Although the bride should be the show stopper on her wedding day, plenty of other key players will want to look equally amazing, including, of course, the mother of the bride! A perfectly put-together MOB should have a manicured style without being too over the top. Here are a few beautiful mother of the bride hairstyles to inspire you!
#1: Loose Curly Updo
A glamorous curly upstyle that’s charming on women who want to make a lasting impact in a special event.
#2: Golden Blonde Layered Bob
I suggest a golden blonde layered bob if you want a chic and radiant hairstyle. This style features a shoulder-length bob with layers that add movement and dimension. The golden blonde shade adds warmth and brightness. It gives you a vibrant and sun-kissed look. When at your hairstylist, ask for a layered bob with soft, blended golden blonde highlights. The highlights should complement your skin tone. The layers will help frame your face and enhance your features.
#3 Sculpted French Roll with Side Sweep
Sleek and refined, this sculpted French roll is a more structured, polished look with a subtle side-swept front that elongates the face. Ideal for those with naturally straight, medium-density hair. The roll itself is secure and tidy, which is great for all-day wear, especially in humid conditions. However, it can feel a bit formal for some, so it’s perfect for traditional or black-tie weddings.
#4 Classic French Twist with Pearl Pins
A timeless choice, this French twist is given a fresh upgrade with staggered pearl pins along the seam. Works well for finer hair that’s been prepped with texture spray or light teasing. The vertical line of pearls adds sophistication without overwhelming the style. Best suited for oval or oblong faces. It’s elegant and structured, but can feel snug if you’re not used to tighter updos.
#5 Tousled Chignon with Loose Tendrils
Undone but polished, this tousled chignon creates softness with plenty of movement and subtle layering. Loose tendrils pull forward to frame the face, making this great for softening sharper jawlines. Works beautifully on medium-length hair with subtle layering. A light teasing at the crown gives it lift, but it may require pins to hold finer strands in place during long events or windy outdoor weddings.
#6 Braided Crown Bun with Rich Copper Tones
Full of warmth and detail, this copper-toned style weaves a loose braid around the crown into a voluminous low bun. A great match for thick or coarse hair, as the braid holds well and adds structure. The reddish tones enhance the dimension of the braid beautifully. It’s best for round or oval face shapes and gives a balanced look. Just note—it takes a steady hand to get that braid even on both sides.
#7 Twisted Low Bun with Dimensional Layers
With its rich dimensional layers and full twisted structure, this low bun offers softness and volume without being overdone. Best for medium to thick hair with a bit of natural movement. The layers give it texture and visual depth, making it especially flattering for lighter hair colors. It’s versatile for indoor or outdoor weddings, though a strong hold hairspray is a must for all-day wear.
#8 Sleek Twisted Chignon with Soft Volume
Smooth and timeless, this twisted chignon sits low at the nape and features a gentle volume at the crown for elegance without being too tall. Perfect for fine to medium hair that holds shape well when heat-styled. This look works especially well on straight textures and flatter occipital bones. It offers a neat silhouette from every angle, though it may need touch-ups if flyaways are common. A good choice for more formal or classic wedding themes.
#9 Textured Low Bun with Loose Waves
Textured and dimensional, this low bun combines soft waves and defined twists for a romantic, modern finish. Ideal for thick, medium to long hair with a bit of natural wave. The piecey tendrils along the nape and sides add softness around the face without feeling too casual. It holds up well for longer events but may feel a bit bulky if hair is super dense. Pairs beautifully with boat neck or off-shoulder gowns.
#10 Side Braid Updo with Soft Grey Tones
This gracefully swept updo starts with a soft side braid and blends into a loosely twisted bun. The natural grey adds contrast and elegance, while the braid softens the front hairline. Great for fine to medium hair types, especially those embracing their silver. The braid helps lift the face visually, making it flattering for older women. It’s a gentle style, but some flyaways might peek out over time if not secured well.
#11 Crown Braid with Elegant Low Bun
Structured yet soft, this style wraps a crown braid across the head, meeting in a gently coiled low bun. Especially striking on silver or gray hair, where the braid adds visual interest and depth. Perfect for medium-density, slightly coarse textures. It’s flattering on mature features and can help conceal thinning at the crown. Just be mindful—braiding too tightly can feel uncomfortable after hours of wear.
#12 Soft Braided Updo with Face-Framing Curls
A sweet choice for a softer, more romantic feel, this updo features a delicate braid woven into the side and tucked into a low bun. Loose, defined curls frame the face for a touch of softness. Best on medium-density hair with natural texture, especially flattering for rounder faces. It’s low-maintenance once styled but works best with a bit of pre-curling and texturizing spray for grip.
#13 Voluminous Chignon with Wispy Bangs
Full-bodied and softly swept, this voluminous chignon gives lift at the crown with piecey bangs that blend naturally into the sides. Great for medium to thick hair, especially if you’re dealing with flatness at the root. The airy bangs soften the forehead, which flatters square or longer face shapes. It’s a gorgeous, timeless option but does require strong hold products to maintain volume throughout the day.
#14 Romantic Low Twist with Pearl Accents
Elegant and romantic, this low twisted updo is enhanced with delicate pearl pins tucked throughout for added charm. Ideal for fine to medium hair with a soft wave, this look works beautifully on oval or heart-shaped faces. The twist detailing offers structure while keeping a soft silhouette. While the pearls elevate the style, they may need to be secured well to prevent slipping during long events.
#15 Chic Pearl-Embellished Chignon
This back-facing chignon looks polished from every angle. The pearls curve naturally along the twist, making it feel dressy without looking overdone. It’s great for medium to thick hair with some natural texture. This style also conceals shorter layers easily. The soft volume on top flatters longer faces. It may need touch-ups if worn for long events, especially in humidity.
#16 Classic French Roll Sophistication
Elegant and timeless, this French roll brings vintage flair with its sculpted side-sweep and pearl-embellished clip. Perfect for straight to slightly wavy hair with medium density. This style elongates the neck and suits round and square face shapes. It’s structured, so it’ll hold up for hours—but that also means it needs solid prep and strong hold products. Not ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed or soft finish.
#17 Low Wavy Ponytail with Ribbon Accent
Sweet and low-key, this wavy low ponytail with a ribbon is a great fit for casual or countryside weddings. Works best on long, medium-density hair with some natural movement. The subtle back-twist adds interest without needing braids or pins. This one’s easy to maintain but may not feel formal enough for more traditional settings. Add shine spray to enhance the soft texture.
#18 Elegant French Twist with Crystal Clip
This is a go-to look if you want glamour with minimal fuss. The French twist is softly pinned with fullness at the crown and secured with a sparkling clip. Ideal for women with dense or coarse hair, and especially flattering on long necks and oval faces. The style gives a polished silhouette without pulling too tight. Trickier to achieve on thin or layered hair without filler or padding.
#19 Twisted Knot Bun with Barrette
This sleek twisted knot bun is all about clean lines and a polished shape. The decorative barrette adds a delicate sparkle right where the twist meets the base. Best for fine to medium hair, especially when smoothed with a light serum. Not ideal if your hair has lots of layers—ends may poke through. Great for more formal receptions or evening weddings.
#20 Elegant Side Bun with Braided Detail
A beautifully sculpted side bun with a thick braid worked into the front section adds bold structure. The asymmetry draws attention to the neckline and works well with boat or off-shoulder dresses. Great for thick hair and medium length, though it can feel heavy if worn too long. Auburn tones really bring out the dimension of the braid. Best suited for square or oval faces.
#21 Soft Textured Low Bun with Twist
A beautifully textured low bun with subtle twists and a softly teased crown. This style offers fullness without looking stiff, ideal for women over 50 who want movement in their hair. The tousled finish gives it a modern feel. Best for medium to thick hair, especially if prepped with a texturizing spray. The downside? Flyaways may creep in—so have hairspray handy.
#22 Romantic Braided Crown
A romantic crown braid gives this look a whimsical, fairy-tale charm—perfect for outdoor or boho weddings. The braid follows the hairline and tucks into a pinned-up back, keeping everything off the neck. Best suited for medium to thick hair with a bit of natural wave or curl. Face-framing tendrils soften the edges beautifully. The downside? Not ideal for very fine or short hair unless extensions are used.
#23 Twisted Elegance Updo
This softly twisted low bun works beautifully on gray or silver hair, giving off a graceful, age-appropriate elegance. The side-swept bangs add softness around the face—ideal for women with higher foreheads or angular jawlines. Works well on fine to medium-density hair, but heavy or coarse textures may need smoothing. The twist technique adds detail without bulk, so it’s perfect if you’re not into big updos.
#24 Soft Chignon Grace
Soft and romantic, this low chignon is perfect for mothers of the bride who want elegance without looking too formal. The side part with face-framing waves softens stronger features and suits heart and oval faces well. Great for fine to medium hair, especially when paired with subtle warm highlights to add dimension. The jeweled clip adds a festive detail without overpowering the look. Can fall flat if hair lacks body—use volumizing products beforehand.
#25: Casually Coiffed
This is the look for you if you want to rock a casual, relaxed MOB style! This style is divine for those mothers who have natural waves and want to show them off. Medium to thick textured hair will work best, and any face shape will be complemented by this look.
#26: Traditional Updo
Channel your royal elegance with a simple low do on your nape. Simple and graceful.
#27: Fascinating Twist with a Hat
This hairstyle is perfect for the bride’s mother in an elegant winter wonderland wedding or even an outdoor beach destination wedding in Spring or Summertime. It’s a fantastic look for the mature lady (MOB) or a black-tie-themed bridal party. Plus, it’s a great style for naturally textured hair or creating texture with any hot tool (curling or flat iron). An amazing finishing spray for any up-styling, specifically this one, surely requires my all-time favorite, perfect for any weather and texture, is Kenra Professional Volume Spray 25.
#28: Short Easy Waves
If you’re looking for mob hairstyles, opt for this one! It’s a soft textured style for mothers who want to let their short gorgeous hair do its own thing.
#29: Easy and Elegant Updo
Consider this look if you want your hair up and out of your face on your son or daughter’s big day. It’s incredibly simple; once it’s done, you won’t have to think about it for the rest of the day! This look is great for moms with long hair. This style will be stunning if you have a round face and want to elongate it. To help get your hair smoothed back perfectly, I love using Bumble and Bumble’s Does It All Hairspray. It’s light and won’t get too sticky. If you have extra unruly hair, try using Super Goo by Kevin Murphy. It’s a little heavier and will keep your mane tamed all night. To style, secure your hair back into a high ponytail in the crown section of your head. If needed, spray it with a light-hold hairspray and smooth it with a soft boar bristle brush.
#30: Casually Tucked Chignon
This is a classical beautiful updo for a mom of the bride. It’s easy-going, romantic, lovely, and simple. I love its simplicity and easy-going texture, which creates a soft appearance. The hair doesn’t have to be thick, but there has to be enough length to make the chignon big enough.
#31: Airy Volume Low Bun
This elegant updo was created perfectly voluminously without being overdone. The thick pieces in front would be great for softening the face and giving off an elegant vibe.
#32: Glamorous Style with Glam Waves
For a mother of the bride, a style with glam waves will be a great fit. Glam waves will be curled to the ends and all in the same direction. The hair will be brushed out to create seamless waves. To add to the style, you can have the option to wear it all down or half up.
#33: Twisted Medium-Length Half Updo
A simple and wearable updo that involves twists and loose waves down your head brings softness and glamour. The cut and stare are ideal for a lovely beach wedding.
#34: Lovely Side Bun
I’d call this a mod variation of a classic side chignon. I recommend this style to any mother of the bride who is inspired by a timeless look. It’s best worn with a neckless dress, as it sits low and sometimes brushes the shoulder area. It can get caught on rhinestones and jackets etc. The side can also be easily taken down and transformed into a fresh look for a bride wanting a different vibe for their reception if executed correctly!
#35: Modern Updo
This look is a tousled modern updo. The cutest thing about this updo is how loose it looks. I love the pieces falling from the updo, making it look natural. There’s volume throughout that many women want to accomplish. This formal style would best fit someone with curly, shoulder to medium-length hair. To achieve these loose pieces of hair falling out, the hair around the hairline must be shorter to create a balance throughout the updo. This updo is best for anyone who doesn’t want anything too perfect or smooth. So many women can wear it. Brides, mother of the bride/groom, at the wedding, or even as a guest at any formal event!
#36: Long Half Updo with Highlights
This mother-of-the-bride hairstyle for long hair is soft, simple, and feminine. She loves to keep some hair on her face and a half-up, half-down look. The client arrived with wavy and thick hair. We used a 1-inch iron to create a soft curl and lightly pinned the half-top to make her look more elegant for the event.
#37: Simple Long Waves
This bridal look is universal. It is a look you can wear to the office and go straight out for cocktails after. A professional curling iron and a thermal styling protectant spray are the tools to achieve this look. Any hair type can work with this style if you have a good spray and curling iron.
#38: Soft & Swirly Pinned Updo
This look is soft and swirly goodness! I love that it looks like the soft curls were swept up and effortlessly pinned. I always love an upstyle on a blonde because the different tones and textures come through so well. Curl the hair first and use a wide-tooth comb to brush it out. I blow-dried mousse into the hair, tonged it, and brushed it out, then section by section (from bottom to top). I twisted and pinned the hair up.
#39: Adaptable Braided Updo
This look can easily slide into romantic, effortless, polished, and chic updo categories. My favorite thing about this style is its versatility, depending on which dress you pair it with. Nothing is better than having a go-to updo that can be worn to various events. A mother of the bride wanting this style should have either short or medium hair length and any texture. The longer the hair, the bigger the braid, and vice versa.
#40: Soft Updo with Rose Flower
This style is my take on a classic mother of the bride updo, emphasizing elegance with a soft yet detailed approach. This versatile look suits everyone, making it a favorite for myself and my clients.
#41: Romantic Updo Curls
This is a romantic yet sophisticated updo with lots of texture. My favorite part of this look is its versatility. It can work for everyone from the mother of the bride to prom night. Always start with second-day hair because it holds the style soo much better. Medium to long length and texture works best for this look. Regarding prep for this style, my go-to products are Kevin Murphy Doo.Over and Bedroom.Hair to add both texture and volume to the hair. Having multi-dimensional color will also add visual texture to this style.
#42: Soft Graduated Bob with Bangs
This soft graduated bob is classy, delicate, and feminine. It was designed to make the bride’s mother look and feel beautiful on such a special day. This style is also great for everyday wear. It can be tucked behind the ears or clipped to one side to give a different look or blow-dried with lots of body to give a powerful look.
#43: Swept Up Low Bun Sophistication
This look is classic messy/chic with a hint of swept-up sophistication. I love this style for clients as it looks effortless yet glamorous. This look is the perfect go-to style for a mother of the bride, bride, bridesmaid, or even a girl who wants a little flirty glamour for that special event.
#44: Crown Braids & Stacked Curls
This style is a soft, romantic, and natural look. It combines stacked curls on the bottom with volume at the crown held back by braids that wrap around the back of the head. This style looks great on everyone. I use it mostly for bridesmaids. The long curls down the back look great for photos, and the braided detailing gets compliments all night long. It’s a perfect event style and one of my favorites to create!
#45: Beautiful Chignon
I love this look as it is a very soft and elegant style. It is a style to be in awe of because of its versatility instantly. It’s the perfect look for occasions such as a wedding, reunion, casual dinner party, or even a school formal. This style complements any fashion statement. Do not polish this style too much, as it is more of a soft, textured look.
#46: Shorter Sassy Curls
This look is for the woman with hair on the shorter side (above the shoulders) who doesn’t want your typical “mother of the bride” style. It allows the woman to be her sassy self! This look is perfect when you want volume and texture but nothing too curly or “perfect.” Variations of this could be less or more curly, less or more volume, or adding a hairpiece to one side. You could even tuck one side!
#47: Curled Layered Bob
This look is best described as a layered bob curled with a 1-inch curling iron. My favorite thing about hairstyles for the mother of the bride is their ease and elegance of it. This client’s daughter is soon to be married, so we play with the color or cut every appointment. This day we were trying out wedding day styles!
#48: Twisted Bun
Incorporate twists and turns in an enchanted updo for amazing texture and dimension! Top it off with a nice piece of decor to finish the formal look.
#49: Stylish Half-up Half-Down
Look like a damsel-in-distress without any stress with these half-tied curls! Bring your favorite princess fantasy to life with a few hairpins and a floral accessory to create a half-up mother of the bride hair anyone would envy.
#50: Classic French Twist
Roll the day away with this jaw-dropping hairdo! It’s smooth and elegant and will certainly make you the star of the event.
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