to long hair
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Occasion: Relaxed and outdoor weddings
14. Modern French Twist
If the mother of the bride wants to mix tradition with a new, modern look, this style is perfect for her. In contrast to the classic style, which is smooth and tucked in, the modern version includes texture, volume, and sometimes even fun, loose strands to keep things stylish while still being casual. It is a great choice if you want to look stylish while still looking polished.
- Best for: Medium to long hair
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Occasion: Any wedding
15. Curly Half-Up Twist
If you want the best of both worlds: fun curls and a touch of class, this hairstyle is for you. This style keeps things light by leaving your beautiful curls down while delicately twisting sections of hair back from your face.
Your natural curls will look great because the twists are pinned in place. You can keep your hair out of your eyes and still show off those beautiful curls. You will look and feel effortlessly glamorous. This style will look great on you whether you are smiling during the vows or laughing on the dance floor!
- Best for: Curly hair, shoulder-length or longer
- Difficulty: Easy
- Occasion: Any wedding
16. Braided Blonde Updo
This style is perfect for the mother of the bride who wants to look polished and unique, combining intricate braids with the elegance of an updo. The blonde tones in the braids look beautiful when they catch the light, giving the style depth and warmth.
It is a versatile choice, whether you like a single, strong braid or a bunch of small ones woven into your updo, this style will make you stand out in the classiest way.
- Best for: Medium to long hair
- Difficulty: Moderate, best done by a stylist
- Occasion: Daytime weddings
READ ALSO: 30+ Youthful Hairstyles & Haircuts for Women Over 50
17. Boho Braided Style
Who loves a touch of whimsy? The soft, textured braids in this hairstyle flow naturally, giving you a laid-back, bohemian look while still making you look perfectly put together.
This style feels light, natural, and so pretty, whether it is a single loose braid or a bunch of smaller braids tangled together. You look like you are ready to party, laugh, and enjoy every minute of the big day, and you look stunning as well!
- Best for: Long hair
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Occasion: Outdoor and rustic weddings
18. Party Pony
The Party Pony is all about fun, flair, and a touch of sophistication! It is not your typical look, but this high ponytail is great for the mother of the bride who wants to look stylish and feel good. This ponytail adds a touch of glam while keeping things fun.
You can wear it with smooth strands or soft waves. Whether you’re dancing at the reception or mingling with guests, the Party Pony gives you that youthful bounce while still staying chic and elegant. This hairstyle is great for moms who want a trendy, easy look that says, “I am here to party in style!”
- Best for: Shoulder-length to long hair
- Difficulty: Easy
- Occasion: Evening receptions
19. Curly Updo
Curly-haired queens, rejoice! This hairstyle is perfect for the mother of the bride who wants to look and feel her best on this special occasion. It is both modern and classic, making it suitable for a variety of wedding themes.
The updo keeps hair off the face and neck, making it comfortable to wear throughout the day and night. Additionally, the Curly Updo can be adapted to suit different hair lengths and textures.
- Best for: Curly hair, medium to long
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Occasion: Any wedding
READ ALSO: 20+ Flattering Hairstyles for Different Face Shapes In Your 50s
20. Ballerina Bun
The ballerina bun is a classic hairstyle that always looks classy and elegant. The bun is smooth and secure when hair is pulled back into a low ponytail and wrapped around the base. It can be dressed up or down with different accessories, making it versatile.
Since it does not need much care and keeps hair out of your face and neck, the ballerina bun is a good choice for long events like weddings. It’s a perfect option for the mother of the bride who wants to look sophisticated and polished on this special day.
- Best for: Shoulder-length to long hair
- Difficulty: Easy
- Occasion: Any wedding
What Are Simple Mother of the Bride Hairstyles?
Not all of us want a two-hour salon appointment on the morning of the wedding. Simple wedding styles look polished but take very little time. Many can be done at home in under 30 minutes.
These are the simplest styles from our list:
- Low sleek bun (#7). Timeless, quick and suits almost every dress.
- Ballerina bun (#20). Neat and graceful, with only a few pins.
- Twisted and pinned half updo (#8). Keeps length down and the face clear.
- Party pony (#18). Easy to do and lovely for the evening party.
- Undone French twist (#4). Soft and forgiving, so it doesn’t need to be perfect.
How Can We Do a Simple Low Bun at Home?
- Start with hair washed the day before, so it has a little grip.
- Mist a texture spray through the lengths and brush it back smoothly.
- A low ponytail is tied at the nape with a soft elastic.
- Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base.
- Secure the bun with four or five U-shaped pins.
- Finish with a light hairspray, and add a pretty clip or comb if you like.
Practise once or twice before the day. By the morning of the wedding, it will feel easy.
What Are the Best Mother of the Bride Hairstyles for Long Hair?
Long hair gives us the most choice. It can be swept up, braided or worn half-down. The best mother of the bride hairstyles for long hair keep weight off the neck and stay secure all day.
Our favorites for long hair are
- Chignon (#12). Elegant and timeless, and it sits comfortably at the nape.
- Braided nape bun (#11). The braids add texture and help hold everything in place.
- High bun (#5). Shows off the neckline and statement earrings.
- Twisted half updo (#8). Let long hair flow while keeping it off the face.
- Boho braid (#6, #17). Soft and romantic for outdoor weddings.
- Soft waves worn down. Brushed-out curls pinned to one side look glamorous and timeless.
How Do We Keep Long Hair Comfortable All Day?
Long, thick hair can feel heavy in an updo after a few hours. Ask your stylist to place the weight low, at the nape, rather than high on the crown. The scalp is spared by fewer, well-placed pins rather than dozens of small ones.
If our hair is very heavy, a half updo is often the most comfortable choice. Tuck a few spare pins into your bag, just in case.
What About Short and Medium Hair?
Short and medium hair can look just as special on the day. A soft blow-dry with volume at the crown always looks polished. A jewelled clip, a slim headband or a fascinator adds an instant occasion.
Shoulder-length hair can still manage a low bun, a half-updo, or a French twist. Fullness can be added with a few clip-in pieces if needed.
READ ALSO: The Best Short Hairstyles for Women Over 50
READ ALSO: 20 Thinning Hair Styles to Hide Female Hair Loss
Are Mother of the Groom Hairstyles Any Different?
Not really. Every style on this list also works beautifully for the mother of the groom. The same rules apply: match the dress, the venue and the season.
It’s a kind touch to check in with the other mother before the day. We don’t need to match, but similar levels of formality look lovely in the family photos.
How Do We Make Our Wedding Hair Last All Day?
- Book a trial. It’s the best way to see how a style holds and feels.
- Wash the day before. Freshly washed hair is slippery and harder to pin.
- Bring the dress neckline. Wear a similar top to the trial so the stylist can see the full look.
- Pack a touch-up kit. Include spare pins, a small hairspray and a comb.
- Plan for weather. An anti-frizz serum helps in humidity, and an updo copes best with wind.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right hairstyle is such a special part of getting ready for your daughter’s big day. The perfect mother-of-the-bride hairstyle should help you feel confident, beautiful, and totally yourself.
As you explore different styles, think about what suits your personal taste, the overall theme of the wedding, your outfit, and any accessories you’d love to include. Don’t be afraid to try a few different options until you find the one that makes you light up when you look in the mirror.
For the full look, explore our style guide for the mother of the bride or groom. Then finish with our makeup tips for a natural glow after 50.
And remember, confidence is everything. Whatever style you choose, wear it with pride and enjoy every precious moment of the celebration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most flattering hairstyle for the mother of the bride?
A low bun or chignon flatters almost everyone. It keeps hair tidy, shows off the face and earrings, and photographs beautifully. Leaving a few soft strands at the front keeps it from looking severe.
Should the mother of the bride wear her hair up or down?
Either works, so choose what feels like you. Updos hold up better in heat and through a long day. Half-up styles are a lovely middle ground if you want to show off length.
What are simple mother of the bride hairstyles I can do myself?
A low sleek bun, ballerina bun, half updo and party pony are all easy at home. Most take under 30 minutes. Practise once or twice before the wedding day.
What hairstyles suit a mother of the bride with long hair?
Chignons, braided nape buns and half-up styles are ideal for long hair. Keep the weight low at the nape for comfort. Soft waves pinned to one side are another elegant choice.
What hairstyles work for a mother of the bride with short hair?
A soft blow-dry with lift at the crown looks polished and elegant. Add a jewelled clip, a slim headband or a fascinator for occasion. Shoulder-length hair can usually manage a small low bun.
When should I book a hair trial?
Book a trial about four to six weeks before the wedding. That leaves time to adjust it. Wear a top with a similar neckline to your dress.
Can the mother of the groom wear the same hairstyle as the mother of the bride?
Yes. Every style in this guide works for the mother of the groom. It’s thoughtful to check in with each other, so both looks feel equally formal.
