15 Classy Half Up Mother of the Groom Hairstyles for a Timeless Wedding Look

Finding the right hairstyle when you’re the mother of the groom can feel trickier than it should. You want to look elegant—but not overdressed. Put-together—but still like yourself. And definitely not like you’re trying to borrow the bride’s stage. Half up hairstyles hit that sweet spot.

They’re polished, flattering on just about everyone, and you don’t have to spend two hours in the chair or panic about curls falling flat before the reception. Whether you’re walking down the aisle, giving a toast, or greeting guests all night, these half-up looks give you a timeless vibe without feeling stiff or overdone.

Here are 15 ideas that work for different hair types, lengths, and wedding styles—so you can find one that feels like you, but a little elevated for the big day.

Soft Waves Pulled Back with Volume at the Crown

Let’s start simple: soft waves with the top section gently pulled back. Add a bit of volume at the crown to keep it from looking flat. It has a slight ’60s elegance without going full beehive. Perfect for when you want subtle glam that holds its own in photos.

Half Twist with Loose Curls

Twisting each side and pinning it in the back is classic. Let the rest of your hair fall in loose curls and you get that effortless, romantic look. You can play with some face-framing pieces too, especially if you don’t love everything pulled back tightly.

Loose Curled Hair with a Side-Swept Half Up Wrap

This one works beautifully if you have layered hair. Start with soft curls, then sweep one side back and pin it with a few hidden bobby pins or a simple clip. There’s something elegant and cozy about this—great for cooler season weddings.

Twisted Half Up, Smooth Bottom

You can twist both sides in toward the middle and secure them with a sleek clip or barrette. Leave the bottom half straight or use a large curling iron to give it some shape without looking too “done.” It’s formal, but not fussy.

Half Updo with Decorative Clip or Comb

Sometimes a simple style comes to life with one great accessory. Pull back a small section of your hair and secure it with a beautiful clip, pearl comb, or vintage-inspired pin. This is great when you want to stick with your usual hairstyle but make it a little more special for the occasion.

Beachy Texture with a Simple Twist

If the wedding is more laid-back or outdoors (garden, beach, or summer venue), go for a slightly tousled look. Use a light wave or texture spray, pull back the front, and twist it into a low half pony. It reads effortless—but thought through.

Hollywood Waves, Half Pulled Up

For a more formal or evening wedding, try old-school glam. Think soft, shiny waves brushed out for that smooth S-shape. Pin back both sides just enough to show off the face, but let the shape speak for itself. Timeless and red carpet–worthy.

Curled Half Up Bun or Knot

Add a small knot or bun at the back from the pulled-back section. It’s a nice option if you want that half up look but with a bit more detail. Keep the rest of your hair curled and full—it balances out the shape and keeps it soft.

Side Part with Volume and Half Pull-Back

A deeper side part with lifted volume on top gives your face a natural highlight. Pull back the fuller side and pin below the crown. It works well for medium-length hair and gives a more tailored feel without being severe.

Rolled Half Updo with Vintage Vibes

Roll the pulled-back hair inward before pinning it—like a tiny victory roll or old-Hollywood style. You don’t need a retro dress to pull this off. Done right, it just adds subtle sophistication, especially for black-tie or art deco–themed weddings.

Face-Framing Layers with Simple Texture

This look is intentionally minimal. Add soft texture (use a wide curling wand or flat iron bends) and pull back the top section just enough to open up the face. Let the layers do the work. It looks graceful, unfussy, and like you didn’t try too hard (even if you kinda did).

Polished Half Up with a Low Bouffant

This one works especially well with straight or smooth-styled hair. The bouffant adds a little lift and polish at the top, and the sleek tuck at the back keeps it timeless. Add a simple barrette or decorative pin if you like a little sparkle.

Braided Crown Half Updo

Adding a braid—not a full-on fishtail, just a soft three-strand—gives your look something extra without it being “too young.” Wrap it around the back like a little crown. It’s subtle, textural, and holds up well even during sweaty dance floors or outdoor humidity.

Half Up Fishtail or Loose Braid Detail

Instead of just pulling your hair straight back, add a loose fishtail to the section you’re pinning up. Let it blend into the rest of your waves or curls. It adds visual detail without stealing the spotlight. Just skip the tight braid—keep it relaxed.

Accessorized Half Up with Fresh Flowers or Pearls

If you’re planning to wear a simple gown or dress, a small hair accent can really add something memorable. Pop in a pearl pin or even a fresh flower—just a little one. It’s soft, romantic, and really lovely in close-up photos.

A Few Real Talk Tips:

Get a trial if you can. Your hair might not hold curls like you think, or the style you’ve saved on Pinterest a million times might not suit your face shape IRL. Better to find that out early.

Don’t go for a completely new look. You should still feel like yourself—just a bit more polished.

Think about your dress neckline. Half up hair helps balance off-the-shoulder or V-neck looks really well, but anything too high at the neck might require a rethink.

At the end of the day, this isn’t about outshining anyone. You’re part of a big, emotional day—and how you feel in your skin (and in your hair) matters. These half up hairstyles help walk that line: classy without being stiff, timeless without being outdated, and elegant without trying too hard.

Just pick the one that feels the most you. That’s always the right call.