Championship rings *and* wedding rings: We talked to some of the pros who made it happen.
Updated Feb 09, 202650 Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyles That'll Turn at Least 50 Heads
Get ready to be mistaken for the bride's sister.
There's nothing quite as special as your daughter's wedding. That's why browsing mother-of-the-bride hairstyles benefitting the monumental event is a top priority. As you pull together your ensemble, think of your hairstyle as a finishing touch that'll complement your MOB attire and bring the entire look together seamlessly.
Not sure what mom-of-the-bride hairstyle will look best on you? To make your wedding hair decisions easier, we tapped celebrity hairstylist Jimmy Paul for expert tips and insights. As you peruse the looks below, make sure to save your favorites to share with the hairstylist you plan to enlist for the celebration. Still on the hunt for wedding hairstylist? The Knot Vendor Marketplace is a great resource to find and book talented hair pros near you.
In this article: Expert Tips | Updos | Long Hairstyles | Medium-Length Hairstyles | Short Hairstyles
Mother-of-the-Bride Hair Tips From the Experts
What do the pros have to say about mother-of-the-bride hair? Read on for advice to guide you as you choose a wedding hairstyle.
Understand Your Hair Type
Picking a style that's right for you starts with understanding your hair type, thickness and texture. "You can determine your hair texture by looking at a single strand and comparing it to a piece of thread," says Paul. "Is your hair thicker or thinner than the thread? If thinner, then your texture is fine. If around the same width, you have a medium hair texture. If thicker, then you have a thicker hair texture." If you have fine hair or thinning hair, speak with your hair stylist about ways to add volume and get their advice about the styles that will, and won't, hold up throughout the wedding.
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Consider Your Mother-of-the-Bride Dress
The style you've selected for your mother-of-the-bride dress should influence your mother-of-the-bride hair decisions. "I advise clients to think about their entire look," says Paul. "Do they want to go along with the aesthetic or theme of the wedding? Do they want to look trendy or classically chic? Then, based on their wedding attire, we create a hairstyle that will highlight their best features and flatter their hair type."
Pay specific attention to the dress neckline of your mother-of-the-bride dress as that'll affect which mother-of-the-bride hair ideas will be most flattering and functional as part of your ensemble. For example, "if you are wearing a strapless dress with the intent of showing off more skin, then go with an updo that will accentuate that choice," Paul says. If your dress has a high neckline, show it off with a fancy mother-of-the-bride updo.
Consider the Style and Formality of the Wedding
What wedding style has the couple selected? The look and feel of the wedding your daughter is planning should inform how formal, or informal, your hairstyle is. For example, an updo works well for a black-tie wedding while loose curls would look nice at a semi-formal event.
Focus on Comfort and Confidence
At the end of the day, Paul's biggest suggestion is to style your hair in a way that makes you feel confident. "I recommend to clients that they pick a hairstyle that suits their personalities and is going to make them look and feel beautiful." He also recommends staying away from experimentation on your daughter's wedding day. "Don't try something completely new for the wedding. You want to look like an elevated version of yourself and not feel self-conscious about your new hairstyle."
Schedule a Mother-of-the-Bride Hair Trial
If you're having your mother-of-the-bride makeup or hair professional done then a trial is paramount. "The mother of the bride should absolutely schedule a hair trial," Paul advises. "The last thing you want to do as the mother of the bride is stress over your appearance the day of, or worse, not be happy with how your hair looks on the big day." Schedule the trial a few months before the wedding, after you've chosen your gown. Come to your trial with a photo of your dress, or better yet, a photo of you in the dress. This will help your stylist tweak the final look." If you aren't into the hairstyle your stylist creates, it's ok to politely speak up and ask for changes or adjustments. That's what the trial run is for.
Elegant Mother-of-the-Bride Updos
Wedding updos are a mother-of-the-bride hairstyle favorite for a reason: they're timeless, durable and versatile. Keep reading for some of our favorite hairstyles for ladies over 50 that feel anything but matronly.
If you decide on an updo, keep this advice in mind ahead of the wedding: wash and dry your hair the day before the wedding, and come to your stylist with one-day-old, washed hair," Paul says. "The additional grit from one day will add nice texture to the strands and modernize a classic look.
1. High-Bun Updo for Mother of the Bride
If you're on the hunt for formal hairstyles, keep this look in mind. The mom's stylist curled her hair before putting it into a high bun to add texture and volume. The style is a great choice because, like with her daughter's updo, the open back of her dress gets its moment in the sun.
2. Chic Double-Braid Mother-of-the-Bride Updo
Looking for a fun and unexpected updo idea? This mom's crown-like hairstyle is made up of two braids that meet at the back and form a halo, of sorts, atop her head.
3. Low-Bun With Flowers for Mother of the Bride
Flowers are always a great addition to any mother-of-the-bride hairstyle. An updo was a wise choice since this mom's outfit included a necklace and statement earrings. With her hair pulled back, the jewelry was on full display.
4. Sleek Mother-of-the-Bride Updo With Pearl Hair Accessory
Updos are a smart hairstyle for one-shoulder dresses. With your hair down, you'd constantly be fidgeting with it to keep it away from your dress. Thankfully, with an updo that isn't an issue.
5. Sophisticated Mother-of-the-Bride Top Knot
Need further proof that updos are a great option for one-shoulder dresses? This MOB's high ballerina bun accentuated her dress's asymmetrical one-shoulder neckline.
6. Side-Part Updo for Mother of the Bride
You and your daughter spent ages deciding on the jewelry you'll wear for the wedding. The last thing you want is to hide that. This low updo, with side bangs, did a great job of showing off the mom's statement jewelry.
7. Mother-of-the-Bride Updo With Rolled Curls
If you're wearing a bold color, it may be best to keep your mother-of-the-bride hair soft and simple. These twists, for instance, easily complement this mother of the bride's pink Korean hanbok.
8. Classic Bun Updo for Mother of the Bride
When in doubt, ask your daughter if you can choose a hairstyle that coordinates with hers. This stunning duo chose similar timeless chignons and red lehengas for the big day.
9. Custom Hijab for Mother of the Bride
If you are a Muslim mother of the bride and are wearing a hijab, consider having a custom one made to match your dress. Find a hijab stylist and request your hair be put in an updo and the scarf be tied around it.
10. Mom's Simple Updo With Wispy Tendrils
When it comes to updos for the mother of the bride, sometimes less is more. Leave two dainty pieces out for a wispy face-framing effect, as this MOB did.
11. Simple Bun Hairstyle With Wispy Bangs for Mother of the Bride
Have fine hair? Don't fret, even moms with hair on the thinner side can still achieve a stunning updo, as evidenced here.
12. Formal Mother-of-the-Bride Updo With Long, Side-Swept Bangs
This mom's face-framing side-swept bangs softened her updo and created a whimsical look befitting the garden-party event. A style like this is great if you want an updo you don't have to fuss with, but you still want to a natural, elegant look.
13. Braided Updo for Mother of the Bride
Need MOB updo inspiration for a rustic outdoor wedding? This inside-out French braid is a great option for a wedding that leans more casual.
Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyles for Long Hair
Long hair is incredibly versatile for moms—and we have all the hair inspiration to prove it. Browse our favorite wedding hairstyles for long hair, from side-swept ponytails to voluminous curls below.
14. Half-Up Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyle for Long Hair
This MOB's look is a masterclass in perfecting the half-up wedding hairstyle. The top portion of her hair was pulled back into a small bun while the rest of her long locks fell naturally around her shoulders.
15. Mother-of-the-Bride Long Hairstyle With Loose Curls
These curls are proof that you don't have to over-complicate your MOB hairstyle for the wedding. Simple add loose curls to your locks and you'll be left with a hairstyle that'll rack up the compliments.
16. Simple and Straight Long Hairstyle for Mother of the Bride
If you have thin, straight hair, take a cue from this adorable mom. She opted for a dramatic side-part to add depth and movement to her simple hairstyle.
17. Long Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyle With Soft Curls
We're obsessed with this long hairstyle idea for moms. Soft curls are a wedding go-to because they look great with nearly any dress or style.
18. Straight and Casual Long Hairstyle for Mother of the Bride
Fancy updos and intricate styles are not for everyone, so don't be afraid to let your long hair fall naturally. Case-in-point: this gorgeous mama helping her daughter get ready for her big day.
19. Low Side Ponytail for Mother of the Bride
We love this side ponytail because it's just the right mix of feminine and elegant. This hairstyle allows you to tuck your bangs behind the ear (to keep the hair out of your face) while still showing off your hair's length.
20. Half-Up Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyle With Curtain Bangs
"A half-up, half-down hairstyle can work well for a mother of the bride with longer hair," says Paul. "Keep it more current trend-wise by keeping curls a bit looser and messy–this look can become too pageant-queen with perfect, tight barrel curls."
Medium-Length Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyles
Wedding hairstyles for medium-length hair can make a big impression. From blunt bobs to simple hair accessories, these mother-of-the-bride hairstyles are some of the most easily achievable hairstyles that also look utterly breathtaking.
21. Half-Up Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyle with Soft Curls
Loose curls are a great option for moms with shoulder-length hair because the soft ringlets will sit beautifully atop your shoulders. This mom opted to pull a few strands back in a half-up style to finish off the look.
22. Medium-Length Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyle for Curly Hair
Curls that hit right at shoulder length are an idea hairstyle for strapless dress wearers. This mama's medium-length hair highlighted her gold outfit and youthful decolatage.
23. Shoulder-Length Half-Up Hairstyle for Mother of the Bride
Half-up hairstyles aren't just for long hair. This MOB pulled some of her hair back and secured it with a lovely hair accessory to complete the style.
24. Half-Up Shoulder-Length Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyle
Are you searching for a hairstyle to go with an off-the-shoulder dress? Let this shoulder-length half-up mother-of-the-bride hair inspire you.
25. Curled Shoulder-Length Hairstyle for Mother of the Bride
You're definitely going to want to save this hairstyle idea for future reference. To mirror the texture and volume of her layered mother-of-the-bride dress, this mom added soft ringlets to her shoulder-length hairstyle.
26. Small Bun Hairstyle for Mom With Shoulder-Length Hair
Even moms with medium-length hair can rock a chignon updo for the wedding. Need proof? Just look to this adorable mama's petite bun, with wispy bangs.
27. Curly Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyle With Loose Tendrils
Make your curly updo feel fashion-forward by leaving out a few locks. This lets you show off your natural texture without taking away from your mother-of-the-bride dress.
28. Chin-Length Bob Wedding Hair for Mother of the Bride
If your dress has a detailed neckline like this MOB, keep your hair simple with a chin-length bob that shows off those sparkling details.
29. Half-Up Half-Down Wedding Hair for Mother of the Bride
We're obsessed with this half-up, half-down mother-of-the-bride hair. Take note of how this mom also combined her front bangs with two wispy tendrils to finish the look.
30. Half-Up Mom-of-the-Bride Hair With Accessory
Half-up mother-of-the-bride hair works for both medium and long hair. After having your stylist curl your hair, simply secure some of it back with a jeweled clip for instant glamour.
Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyles for Short Hair
Are you searching for short wedding hairstyles for your mother-of-the-bride hair? Whether you're looking to rock a pixie cut or a classy deep side-part, a short hairstyle for mom is sure to beautifully frame her face and features.
31. Short Mom-of-the-Bride Hair Idea With Angled Bangs
This short hairstyle is the definition of sleek. Angled bangs add a crisp, sophisticated look to this mama's hairstyle.
32. Cropped Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyle With Tight Curls
If you're a mom with short hair, take note of this mom's style. She opted for dramatic earrings and a bold lip to complement her simple hairstyle.
33. Short Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyle With Voluminous Curls
These curls are the stuff of dreams. There's nothing overly complicated about this mom's hairstyle, it's just curls, but the end result is absolutely breathtaking.
34. Side-Part Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyle for Short Hair
A simple blowout to add volume to your hair is a great option if you tend to wear your hair straight. This sophisticated mother of the bride looked absolutely ravishing.
35. Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyle With Cropped Sides
Moms with pixie cuts, listen up! This mom's short-on-the-side, long-on-the-top hairstyle is edgy, modern, and absolutely beautiful.
36. Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyle With Beachy Waves
Is your daughter hosting a beach wedding? Take note of these loose, wind-swept feel of these beachy curls.
37. Short Wedding Hairstyle for Mother With Bangs
Moms with bangs and glasses, you're going to want to bookmark this beautiful hairstyle. What's more, the family matriarch's beautiful salt-and-pepper hair is a reminder that you don't need to dye your hair ahead of your daughter's wedding. Whether you're over 50 or over 60 or even more, be proud of your locks and the seasoned wisdom they bring with them.
38. Short Wedding Hair Idea for Mom With Curly Hair
If you're a mom on the hunt for a hairstyle for an open-back dress, look no further. Short hair that hits just above the shoulder is a good option that'll show off your curves beautifully.
39. Short Hairstyle With Side-Part for Mother of the Bride
To complement the softness of her velvet MOB dress, this mom opted for a short hairstyle with loose curls and some light teasing for volume.
40. Short Wedding Hairstyle for Mom With Thick Hair
If you have short, but thick, hair then it's worth taking note of this mom's style. By having her hairstylist taper the cut in toward the bottom it helped thin out some of the weight of her hair while still leaving lush volume atop her head.
41. Short Wedding Hair Idea for Mom With Bangs
Who said layers were only for long hair? We love the choppy, layered look of this mom short haircut with piecey bangs.
42. Sleek Chin-Length Bob for Mother of the Bride
A chin-length bob will never go out of style. This less-is-more mother-of-the-bride hairstyle is as classic as it is beautiful.
43. Short Wedding Hairstyle With Subtle Waves for Mother of the Bride
Even a buzz cut can still show off some textured waves. Talk to your hairstylist about the ideal product to add to your hair to enhance your short hair's movement.
44. Short and Textured Mom-of-the-Bride Wedding Hair
Looking to add some edge to your extra short hair? One option is to add a texturizing paste or gel to enhance your natural locks.
45. Glamorous Curly Mother-of-the-Bride Short Hairstyle
We see you, mama. These curls are glamorous while still being short enough to show off the stunning mother of the bride dress. "Try curling some of the hair away from the face to add movement and ensure that everyone can see your smiling face during the day," Paul says.
46. Short and Straight Wedding Hair for Mom With Side Part
This hairstyle brought the best of both worlds—it was short around the mom's neck to keep her hair off her shoulders, but the bangs brought length that could be styled in fresh, inventive ways. This is a good option if you want a no-fuss wedding hair idea as a mom.
47. Voluminous Blowout for Mom With Short Hair
How beautiful does this mom of the bride look? There's nothing quite like a beautiful blowout, even with short hair. To DIY this mother-of-the-bride hair simply use a round brush and blow-dry your hair up and back. Keep it in place and out of your face with a volumizing hairspray.
48. Asymmetrical Bob Hairstyle for Mom of the Bride
This mom's straight bob perfectly frames her beautiful face. For this look, Paul recommends washing and drying your hair the day of the wedding so it's fresh and bouncy.
49. Simple Pixie Cut for Mom's Wedding Hair
The pixie cut is a mother of the bride favorite for a reason. We adore how this mom styled her locks for a simple, windswept look.
50. Short Mother-of-the-Bride Wedding Hair With Loose Curls
Many moms prefer to keep their hair in its natural style for their daughter's wedding day–and we can see why. We love how this MOB embraced her short waves.
