15 Stunning Mother of the Bride Hairstyles
Looking for inspiration for your mother of the bride hairstyle? You're bound to find something you love in this selection of 15 striking styles
As the mother of a nearly wed there's a whole host of different duties you'll likely be involved with in the lead up to the special day. From wedding dress shopping to helping plan the hen party, the mother of the bride duties are some of the most important.
That's why when it comes to things that make you feel special on the day, like mother of the bride hairstyles, we want to help take some of the stress out of finding a look that you'll feel confident in.
If you're looking for a one-stop-shop for all your hairstyle for mother of the bride inspiration then you've come to the right place. Whether you're after classic mother of the bride styles for short or long hair, tips for styling fine hair or up do styles for the mother of the bride, you'll find it here! And the best part is they are all real life examples...
Mother of the Bride Hairstyles
We know you've spent so much time making sure your daughter has everything she needs to feel confident on the big day but now it's about you! As the Mother of the Bride you want to look and feel your best and part of that begins with finding the perfect hairstyle. We've split this article up by hair length, hair type and hairstyles so there really is something for everyone, even if you're the Mother of the Groom!
- Mother of the Bride Hairstyles for Short Hair
- Mother of the Bride Hairstyles for Medium and Long Hair
- Updos and Half Hair for Mother of the Bride
- Mother of the Bride Styles for Curly Hair
- Mother of the Bride Hairstyles with Accessories
Mother of the Bride Hairstyles for Short Hair
Looking for chic inspiration for short hair? From elegant pixie cuts to soft waves and stylish accessories, we’ve rounded up the best looks to suit every vibe and outfit. Whether classic or contemporary, these ideas prove short hair can be seriously sophisticated for the big day.
1. Fresh Floral Details
Picking a bloom that co-ordinates with a flower in the wedding bouquet is perfect for all hair lengths, but looks particulary sweet with a chic pixie cut.
2. Short Corkscrew Curls
We love this short hair mother of the bride hairstyle with a fascinator. If you have finer hair you can add volume by styling it with tight curls.
3. Short Beachy Waves with Fascinator
If you want to wear a fascinator with short hair then opting for a parting on one side can help to balance out the look. We also love the way this mother of the nearlyweds has matched her fascinator to her dress.
Mother of the Bride Hairstyles for Medium & Long Hair
If you have medium to long hair, there are so many beautiful options to choose from. Whether you’re after soft waves, an elegant updo, or something modern and sleek, these stunning styles will help you look and feel your best.
4. Hollywood Waves
If you have luscious lengths then classic Hollywood waves are always a good idea. For those that struggle with volume, consider getting extensions for the special day.
5. Classical Half-Up Half-Down
This sleek half-up half-down look is great for medium length or shoulder length hair. It means you get the best of both worlds since your hair will be away from your face.
6. Slicked Back Chignon
For a truly sophisticated style opt for something like this slicked back bun. We love the way the hairband is hidden by the elegant twist - there's not a single hair out of place.
Updos & Half Hair Up for Mother of the Bride
Updos offer structure and sophistication, keeping your hair off your face and showcasing your neckline or accessories. Think soft chignons, low buns, or textured French twists. Half-up hairstyles are also a brilliant option if you prefer to keep some length visible while having the security of pinned sections. From romantic waves to twisted or braided crown styles, half-updos can strike the perfect balance.
7. Twisted Updo
Tousled face-framing curls can be really flattering if you're opting for an updo for your mother of the bride hairstyle.
8. Voluminous Half Up
Add more interest to a classic half-up half-down hairstyle for mother of the bride or groom with tousled waves.
9. Pinned Updo with Fascinator
This look shows you don't have to have really long locks to achieve a glamorous updo. This is a classic mother of the bride hairstyle for short hair - all it takes is a few expertly placed pins.
10. Elegant Low Bun
If you're planning to wear a statement fascinator then a neat low bun could be the perfect hairstyle to compliment it without being overpoweing.
Mother of the Bride Styles for Curly Hair
If you're planning on wearing your natural curls to the wedding then the key is to work with them not against them. We've chosen these styles because of the way they highlight and compliment each mother's natural texture...
11. Curly Low Bun
This chignon lends itself so well to curly hair for added texture and movement. If you want to add extra glamour incorporate a crystal hair clip and leave out a few face framing curls.
12. Curly Half Up
This is a beautiful option for long hairstyle for the mother of the bride. A half-up style really lets your curls shine. If you struggle with definition on some of your curls you can go over any frizzy areas with a chopstick styler.
Mother of the Bride Hairstyles with Accessories
Add to your mother of the bride hairstyle with a striking accessory.
13. Dainty Celestial Pins
Star pins are such a lovely detail when it comes to wedding day hair accessories. They are often associated with dreams and new beginnings - perfect for the special day.
14. Floral Hair Details
If you don't fancy real flowers then faux flowers can work just as well. We love the look of these vibrant orchids encorporated into an updo.
15. Pearl and Crystal Accents
You can't go wrong with a bit of shimmer so look for hair accessories with crystals or pearls to add a touch of elegance to any outfit.
Mother of the Bride Hair FAQs
We get it, figuring out the best style for your son or daughters special day can feel overwhelming. To help you find the perfect style, we've answered some of your most commonly asked questions...
Is a bob hairstyle okay for the mother of the bride?
Absolutely! A bob is a timeless and elegant choice for the mother of the bride. Whether sleek and polished or softly tousled, it can beautifully frame the face and complement any outfit. Add a little volume or a subtle wave for a more formal look, or accessorise with a clip or comb for extra glam.
What is the best hairstyle for a mother of the bride over 50?
The best hairstyle is the one that makes you feel confident and beautiful. That said, soft chignons, elegant half-up styles, and voluminous blowouts are all flattering and sophisticated choices for women over 50. Styles that offer gentle lift around the crown or face-framing layers are especially flattering and can feel both youthful and refined.
Should the mother of the bride wear her hair up or down?
There’s no right or wrong here. It really depends on your outfit, the formality of the day, and your personal style. Updos are great for formal weddings and can highlight necklines or statement earrings, while soft waves or a polished blow-dry offer a relaxed, modern vibe. A half-up style is a lovely in-between option.
Can the mother of the bride wear a fascinator with short hair?
Yes, and it can look incredibly chic! Short hair works beautifully with fascinators, combs, or decorative clips. Choose a piece that balances with your hair length. Smaller fascinators or side combs often sit better and feel more natural. If you’re wearing a bob or pixie cut, a side-swept style can help anchor the accessory.
How far in advance should the mother of the bride do a hair trial?
Ideally, book your hair trial around four to six weeks before the wedding. This gives you enough time to test styles, try out accessories or hats, and tweak anything that doesn’t feel quite right, without leaving it too late for changes. Bring along photos, your outfit, and any headpieces you plan to wear for the best results.
Now you've decided which hairstyle you'll be rocking, why not check out our edit of trendy mother of the bride dresses.
