2026 Mother of the Bride and Groom Hairstyles

Choosing a wedding-day hairstyle as the mother of the bride or groom can feel surprisingly difficult.

You want something that looks polished in photos, holds up through a long day, and suits both your outfit and your personal style. At the same time, you don’t want a look that feels outdated or overly formal.

This guide cuts through the noise and focuses on modern, wearable hairstyles that mothers are genuinely choosing for 2026 weddings. From soft, face-framing waves to structured updos, each style works for different hair types, outfit choices, and wedding settings.

Whether you prefer something simple and refined or a look with more detail, the ideas below will help you find a hairstyle that feels confident, comfortable, and completely right for the day.

1. Soft Curtain Bangs + Loose Waves

Curtain bangs are still trending for 2026 because they soften the face instantly without committing to a heavy fringe.
When paired with loose waves, the look feels youthful but still appropriate for a mother role.
This style works beautifully for medium and long hair.
It is especially flattering on softer face shapes that benefit from gentle framing.
It pairs well with dresses that have simple or modern necklines.
Using a flexible hold spray keeps the waves movable so the style looks polished all day rather than overly fixed.

2. Sleek Low Chignon with a Twist

The low chignon remains a go to for mothers wanting an elegant, timeless look.
The updated 2026 version includes a subtle twist or wrap detail for more dimension.
This style stays secure for long days and photographs cleanly from every angle.
It is ideal for formal venues and structured gowns, particularly anything with sleeves or high necklines.
If your hair is fine, a stylist can add internal padding to create fullness while still keeping the sleek finish.

3. Textured Half-Up, Half-Down with Braided Detail

This style offers support and lift around the face while still showing off length.
A braid or twist detail adds interest without overwhelming the look.
It is flattering for mothers who want hair partly away from the face but not in a full updo.
It works well with naturally wavy or textured hair.
It complements dresses with detailed backs or straps.
It is a good option if you want a style that feels soft rather than overly formal.

4. Hollywood-Style Side-Swept Waves

Side-swept waves add glamour without feeling too heavy.
The sweep across one side elongates the neckline and enhances cheekbones.
This style is perfect for evening weddings or black tie themes.
It suits medium or long hair, especially hair that holds a curl well.
It balances one-shoulder or asymmetrical dresses beautifully.
Using a shine spray instead of a strong hairspray keeps the waves glossy.

5. Natural Texture Embrace (Curly or Coily Hair)

Embracing natural curls is a major 2026 trend for mothers.
Defined and well-shaped curls look chic, confident, and modern.
This style is ideal for mothers who want an authentic look that highlights their natural texture.
A pre-wedding curl refresh with hydration and shaping makes a big difference.
It works with both minimalist gowns and soft, romantic fabrics.
Clips or pins can be added subtly without disrupting the curl pattern.

mother with short hair and big textured waves

back view of mother of the bride with her short hair pinned lossy on the back

6. Short Bob mother of the bride hair

A polished bob is an excellent option for mothers who prefer shorter hair.
Face-framing layers bring shape, movement, and softness.
The look photographs cleanly and requires minimal maintenance during the day.
It works with every dress style from sleek to classic.
It is especially reliable if humidity or wind is a concern.
A smoothing serum or round brush blow dry enhances shine and structure.

7. Low Ponytail with a Modern Twist

A low ponytail can look incredibly elegant when styled intentionally.
Sleek sides, a wrapped base, and a little lift at the crown refine the look.
Mothers love this style because it is comfortable and long wearing.
It suits medium to long hair.
It pairs beautifully with structured gowns, jumpsuits, or minimalist silhouettes.
Soft waves through the ponytail add dimension for thicker hair.

8. Half-Up Bouffant with Loose Ends

A subtle bouffant creates height and structure at the crown.
The loose ends keep the look soft and balanced.
It is flattering for round and heart shaped faces by adding length to the profile.
This style pairs well with dresses that have embellishment on the shoulders.
It suits medium or long hair.
Your stylist can create discreet internal support if you are worried about the height dropping.

9. Braided Crown or Halo Braid

A halo braid adds delicate detail without becoming overly boho.
The refined 2026 version keeps the braid neat and understated.
It is a strong choice for outdoor or garden weddings because it holds well in wind and humidity.
It suits medium to long hair.
It complements floral, romantic, and elegant outfits.
You can choose a subtle or slightly textured braid depending on your dress style.

10. Soft Pompadour Front with Loose Back

Lifting the front section creates height and opens the face.
The loose curls or waves at the back keep the overall style relaxed and polished.
This is a great option for mothers with shorter layers who need shape and structure.
It flatters many face shapes and works for both formal and relaxed outfits.
A root lift spray or mousse helps maintain the height.
This style photographs well from every angle.

11. Sleek Middle Part with Smooth Straight Hair

A smooth middle part gives a clean and modern finish.
It is ideal for mothers who do not enjoy curls or want a simple, elegant style.
This look works with fitted gowns, jumpsuits, and contemporary silhouettes.
A smoothing treatment or blow dry reduces frizz and increases shine.
Tucking one side behind the ear adds a minimal, refined touch.
It is easy to maintain throughout the day.

12. Low Bun Mother of the Brides & Groom Hair

A wrapped low bun has a more tailored finish than a standard chignon.
Wrapping a strand around the base creates a seamless and refined look.
A pearl or subtle sparkle accessory adds a tasteful wedding day detail.
This style is reliable and stays in place without much maintenance.
It suits most dress styles, especially V neck or open back gowns.
It works beautifully with fine or medium hair.

Top Tips for Choosing the Perfect Mother of the Bride or Groom Hairstyle

Start With Your Outfit and Overall Style

Your hairstyle should work with your outfit rather than against it.
If your dress has a detailed neckline, shoulder embellishment, or an open back, choose a style that keeps those areas visible.
Simple or minimalist outfits give you the freedom to choose a hairstyle with more texture or volume.
Gowns with lots of detail often pair best with clean, polished hair that does not overwhelm the look.
Think about the overall style you want to present.
If your outfit is modern and structured, aim for sleek hair.
If your outfit is soft and romantic, choose a style with movement or gentle waves.

Consider the Venue and Weather Conditions

Where the wedding takes place plays a huge role in how well your hairstyle holds up.
Outdoor weddings can mean wind, humidity, heat, or colder temperatures, and each affects hair differently.
If the ceremony is outside in summer, choose a secure style such as a low bun, a textured updo, or a refined ponytail.
For coastal or windy venues, avoid styles that rely on loose curls around the face.
Indoor or evening weddings allow you to choose softer looks because the environment is more stable.

Prioritise Comfort Throughout the Day

Mothers are usually involved in everything from early morning preparations to the final dance.
Your hairstyle needs to feel comfortable from start to finish.
Avoid styles that feel tight or heavy the moment they are finished because they will only feel worse as the day goes on.
Choose an option that allows you to move, hug guests, assist the couple, and enjoy the evening without constant readjusting.
If you do not normally wear your hair up, consider a half-up style or low ponytail instead of a tight updo.

Work With Your Natural Hair Type

Choosing a style that enhances your natural hair will always look more effortless than forcing your hair into something it does not hold.
Curly hair looks beautiful when defined and shaped correctly.
Fine hair benefits from soft structure or light volume.
Thicker hair works well in low buns, waves, and textured half-up styles.
If your hair resists curls or falls flat quickly, a sleek or structured look may be the more reliable choice.

Use Your Everyday Style as a Guide

Your wedding-day hair should feel like a polished version of what you already like.
If you rarely wear your hair up, you may not feel comfortable with a high bun.
If you always straighten your hair, a straight and glossy style will feel more natural.
The goal is to feel confident, recognisable, and at ease in photos.
Avoid completely changing your look unless you have tested it in advance and love the result.

Think About How the Style Will Photograph

Wedding photos are taken from every angle, so consider how the hairstyle looks from the front, sides, and back.
Styles with a little lift at the crown or gentle framing around the face photograph particularly well.
Very flat styles can sometimes look severe in photos, especially for fine hair.
If your dress has back detail that will be photographed, choose a style that shows it clearly.
Ask your stylist to check the shape from behind and take photos during your trial so you can see how it translates on camera.

Book a Trial and Test the Style Properly

A trial gives you the chance to see how the hairstyle looks after several hours.
Wear the style for the rest of the day if possible to check how it holds up during movement and in real conditions.
Bring photos of your outfit, accessories, and makeup inspiration so the stylist can create a cohesive look.
If anything feels too tight, too loose, or not like you, make adjustments during the trial rather than on the wedding morning.

Choose Accessories With Intention

Hair accessories for mothers should enhance the style rather than dominate it.
Small pearls, delicate clips, or fine pins add a refined touch without feeling bridal.
Avoid oversized pieces that compete with your outfit or draw attention away from your face.
If your dress already has embellishment, choose simple accessories to keep the look balanced.
If your outfit is clean and minimal, a small sparkle or pearl detail can complete the look nicely.

Plan the Timing on the Day

Speak with your stylist about the order of hair and makeup.
Some hairstyles last longer when done earlier, while others should be finished closer to the ceremony.
For styles with curls or waves, your stylist may set them tighter at the start so they relax into the ideal shape.
For sleek styles, finishing closer to the ceremony ensures maximum smoothness.
Allow enough time for final adjustments, especially if photos begin early.