marthastewart.com
Weddings
Wedding Planning & Advice
Wedding Party
Mother of the Bride
26 Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyles That'll Make Her Feel Special

26 Mother-of-the-Bride Hairstyles That'll Make Her Feel Special

By Sarah Schreiber

October 26, 2017

Skip gallery slides

Melissa Jill Photography

These styles are sure to stun on Mom when the big day arrives.

Start Slideshow

1 of 27

D'Arcy Benincosa

There's nothing quite like having your mom with you on your wedding day. She raised you, made you who you are, and helped you find the amazing person you're about to call your spouse—a million "thank you, Moms" could never be enough. When the big day arrives, getting your hair and makeup done with your mom is about so much more than just a glam session. It's a chance for you to share a special, precious moment before the life-changing ceremony unfolds.

If you ask your mother, she'll tell you that your wedding day is just as momentous as her own—and on the biggest days of our lives, we want to look our best. That's why we've rounded up a series of polished, elevated hairstyles that will help your mom feel pretty and proud as she watches you walk down the aisle. From loose, curly updos to sleek bobs, and chic buns, there's a style that every mom will love. And we didn't skimp on the accessories. We've found options for the hat, headband, and hair jewelry enthusiasts, so that Mom can take her pick.

When you talk to your mom about her wedding-day hairdo, don't be surprised if she brushes you off. In the glam department, it's mostly been about you. She'll likely want to keep it that way! Helping her choose a look, though, is the least you can do. She guided you through the wedding dress search, the makeup run-through, and the hair trial. Now you can help her do the same. Click through to get inspired.

Advertisement

Advertisement

2 of 27

Braided Bun

Melissa Jill Photography

Click Here for More Updo Inspo

We loved how this mom's low bun subtly mimicked her daughter's hairstyle.

3 of 27

Bun with Bouffant

Jessa Schifilliti

A stylist added some volume to this updo by teasing the hair at the crown before gathering the hair into a low knot.

Advertisement

4 of 27

Faux Bob

For her daughter's big day, this mom tucked up her long curly locks to give the illusion of shorter hair.

5 of 27

Tiny Bloom

Wendy Laurel Photography

A single, tiny bloom made a big impact on an otherwise simple hairstyle.

6 of 27

Dramatic Updo

Michelle Lange Photography

Here's How to Add Glitz and Glamour to Your Wedding

With a touch of old-school glam, a dramatic updo with sweeping side bangs worked perfectly for a black-tie affair.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

7 of 27

Sleek Bun

Roey Yohai Photography

Paired with statement earrings, a dramatic, sleek, and glamorous high bun made this mom look absolutely regal.

8 of 27

Sideswept Curls

Show Her More Ways to Wear Her Hair Down

This mom upgraded the hair-down look by pinning her curls to one side, and letting several pieces float free.

9 of 27

Pin Curls

These tight, long-lasting curls surely made it through hours of dancing at the reception.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

10 of 27

Center Braid Updo

Check Out More Modern Hairstyles You and Your Mom Will Love

This modern updo involved loosely French braiding the hair straight back before tucking under the tail.

11 of 27

Flowers and Greens

Fresh flowers and sprigs of greens gave this chic bun a bit of romance.

12 of 27

Low Ponytail with Jeweled Clip

This low ponytail was upgraded with an ornate clip, which matched the colors of this mom's sari.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

13 of 27

Half-Up Half-Down with Bangs

Rachel Thurston

Pinned back curls looked even prettier with face-framing bangs.

14 of 27

Bouncy Blowout

Annabella Charles Photography

Click for Tips on How to Extend Your Blowout

This mom opted for a big, bouncy blowout to counter her daughter's loose, flowing curls.

15 of 27

Bob with Curled Bangs

See More Short Hairstyles She'll Love

Perfect for moms with short hair, this bob featured tucked under ends and curled bangs.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

16 of 27

Center Part Low Bun

Elizabeth Messina Photography

With a sharp center part, this mom's tight bun perfectly offset her couture gold trumpet dress.

17 of 27

Feather Clip

O'Malley Photographers

A youthful feather clip kept soft curls pulled back and out of the way.

18 of 27

Soft Side Ponytail

Lacie Hansen Photography

Positioning the ponytail slightly to the side ensured that this mother's hair would be visible from every angle in photos.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

19 of 27

Side Chignon

Elisabeth Millay

Click for More Pretty Bridesmaid Hairstyles

This mother of the bride took cues from her daughters and opted for a low updo with twisted details.

20 of 27

Updo with Loose Waves

J. Anne Photography

Loose, undone curls gave an updo a relaxed, bohemian vibe.

21 of 27

Half-Up Half-Down with Bouffant

Kristen Kilpatrick

This mom took the half-up, half-down look to new heights with a dramatic, contemporary bouffant.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

22 of 27

Loose Side Bun

Go Inside the Actress's Connecticut Wedding

The mom of Odd Mom Out star Abby Elliot opted for a piecey style, which looked youthful and fresh on her daughter's wedding day.

23 of 27

High Coif

Brushfire Photography

Coiffing the hair straight back brought a touch of drama to this pixie cut.

24 of 27

Natural Waves

Katie Mitchell Photography

Soft bangs and undone waves felt casual, but appropriate at this fancy outdoor wedding.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

25 of 27

Sideswept Pixie

A textured, sideswept style looked pretty and polished on this proud mom.

26 of 27

High Curly Bun

Her daughter went for the low bun, so this mom went high with a soft, curly updo.

27 of 27

Wide-Brimmed Hat

Elisabeth Millay Photography

On a hot summer day, a wide-brimmed hat worthy of the Queen was the ultimate hair accessory.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Up Next

By Sarah Schreiber