Mother of the bride (& groom) hairstyle ideas

As the mother of the bride or groom, you play a significant role in your child’s wedding, and naturally, you’ll want to look your best on this special day.

You’re not just an important guest; you’re a central figure in the celebration, and looking your best is paramount.

From the moment you walk down the aisle to the countless photos and memories captured throughout the day, your hairstyle plays a crucial role in your overall look.

But with so many styles to choose from and factors to consider, where do you start?

This comprehensive guide is designed to help you navigate the world of wedding hairstyles, offering detailed advice and expert tips to ensure you find the perfect look for your child’s big day.

We’ll cover everything from understanding your hair type and face shape to considering the wedding location and weather, choosing the right style to complement your outfit, and the importance of a trial run.

Whether you have short, medium, or long hair, we’ve got you covered with a variety of stunning styles to suit every length and preference.

Ready to shine with confidence and elegance?

Let’s dive into the ultimate guide for choosing the perfect mother of the bride and groom hairstyle, ensuring you look as radiant as you feel on this momentous occasion.

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Top Tips for Styling Your Hair for Your Child’s Wedding

Know Your Hair and Face Shape

Choosing the right hairstyle isn’t just about what’s trending—it’s about what works for your hair and your features.

Here’s how to narrow it down so you feel confident and radiant on the big day.

1. Hair Length

Your hair length will naturally shape what styles are available to you. Some elegant updos need longer hair, while chic bobs and pixie cuts open up a whole different set of options.

Short Hair: Embrace texture, volume, and accessories. Think soft waves, sculpted curls, or sleek blowouts.

Medium Hair: You’ve got flexibility here—half-up styles, buns, and waves all work well.

Long Hair: Great for romantic updos, braids, and styles that require volume or layering.

Tip: If you find a style you love but your current length won’t cut it (literally), don’t panic. Extensions are a great short-term option for adding length or volume. And if you’re tempted to go for the chop, make sure to trial the cut well in advance so you don’t regret it.

2. Texture & Thickness

Your hair’s natural texture—straight, wavy, curly—and its thickness can make or break a style’s staying power.

What looks effortless on Pinterest might need a serious amount of prep (or product) in real life.

Fine Hair: Can struggle to hold curls or volume. Consider volumizing products, blowouts, or extensions to help with body.

Thick Hair: Can carry heavier styles and hold shape better, but might need extra smoothing or layering to avoid bulk.

Curly or Coily Hair: Embrace the natural texture or define curls for a polished look. Just make sure your stylist knows how to work with your curl pattern.

Tip: Work with your texture—not against it. A professional stylist will know how to create a version of a style that suits your hair type and holds up all day.

3. Face Shape

Your face shape plays a big role in what hairstyles feel balanced and flattering. It’s not about strict rules, but more about highlighting your best features.

Round Face: Add volume at the crown or height through updos to elongate the face. Avoid too much width at the sides.

Oval Face: Lucky you—most hairstyles will suit this balanced shape.

Square Face: Soften angular features with loose waves, side-swept parts, or layered styles.

Heart-Shaped Face: Offset a wider forehead with side-swept bangs or curls that fall around the chin or shoulders.

Long Face: Try styles that add width, like soft waves or bouncy curls, and avoid too much height at the top.

Tip: Don’t overthink it. If you’re not sure what your face shape is, show a few favorite photos to your stylist and let them guide you—they’ll know what will frame your face beautifully.

Wedding Location and Weather

Where and when the wedding takes place can make or break a hairstyle—especially if you’re outdoors.

Indoor Weddings: More styling freedom. You don’t need to worry about wind, humidity, or sudden weather changes.

Outdoor Weddings: Choose styles that are built to last. Braids, buns, and pinned waves hold up better against the elements.

Humidity

Look for styles that resist frizz, like sleek ponytails, polished buns, or textured braids.

Use anti-humidity products and avoid overly smooth styles that may not last.

Rain or Wind

If moisture or strong wind is in the forecast, go for styles that won’t collapse—think structured updos or half-up styles with extra hold.

Always have a weather backup plan with your stylist.

Outfit & Neckline

Your hairstyle should work with your outfit—not fight it. Use your dress as a guide.

High Necklines or Detailed Collars: Updos or low buns help keep the neckline clear and avoid visual clutter.

Off-Shoulder or Strapless Styles: Loose curls, soft waves, or side-swept looks balance the bare shoulders nicely.

Intricate Beading or Embellishments: Avoid styles that can snag. Choose clean, controlled looks like chignons or sleek ponytails.

Tip: Bring a photo of your outfit to your hair trial so your stylist can plan accordingly.

have a trail run

A trial run isn’t just helpful—it’s a must.

If You’re Using Your Usual Stylist: They might know your hair well, but don’t skip the trial. You still need to see how the style looks and holds up.

If You’re Using Someone New: A trial is essential. It gives them a chance to understand your hair type, texture, and what’s realistic for the day.

Bring Everything: Show up with hair accessories, a photo of your dress, and any inspo images. This helps your stylist create a look that works with your full outfit.

Give Honest Feedback: Don’t be afraid to speak up. The trial is the time to tweak anything that feels off—style, volume, parting, anything.

Tip: Book your trial for the morning if you can. You’ll get to see how the style holds up throughout the day.

Extra Tips and Advice

These last-minute pointers can make all the difference when it comes to feeling polished and prepared.

1. Start a Hair Prep Routine Early

Begin prepping your hair at least 2–3 months before the wedding if possible. This gives you time to grow out bangs, improve texture, or correct any past color issues.

If you color your hair, plan your final appointment about 1–2 weeks before the big day to allow it to settle but still look fresh.

Consider a gloss treatment or scalp scrub to boost shine and remove buildup in the month leading up.

2. Don’t Experiment Close to the Wedding

Avoid trying a new cut, color, or fringe within a month of the wedding. Stick to what you know works—this isn’t the time for surprises.

3. Schedule Hair Before Makeup

If you’re having both done professionally, book your hair appointment first.

That way, pins and sprays won’t interfere with your makeup, and any touch-ups won’t risk smudging your look.

4. Think About Timing

Some styles fall flat faster than others.

If your ceremony is later in the day or you’re moving between venues, factor in how long your chosen look needs to last—and whether touch-ups or restyling will be needed.

5. Communicate with the Photographer

Let your photographer know which side you prefer your hair parted or styled on, especially if there’s a key accessory like a clip or comb.

They can make sure it’s shown off in the photos.

6. Emergency Kit Add-Ons

Besides the basics, consider also packing:

A travel-size dry shampoo (for volume or fixing flyaways)

Hair elastics

A small mirror

Blotting papers (to remove oil near the hairline if needed)

Mother of the bride hairstyles

back view of hair with a double plait half up do — @ **AmieeGranth**

before and after of mother short hair tied in loose bun — @ **AmieeGranth**

Short Hairstyles

Short hair doesn’t mean limited options—in fact, it can be incredibly chic and elegant for a wedding.

Whether you’ve always worn it short or recently gone for the chop, there are plenty of flattering styles to suit your look, your dress, and the formality of the day.

Need more inspiration? Head to our full guide to short hairstyles for mothers of the bride or groom.

What to Know About Styling Short Hair for the Wedding

Keep it polished: Short styles often need more precision and product to stay fresh and hold their shape throughout the day—especially in photos.

Work with your cut: Don’t try to force a style that needs length. A good stylist will enhance what you already have with volume, texture, or shape.

Accessories are your best friend: From crystal clips to floral pins, short hair pairs beautifully with well-placed accessories that elevate the look.

Consider professional styling: Even if you style it yourself every day, a professional touch (especially for pixie and layered cuts) can give your usual look a formal upgrade.

Best Wedding Styles for Short Hair

Pixie Cut with Volume: Use a round brush or rollers to lift at the crown. A soft wave or tousled texture adds romance. Add a jewelled clip for interest.

Sleek Side-Part Pixie: Ultra-straight and tucked behind one ear, this look is clean, modern, and especially great with bold earrings or a statement neckline.

Soft Finger Waves: A nod to vintage glam, finger waves work especially well on cropped hair and give a timeless, polished finish.

Curled Bob: Add soft curls or waves and set them with a flexible hold spray. This style adds volume and movement—ideal for bobs just below the chin.

Tucked & Pinned Sides: Great for asymmetrical cuts or to show off earrings. Pin one side back with a decorative comb or mini fascinator.

Need more inspiration? Head to our full guide to short hairstyles for mothers of the bride or groom.

medium length hairstyles

Medium-length hair offers the best of both worlds—enough length for versatile styles without the weight of long hair.

Whether your hair sits at your shoulders or collarbone, you’ve got plenty of elegant, low-maintenance, and photo-friendly options.

Want more inspiration? Check out our full post of medium length mother of the bride hairstyles

What to Know About Styling Medium-Length Hair

Medium hair is one of the most versatile lengths, but it still comes with its own set of considerations:

Not quite long, not quite short: You might find some updos require more pins or volume tricks to work with your length. Be open to hybrid styles like low buns, tucked chignons, or half-updos.

Shape matters: The cut of your medium-length hair—whether it’s blunt, layered, or angled—will affect how styles sit. A blunt cut may not hold curls as well, while layers can add movement and softness.

Volume at the right place: Shoulder-length hair can sometimes hit awkwardly on certain necklines. Adding crown volume or tucking one side behind the ear can help balance the overall shape.

Curl retention varies: Medium hair may not hold tight curls as long as short or long hair, especially if it’s fine. Using hot rollers or smaller curling wands can help the style last longer.

Accessories work well: Hair combs, pins, and even headbands all work beautifully at this length and can elevate even the simplest style.

Best Wedding Styles for Medium Hair

Half-Up with Volume: A soft lift at the crown and pinned back sides keeps hair off your face while still showing off waves or curls.

Textured Low Bun: Twist or braid sections at the sides and gather into a low bun at the nape. Romantic and tidy—perfect for more formal weddings.

Loose Waves with Side Part: Create soft, layered waves and part to the side for a classic, effortless look. Ideal for outdoor or slightly more relaxed weddings.

Sleek Blowout: A smooth, shiny blow-dry with a bit of bounce is simple but elevated. Finish with a shine spray for a polished look.

Braided Crown or Side Detail: Add a small braid to frame the face or wrap across the crown—great for adding detail without needing length.

Want more inspiration? Check out our full post of medium length mother of the bride hairstyles

Long Hairstyles

If you’re a mother of the bride or groom with long hair, you have plenty of styling options—but that also means a few more decisions to make.

Whether your hair is below the shoulders or waist-length, the key is choosing a style that feels elegant, holds well, and complements your outfit.

Want more inspiration? Check out our full post of long length mother of the bride hairstyles

What to Know About Styling Long Hair

More hair, more hold needed: Long hair is heavy. Styles need structure—bobby pins, product, and secure setting—to stay in place all day.

Prep matters: Long hair takes more time to wash, dry, and style. Make sure you allow enough time on the wedding day for full prep, especially if you’re having it done professionally.

Don’t overdo volume: With long hair, too much curl or body can start to feel overwhelming, especially with a detailed dress. Sometimes less is more—opt for softness, not bulk.

Balance with your outfit: If your dress has lots of beading or detail, a sleek updo or smooth ponytail can help tone things down. If your outfit is simple, you have more room for volume, waves, or braided detail.

Updos are a smart choice: Long hair can feel warm and heavy, especially at summer weddings. Updos are not just elegant—they’re practical. You’ll thank yourself halfway through the reception.

Hair trials are essential: The longer your hair, the more variables there are—curl drop, weight, balance. A trial helps fine-tune the style so you’re not adjusting all day.

Best Wedding Styles for Long Hair

Soft Chignon or Twisted Bun: Timeless and flattering, these hold long hair securely and look sophisticated from every angle.

Hollywood Waves: Great for formal weddings and photos—just be sure to use strong hold products to keep the waves in place.

Half-Up Braided Detail: A mix of soft curls and subtle braiding adds interest without going over the top. Ideal if you want to wear it down but keep it off your face.

Low Ponytail with Volume or Twist: A sleek ponytail at the nape or a loose one with texture is modern and comfortable—especially when paired with statement earrings.

Classic French Twist: Elegant and structured, this style works beautifully for mature women with thick, long hair.

Mother of the Bride & Groom Hairstyles

Choosing the right hairstyle as the mother of the bride or groom is about complementing your outfit, accommodating the venue’s conditions, and feeling comfortable and beautiful.

With these tips and a bit of preparation, you’ll have a stunning look that suits the special day perfectly.

Embrace the celebration with confidence and elegance, knowing your hair is styled to perfection.