Laura M Martin is passionate about feeling her best, from eating great food to having a fierce hairstyle. She has been working as a hairdresser and color educator in New York and Chicago for over a decade. She currently freelances as a stylist, writer, and recipe developer.
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Tessa is a New York-based writer and editor. When she isn’t fawning over Anne Brontë, she’s reading, writing, and maybe petting some cats. Her interests include feminism, veganism, 19th-century literature, music, and wrestling, all of which end up in her writing at some point. Her senior thesis, “‘No Generous Mind Delights to Oppress the Weak’: Anne Brontë as a 19th-Century Progressive,” earned her a summer research fellowship, giving her the opportunity to do hands-on literary research in New York City.
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Olga is a professional wedding hairstylist based in the UK. She specializes in modern, effortless, relaxed looks, which emphasize her client’s best features. Olga's hairstyles have been featured in print magazines such as Salonfocus and Weddings & Honeymoons. The stylist is sharing her knowledge and love for hair by training and mentoring other hairdressers.
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Pre-wedding commotion affects not only the future newlyweds but their parents and even some guests as well. The mother of the bride is one of the key figures in the event, and choosing a flattering hairstyle that matches the dress is the perfect place to start.
The latest hairstyles we have picked will help all mothers of the brides and grooms decide on the right hairstyle for the wedding day beforehand. Here is a selection of trendy, classy, and elegant updos and downdos to suit different tastes. In the pictures below you will find creative ideas for all hair lengths, types and textures.
@happilyeverafterhair
This loose, curly half updo is great for medium to long hair. By gathering curls in a half-up hairstyle and leaving a few locks loose to frame your face, you achieve an ultra-flattering look with a touch of elegance.
If you prefer classic, understated looks, this half up half down style with curls will fit the bill. Add a crystal and pearl clip for a striking accent.
@melissa_daloia_co
Women with medium-length hair who wish to bring fullness and dimension to their locks may like the idea of embracing this high, loose, curly ponytail. It will keep your hair out of your face allowing you to enjoy the wedding ceremony and tear up the dance floor.
@modernsalon
If you like elegant hairstyles, this sleek chignon updo is a great choice. It looks classy and feminine, making it a perfect hairstyle for the wedding. Complement the look with an elegant wedding hair accessory.
@hairmattersni
If you like less conventional and more free-spirited hairstyles, opt for those sultry beach waves. It’s a youthful and vibrant look for a mom who prefers an understated, modern style. Soft curls and waves are great to show off the dimensions of your hair color.
@rachaelharris_hairmakeupbeauty
This classic, beautiful ‘do, featuring curls with a youthful edge, is an excellent example of a hairstyle suitable for any face shape. The updo opens up the neck and back elegantly so you can showcase your backless dress in all its beauty!
@beyondbeautifulbyheather
This understated updo is a safe choice for both mothers of the bride and groom. It features curly hair gathered to the nape of the neck, which works well for different hair lengths.
@dc_hairdressing
You will look sophisticated and elegant, wearing a smooth French roll! If you’re planning a lot of dancing, the roll will keep your hair neat throughout the evening.
@nvbridalhair
Choose a simple and sleek hairstyle that will look timeless in the photos. Leave a few loose strands to frame your face and add some softness.
@mackhairlounge
This twisted updo boasts lots of texture and body, while it is suitable even for short and fine hair. Show it as an inspirational photo for your hairstylist if you are looking to wear your hair up.
@rosannanykanenmakeuphairart
This soft, effortless updo is great for showing off different colors in your hair, be it classic highlights, balayage coloring, or a natural sun-kissed look. Several loose tendrils in the front will complement the style giving your face beautiful framing.
@sabrinaevolution
When you’re looking for attractive updos for weddings with a lot of activity and dancing planned, a curly updo style is a great option. It works well for women who have layered hair thanks to its effortless structure.
@laurasnyderhair
Women with shoulder-length hair can wear their hair in loose low updos, using curly ends to create the illusion of a bun hairstyle. It’s especially appealing on tresses with dimensional hair colorings.
@lily_of_the_valley_hair_design
Go vintage with this interwoven look that is reminiscent of the turn of the century hair styles. These will work best with longer hair, but a shorter or layered cut can also be manipulated into this elegant updo with the help of extensions and bun cushions.
@hairbyhannahtaylor
When it comes to choosing a hairdo from the variety of hairstyles, you want to make sure it’s both sophisticated and flattering. This brushed-back low style is formal enough for the wedding day, yet it looks modern and elegant.
@weddinghair_specialist
If you are seeking shorter hair updos, try this style that offers an illusion of long, voluminous locks pinned on the crown. It would look great both with bangs or without.
@savijaellishair
Looking for a comfortable yet eye-catching style for your son’s or daughter’s wedding? This sweet and sassy hairstyle will show off your blonde locks while holding them together in place on the dance floor.
@hairandmakeupbyclaudine
This is another example of a lovely updo that looks good on both curled and straight hair. The side twists frame the face and soften the look of the pulled-back hair.
@aboutfacemh
Curly bun hairdos offer a fancy way to wear your hair on your daughter’s big day. This updo allows you to show off the neck, which is perfect for those with a dress that has a low cut in the back.
@dannielle_robeson
Effortless and elegant hairstyles are easy to choose and achieve if you have an experienced stylist on hand. Here is a beautiful idea to consider. The hair has been curled and intertwined to produce the exquisite loose updo.
@brushwithlove
This cute, formal half-up half-down hairdo is alluring for those with thick, medium hair. Whether you have naturally straight or wavy locks, you can additionally curl the ends to give your hairstyle a bouncy, voluminous appearance.
@happilyeverafterhair
The messy woven updo works better on thin and medium-thickness hair. If your hair is thick and blunt, it might be challenging to put it into this shape. Make sure that you leave some loose pieces around the front to flatter and frame your face.
@hairbyhollygould
If you have medium-length hair and want to wear it up, this modern take on a French roll updo is a beautiful option. Classic and elegant, with a touch of texture, it is a perfect hairstyle for the wedding ceremony.
@laurapickhairstylist
Charming and whimsical, this twisted and pinned hairstyle puts a contemporary spin on the traditional half up half down do. It’s been carefully put together to showcase the polished half-up section and then beautifully contrasted with the mussed-up, free-flowing waves.
@caitlynmeyermua
We love the effortless curve of this style! Gorgeous curls, collected in an elegant updo, are perfectly complemented with sleek side bangs. The overall result will work best for women with oval and round faces.
@ygandcobeauty
Are updos too formal for you? Go for a bouncy curled style with heaps of volume and side bangs. This look is an ideal option for a beach wedding.
@swellbeauty
Here’s one more pretty hairstyle for the wedding ceremony. The large bun with messy curls doesn’t require very long hair. You can take the bun as high or low as you’d like for the desired effect.
@definehairdesignandbeauty
This elegant, voluminous updo is ideal for any special occasion, a wedding in particular. Long hair, gathered in a slightly teased, low bun hairstyle, creates the illusion of fuller locks and beautifully accentuates your appearance.
@kellyjo_hair
Braided updo hairstyles are a timeless classic perfect for brides and their mothers on the wedding day. Braids boost your hair with texture and dimension, drawing everyone’s attention to your elegance and style. For an extra flair, add hair accessories or flowers.
@beautybyellada
The simple half updo is one of the easiest wedding hairstyles that you can make without assistance, whether you have short or long hair. Create some volume on the crown by teasing the top section of hair and then pin it loosely into place with sparkly pins. Voila!
@vivavocemakeupandhair
If you enjoy a no-fuss lifestyle, you probably prefer more relaxed hairstyles with carefree locks even on very special occasions, such as your daughter’s wedding. Lively effortless-looking hair is totally in the mainstream. Consider a half-up style with a delicate braid and touchable curls. Your hair doesn’t have to look too elaborate. Pretty and modern? Definitely!
@malyunova
A half updo hairstyle that does not allow those gorgeous loose curls to fall over your face is a perfect choice for weddings and receptions. What’s great is that this look complements a variety of hair lengths, making it versatile and stunning for any occasion!
@bridal_hairstylist
Show off your vibrant hair color with a trendy voluminous updo. Step up the concept of a classic French twist for a stylish special occasion hairstyle. Do not make it super sleek not to overpower your look.
@absolutely.ineke.hairstyling
Curls in the back and a sleek front with bangs create a simple and elegant shape that works great for an afternoon wedding.
@hairby_tania
Updos can sometimes look too heavy and complicated. Instead, keep it simple and go for some soft curls with hair pulled half up.
@modernsalon
You’ll be happy to know there are plenty of options for those who don’t like their hair pinned up for special occasions. Some wedding hairstyles for long hair simply involve pin curls or a small to medium barreled iron. Use a few hair pins to gather your hair back – this will give your locks the look of cascading curls. Of course, don’t forget the hairspray.
@lisamarieurias
This beautiful hairstyle boasts extra dimension, courtesy of a voluminous curly low bun that showcases the beauty of these stunning ginger curls. Complemented with a pearl or floral hair comb, you’ll look like a real queen at your princess daughter’s wedding!
@pearlin_hairmakeupartist
This curly blonde updo is perfect for thick, luscious locks. It’s all about utilizing the hair’s natural volume to produce a feminine, romantic movement. Set the style using a strong-hold hairspray.
@happilyeverafterhair
Elegant and attractive, this twisted updo with a crystal hair comb works great for medium-length hair and longer. Also, consider the thicker your hair, the chunkier the twists will be.
@modernsalon
This hairstyle exudes plenty of movement and dimension. Additionally, the combination of blonde and brown makes it look very modern and captivating.
@modernsalon
Hair jewelry gives your tresses an instant style update. Glitzy pieces are especially favored for weddings, but why not stand out with something more extravagant?
@sandrakristin.brautstyling
If you have naturally wavy hair (or have a good hairspray and a curling iron), there are a lot of cute hairstyles that will be fast and easy to put together even on short hair. This one features a voluminous bun in the back with messy wispy pieces. It’s absolutely perfect for a daytime wedding.
@lb.bridal
Chignons are timeless and elegant, which makes them a perfect addition to any wedding outfit. The best part is that they work well with many different types of hair from thin and straight to thick and wavy. That’s why this look is universally flattering.
@trulyhappybeauty
This updo is stunning and works for any hair length – although it will look best on shoulder-length hair. Don’t forget to leave some loose, curled tendrils out to soften the face and make you feel fancy!
@vanitybelles
A formal evening wedding calls for a more serious, sophisticated hairstyle. Look no further than this updo finished off with a jewel-encrusted pin.
@colorloungela
In search of a simple updo that works on medium bob-length hair? Take advantage of a simple pulled-back hairstyle with soft curls and face-framing tendrils. The style looks chic yet natural and effortless.
@ashleekaydesignss
Your updo doesn’t have to be complex to look good for this occasion. This hairstyle involves some backcombing for a perfect bouffant and a couple of tight twists wrapped together and pinned to the side.
@teasetopleasehairandmakeup
This relaxed updo is one of the most glamorous hairstyles on our list! Due to its simplistic and understated nature, it’s perfect for balancing out a sparkly statement dress or accessories.
@alexandralee1016
This messy, curly style is undeniably one of the prettiest updo hairstyles in this gallery! Jazz it up further using fashionable and enchanting hair accessories.
@thea.monahan
Shoulder-length hair can sometimes look short and thin when pulled into tight low buns. If you want a fuller-looking updo, have your locks backcombed and pinned into loose coils to achieve a bun-like appearance for an appealing hairstyle. Braided accents also add texture to thin strands.
@victoriaghairdesign
We hope our gallery with these beautiful hair ideas was useful for you. The best way to choose the most flattering hairstyle is to start thinking about it in advance. Same like a bride, you may schedule a test with your hair stylist. But this is certainly not a must. Anyway, we wish you to be the most ravishing mother of the bride (or mother of the groom) ever!
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If you are undecided on the style for your daughter’s or son’s wedding, it’s totally understandable – most moms are. First, pick your outfit – it will be your starting point and possibly give you some inspiration. Then think about what type of hairstyles make you feel most comfortable and beautiful. Schedule a trial with the hairstylist who is going to do the bride’s hair if there is such an opportunity. Or possibly, if it’s a local wedding, you might even pop into your regular salon. Be brave to experiment with different styles, however, preferably keep the same hair length and color.”