Beautiful Long Hair Ideas for Mothers of the Bride or Groom

Long hair offers endless possibilities for mothers of the bride or groom to create a stunning and sophisticated look on their child’s wedding day.

As a key member of the wedding party, you’ll want a hairstyle that not only complements your outfit but also reflects your personality and highlights the natural beauty of your long locks.

From soft, cascading waves to elegant updos and intricate braids, there’s a perfect style for every setting, whether it’s a grand formal celebration or a laid-back outdoor affair.

In this post, we’ll explore beautiful long hair ideas designed to make you feel confident, radiant, and ready to shine on this special day.

Head to our full guide for all hairstyles: Mother of the bride & groom hair guide

1. Soft Hollywood Waves

Hollywood waves offer timeless glamour, perfect for formal weddings. This style works beautifully for long hair, creating a polished, vintage-inspired look. It suits oval or heart-shaped faces and pairs well with dresses featuring elegant necklines. Use a curling iron and setting spray to keep the waves defined throughout the day.

2. Low Textured Chignon

A low chignon is a classic option for long hair, where the hair is gathered into a slightly loose, textured bun at the nape of the neck. It’s perfect for mothers who want an elegant yet comfortable style. Adding a jeweled comb or floral accessory enhances the romantic vibe.

3. Half-Up Twists with Loose Curls

This style pulls sections of hair back into twists, leaving the rest to flow in soft curls. It’s ideal for semi-formal or outdoor weddings and works well for mothers who want to keep some hair off their face while showcasing the length. Texturizing spray helps achieve a fuller look.

4. French Twist for Long Hair

The French twist is a sophisticated updo that works beautifully with long hair. The length allows for added volume and detailing, making it perfect for formal or black-tie weddings. It’s best suited for oval or square face shapes. Use strong pins and finishing spray for all-day hold.

5. Side-Swept Curls

Hair is curled and draped over one shoulder for a romantic and dramatic effect. This look highlights the hair’s length and is ideal for asymmetrical dresses or jewelry. Use a smoothing serum for shine and anti-frizz protection.

6. Boho Braided Crown

A braided crown offers a whimsical, bohemian feel. It’s perfect for outdoor or rustic weddings and works well for long hair, as the length allows for intricate braiding. Pair it with fresh flowers or a delicate headband for a natural, romantic touch.

7. High Voluminous Bun

A high bun with teased volume at the crown adds height and sophistication. This look suits petite mothers who want to elongate their frame. Secure with strong pins and hairspray, and consider adding a decorative comb for added elegance.

8. Waterfall Braid with Loose Waves

The waterfall braid creates a cascading effect, allowing long hair to flow naturally while adding an intricate detail at the crown. This style is perfect for outdoor or beach weddings and flatters women with round or heart-shaped faces. Use a curl enhancer to maintain the waves.

9. Straight and Sleek with a Middle Part

Long, straight hair with a sharp middle part is minimalist and modern, perfect for contemporary weddings. This style is ideal for mothers who prefer simplicity while highlighting their long hair’s natural shine. A smoothing serum and flat iron will achieve a sleek finish.

10. Low Ponytail with Curls

A low ponytail with loose curls offers a balance between casual and elegant. This style is ideal for long, thick hair, as the length allows for volume and movement. Adding a ribbon or jeweled clip can elevate the look.

11. Loose Waves with a Side Braid

A side braid that blends into loose waves is a creative and unique option. It works well for long hair and suits outdoor or garden weddings. This style is great for mothers with naturally wavy or thick hair, as it highlights texture.

12. Classic High Ponytail

A high ponytail with smooth volume at the crown is sleek and sophisticated. This style works well for long, thick hair and is ideal for modern weddings. Use a strong-hold elastic and wrap a section of hair around the base for a polished finish.

13. Twisted Low Bun

The twisted low bun is an elegant updo where sections of hair are twisted and pinned into a bun at the nape. This style is perfect for formal weddings and suits mothers with long hair, as the length allows for intricate twists.

14. Half-Up Bouffant with Curls

A half-up style with a teased bouffant at the crown and cascading curls is ideal for long hair. It adds height and elegance while keeping some hair off the face. This look flatters oval and round face shapes and is perfect for both formal and casual weddings.

Top tips for mother of the bride with long hair

Here are some top tips for mothers of the bride or groom when choosing a hairstyle for a wedding with long hair:

1. Consider the Wedding Theme and Venue

The wedding’s setting and level of formality should influence your choice. For formal, black-tie events, sleek updos or polished styles work best. For outdoor or casual weddings, looser, more natural styles like soft waves or boho-inspired braids are ideal. Align your hairstyle with the wedding’s overall vibe.

2. Match the Hairstyle to Your Dress

Your hairstyle should complement the neckline, sleeves, and overall design of your outfit. For dresses with intricate necklines or details, opt for updos or side-swept styles to showcase the dress. Flowing hairstyles pair beautifully with simpler gowns, creating balance and elegance.

3. Take Your Face Shape Into Account

Different hairstyles flatter different face shapes. For round faces, consider styles with height or volume, like a high bun or bouffant. Oval faces work well with almost any style, while side-swept looks or soft waves frame square and heart-shaped faces beautifully.

4. Work with Your Hair’s Natural Texture

Choose a style that enhances your natural hair texture. Long, straight hair looks stunning in sleek ponytails or chignons, while naturally curly or wavy hair can be styled into romantic updos or left cascading in soft, defined waves. Working with your hair’s natural characteristics ensures a look that feels authentic and lasts longer.

5. Prioritize Comfort

Long hair can be heavy, so pick a style that feels secure and comfortable for a full day of activities. If you’re worried about weight or heat, opt for an updo to keep hair off your neck and shoulders. Secure pins and high-quality styling products ensure your hairstyle stays in place.

6. Enhance Volume Strategically

Long hair sometimes lacks volume at the roots due to its weight. Styles like bouffants, teased crowns, or root-lifting products can create a fuller, more balanced look, especially for formal occasions.

7. Use Accessories Thoughtfully

Long hair offers endless possibilities for accessorizing. Choose combs, clips, pins, or even fresh flowers to enhance the look. Be sure to match the accessories with the wedding theme and your outfit, and avoid overly heavy pieces that could weigh down your hairstyle.

8. Test the Style in Advance

Schedule a trial appointment with your stylist to test how the chosen hairstyle looks and feels. This ensures that it complements your outfit, holds up well, and fits the wedding vibe. A trial also gives you time to adjust the style or try different options.

9. Don’t Overdo the Products

While long hair benefits from products like texturizing spray or finishing spray, using too much can weigh it down or make it look stiff. Opt for lightweight formulas that hold the style without compromising its natural movement.

10. Think About Maintenance

Consider how much upkeep your hairstyle might require during the day. If you’ll be moving around, dancing, or attending an outdoor wedding, choose a style that stays secure without needing frequent adjustments. Updos, braided styles, or pinned curls often hold better than loose styles.

11. Highlight Healthy Hair

Healthy hair is the foundation of any great style. Prepare your hair weeks before the wedding with deep conditioning treatments, regular trims, and a good at-home care routine to ensure shine and manageability on the big day.

12. Factor in the Weather

Weather conditions can affect long hairstyles. For humid climates, consider styles that resist frizz, such as sleek buns or braided looks. For windy settings, secure the hair with pins and products to prevent it from getting messy.

13. Coordinate with the Bride’s Style

While you don’t want to outshine the bride, it’s a good idea to choose a style that complements her overall aesthetic. For example, if the bride is opting for a boho look, a braided or textured style might align beautifully with the theme.

14. Add Color Dimension

If your long hair has highlights, balayage, or other color treatments, consider styles that show off the dimension. Curls, waves, or braided styles are excellent for enhancing multi-toned hair, giving it depth and vibrancy.

15. Trust a Professional Stylist

While it’s tempting to DIY, long hair can be tricky to style securely. A professional hairstylist can ensure your look is elegant, long-lasting, and tailored to your hair type and the occasion. Be sure to share inspiration photos and discuss your preferences during your consultation.

Head to our full guide for all hairstyles: Mother of the bride & groom hair guide