25 Elegant Mother of the Groom Hairstyles for the Big Day
When your son is getting married, the emotions are high, the to-do lists are long, and all eyes will be on you nearly as much as on the happy couple. As the mother of the groom, your look should reflect both elegance and confidence—starting with the perfect hairstyle. Whether you’re standing front and center for photos or mingling with guests, your hair should complement your style, flatter your features, and match the tone of the celebration.
Gone are the days of stiff, dated updos. Today’s mother of the groom hairstyles are effortlessly chic, blending classic sophistication with modern flair. From softly curled chignons to textured buns and polished half-up styles, there’s something for every hair type and personal preference. The right hairstyle doesn’t just complete your outfit—it elevates it, helping you feel radiant and relaxed from the ceremony to the last dance.
In this guide, you’ll discover a curated collection of stunning hairstyles tailored for every wedding style, venue, and vibe. Whether the event calls for timeless grace or a touch of trendy glam, these looks are designed to inspire and empower. So, take a moment for yourself, scroll through these beautiful options, and get ready to find a hairstyle that makes you feel like the best version of you on one of the most meaningful days of your life.
1. Loose Curly Half Updo
The loose curly half updo is a timeless choice that blends romance with elegance, making it ideal for the mother of the groom. By pulling back just the top section of the hair, this style opens up the face while allowing soft, cascading curls to flow freely. It strikes a perfect balance between structured and relaxed, offering volume and movement without overwhelming the overall look. Pair it with delicate accessories or subtle highlights to enhance its graceful charm.
2. Curly Half Updo with a Clip
The curly half updo with a clip offers a graceful blend of simplicity and refinement—perfect for mothers of the groom who want a polished yet approachable look. By softly pinning back voluminous curls with a decorative clip, this style enhances facial features while maintaining a light, romantic texture. The clip adds just the right touch of glamour, whether it’s a vintage piece or something floral and modern, making this hairstyle effortlessly versatile for any wedding setting.
3. Curly Ponytail with Tendrils
The curly ponytail with tendrils is a charming choice that strikes the perfect balance between elegance and ease. Ideal for mothers of the groom who prefer a modern yet romantic style, this look lifts the hair into a soft ponytail while allowing delicate curls to fall freely around the face. The loose tendrils frame the features with a flattering softness, making it a great option for outdoor ceremonies or lively receptions where movement and style both matter.
4. Low Chignon Bun
The low chignon bun is a timeless hairstyle that radiates sophistication without overshadowing the bride. Tucked neatly at the nape, this elegant bun offers a refined silhouette that pairs beautifully with high-neck or off-shoulder gowns. Its smooth, polished finish lends itself well to classic, vintage, or formal weddings. Add a subtle hair accessory or soft tendrils for a romantic flair that enhances the overall look while ensuring comfort and lasting hold throughout the event.
5. Shoulder-Length Beach Waves
Shoulder-length beach waves strike the perfect balance between elegance and ease, making them an ideal choice for mothers of the groom who prefer a relaxed yet polished look. This style enhances natural texture while offering soft movement that complements a variety of necklines and dress styles. Whether you’re attending a garden wedding or a chic indoor affair, the tousled, sun-kissed waves bring a youthful, radiant vibe that feels effortless but still picture-perfect for the big day.
6. Updo with Loose Front Strands
An updo with loose front strands is a timeless choice that beautifully blends structure with softness. By sweeping the hair back while allowing delicate face-framing pieces to fall naturally, this style creates an effortlessly romantic effect that flatters every face shape. It’s perfect for showcasing statement earrings or a graceful neckline, while still keeping a light, feminine touch. This hairstyle is especially fitting for semi-formal to formal weddings, offering poise without appearing overly styled.
7. Curly Bun with Long Straight Bangs
The curly bun with long straight bangs strikes the perfect balance between classic elegance and contemporary flair. The soft curls gathered into a neat bun add volume and texture, while the sleek, straight bangs create a striking contrast that draws attention to the eyes. Ideal for mothers of the groom who want a polished yet youthful look, this style complements various face shapes and pairs effortlessly with both traditional and modern wedding attire.
8. French Roll for Short Hair
The French roll for short hair is a timeless choice that radiates grace and sophistication, even without long locks. Perfectly suited for formal occasions like a wedding, this style gathers shorter strands into a smooth, structured twist that stays secure and stylish throughout the day. It frames the neck beautifully, making it ideal for showcasing elegant necklines or statement earrings, while its simplicity lends itself to both minimalist and more embellished bridal party looks.
9. Sleek Chignon with a Clip
A sleek chignon with a clip offers the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication for a mother of the groom hairstyle. This refined look keeps the hair smoothly gathered at the nape, allowing the features and neckline to take center stage. The addition of a decorative clip—whether pearl, crystal, or floral—adds just the right touch of glamor. It’s a polished option that photographs beautifully and complements both modern and traditional wedding attire effortlessly.
10. Updo with Twists
An updo with twists brings together timeless charm and soft texture, making it a flattering choice for mothers of the groom who want something elegant yet subtly detailed. The twisting technique adds dimension and visual interest, especially when paired with subtle volume at the crown or face-framing tendrils. This style works beautifully on medium to long hair and suits a variety of wedding themes, from classic to boho-chic, offering both comfort and style throughout the celebration.
11. Textured Updo for Mid-Length Hair
A textured updo for mid-length hair strikes the perfect balance between elegance and effortlessness, making it an ideal choice for wedding events. This style adds depth and movement by incorporating twists, soft volume, and strategically placed strands that flatter the face. It’s especially flattering for layered or highlighted hair, as the texture accentuates color dimension. Whether you’re aiming for graceful sophistication or romantic charm, this updo brings polish without feeling too formal or rigid.
12. Messy Updo with Tendrils
The messy updo with tendrils offers a relaxed elegance that’s both timeless and on-trend—perfect for mothers of the groom who want to look effortlessly graceful. With its soft, tousled texture and delicate face-framing pieces, this hairstyle adds movement and a touch of whimsy. It’s particularly flattering for layered hair, as it embraces natural volume while keeping the overall style light and romantic. Ideal for dancing and emotional moments, it stays stylish yet comfortable all day.
13. Curly Chignon for Short Hair
The curly chignon for short hair proves that elegance isn’t reserved for long locks. This clever style uses softly curled ends to create the illusion of a fuller bun, making it perfect for shoulder-length hair. It’s especially striking on textured or multi-tonal hair, where the curls add depth and dimension. Ideal for formal weddings, this updo delivers a polished finish while maintaining a romantic, effortless feel that suits both classic and modern ensembles.
14. Sleek Voluminous Chignon
The sleek voluminous chignon is the epitome of timeless sophistication, offering a refined silhouette with a touch of vintage charm. This hairstyle combines smooth, polished strands with a carefully structured chignon that creates both fullness and grace. Ideal for mothers of the groom aiming for a dignified yet fashion-forward look, it pairs beautifully with formal gowns and statement earrings. Extensions or bun cushions can enhance the volume, making it versatile even for those with finer or shorter hair.
15. Brushed Back Updo
A brushed back updo is a chic and sophisticated choice for the mother of the groom who wants to strike a balance between modern flair and classic elegance. By sweeping the hair away from the face and securing it in a soft updo, this style beautifully highlights the eyes and cheekbones while offering a clean, polished finish. Ideal for formal weddings, it complements a wide variety of necklines and pairs well with delicate accessories or bold earrings.
16. Curly Updo with Straight Bangs
The curly updo with straight bangs is a striking blend of texture and contrast, making it a standout hairstyle for the mother of the groom. The voluminous curls in the back add a touch of romance and elegance, while the smooth, straight bangs offer a modern edge that frames the face beautifully. This style is perfect for showcasing facial features and works well with statement earrings or a bold lip, adding a touch of contemporary charm to any wedding ensemble.
17. Low Updo with Side Bangs
The low updo with side bangs is a polished yet approachable hairstyle that effortlessly enhances a mother of the groom’s elegance. Positioned at the nape, the updo adds a graceful frame to the neckline, while the soft side bangs lend a youthful charm. Ideal for showcasing statement earrings or a detailed dress neckline, this look stays secure throughout the celebration and flatters most face shapes, creating a timeless style that balances sophistication and ease.
18. Twisted and Rolled Updo
The twisted and rolled updo is a charming fusion of structure and softness, making it an ideal hairstyle for a formal occasion like a wedding. This elegant look uses gentle twists and careful rolling to create volume and dimension, which flatters both straight and wavy hair textures. Framing the face with soft tendrils, the style adds a romantic touch while keeping hair neatly in place, offering both sophistication and long-lasting comfort throughout the celebration.
19. Curly Bun Hairstyle
The curly bun hairstyle blends timeless elegance with a playful charm, making it a standout choice for mothers of the groom seeking a polished yet approachable look. By gathering voluminous curls at the nape or crown, this updo adds texture and fullness, beautifully complementing both structured gowns and softer silhouettes. It gracefully highlights the neckline and shoulders, making it ideal for dresses with intricate detailing or open backs, while offering all-day comfort and graceful movement.
20. Loose Updo with Whipped Curls
A loose updo with whipped curls is the perfect blend of sophistication and softness, ideal for mothers of the groom who want to radiate elegance without appearing overly formal. This style delicately lifts the hair while allowing curls to tumble gracefully, creating a romantic and effortlessly chic look. It works beautifully with highlighted or dimensional hair colors, adding visual depth. Pair it with subtle hair accessories or fresh blooms for a graceful, modern wedding-day finish.
21. Tied Back Curled Half-Up
The tied back curled half-up hairstyle strikes a graceful balance between structure and softness, making it a timeless choice for the mother of the groom. With the top section of hair gently secured and the rest cascading in voluminous curls, this look flatters nearly every face shape and hair texture. It’s ideal for those who want a romantic, polished style without committing to a full updo. Add a jeweled clip for an elegant, personalized finish.
22. Messy Woven Updo
The messy woven updo brings together texture, elegance, and effortlessness in a way that feels both stylish and approachable. Ideal for medium to fine hair, this updo features softly twisted sections intricately pinned to create a woven effect that adds volume and movement. Loose tendrils around the face enhance its romantic charm, making it a perfect pick for an outdoor or bohemian wedding. It’s graceful, modern, and wonderfully full of personality.
23. Curly French Roll Updo
The curly French roll updo is a timeless hairstyle with a modern twist that blends sophistication and softness beautifully. Ideal for medium-length hair, this style features a classic roll structure enhanced with textured curls, offering dimension and romantic flair. It frames the face gently and keeps hair neatly in place, making it perfect for elegant wedding ceremonies. This look is especially flattering when paired with soft makeup and a detailed neckline or statement earrings.
24. Twisted and Pinned Half Updo
The twisted and pinned half updo offers an elegant balance between structured styling and natural flow, making it a favorite for mothers of the groom seeking modern sophistication. This look features soft twists gently pulled back and secured, allowing the rest of the hair to cascade in relaxed waves. It adds volume and texture without being overly formal. Ideal for medium to long hair, this style complements a variety of dress necklines and delicate hair accessories.
25. Curly Faux-Ponytail with Bangs
The curly faux-ponytail with bangs delivers both elegance and flair, perfect for a mother of the groom who wants to exude confidence without sacrificing comfort. This style gathers voluminous curls into a faux ponytail, giving the illusion of longer, fuller hair, while sleek side-swept bangs add a polished, contemporary edge. It’s a versatile option that suits oval and round face shapes beautifully and pairs well with structured gowns or flowing dresses alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best hairstyle for the mother of the groom?
The best hairstyle depends on your hair length, texture, outfit, and the wedding’s overall vibe. Classic updos like chignons or French rolls are elegant for formal events, while soft waves or half-up styles offer a more relaxed, modern feel. Choose a look that complements your features and makes you feel confident and beautiful.
What hairstyles work best for short hair?
Short hair can be incredibly chic. Consider soft waves, sleek pixie cuts, or styled bobs with side parts or volume at the crown. Accessories or small braids can add texture and dimension. A French roll or faux updo can also be created with clever pinning techniques.
Can I wear my hair down as the mother of the groom?
Absolutely. Wearing your hair down with soft curls, beachy waves, or a smooth blowout is timeless and flattering. To elevate the look for a wedding, consider adding a side part, subtle volume, or decorative clips for polish and sophistication.
Should I do my own hair or hire a professional?
Hiring a professional ensures your hairstyle is flawless and long-lasting, especially for updos or intricate styles. If you’re confident doing your own hair and opt for something simple like curls or a blowout, that can work too—just be sure to practice ahead of time.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect hairstyle as the mother of the groom is more than just a beauty decision—it’s an opportunity to express your personal style while honoring a deeply meaningful moment. From elegant chignons to soft, flowing waves, the right hairstyle complements your look, boosts your confidence, and enhances your presence beside your son on his special day. As you explore options, remember that the most impactful choice is one that reflects who you are—graceful, confident, and radiant with joy.
