Introduction
Let’s be honest—being the mother of the groom is a big deal. You’re not just attending any wedding; you’re watching your son start a new chapter, and you’re doing it front and center. Naturally, you want to look and feel your absolute best (without upstaging the bride, of course 😅).
That’s where the perfect updo comes in. The right hairstyle can elevate your whole look, add a graceful touch to your dress, and keep you looking composed from ceremony to champagne toast.
The good news? You don’t need a complicated, hours-long salon appointment to pull it off. Whether you’re going for timeless elegance or something with a modern twist, we’ve rounded up 21 gorgeous mother of the groom updos that are both classy and easy to wear. From low buns to twisty chignons, this list has everything you need to shine (with minimal stress).
We’ve also added styling tips, personality-driven commentary, and image search prompts to help you easily find inspo pics for your stylist (or even try one at home). So grab a comfy seat, maybe your favorite coffee (or mimosa 🥂), and let’s find your signature wedding-day hairstyle.
Elegant Low Chignon
Why It Works: Timeless, sleek, and sophisticated. Pairs well with just about any dress neckline.
Styling Tip: Smooth out your hair with a flat iron first, then twist it into a low bun at the nape of your neck. Add pearl pins or a vintage clip for that extra polish.
Who Should Try It: This style is ideal if you’re wearing a dress with lace, satin, or lots of texture. The simplicity of the chignon balances ornate fabrics beautifully.
Braided Crown Updo
Why It Works: Braids add visual interest and texture. Perfect for boho or rustic weddings.
Styling Tip: Create two small braids from the front sections of your hair and pin them like a headband across the crown. Tuck the rest into a low bun or chignon.
Style Personality: This one’s for the creative, nature-loving mom who’s not afraid of a little whimsy. Bonus: It keeps hair off your face during tearful ceremony moments 🥲
Twisted Side Bun with Sparkly Clip
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Why It Works: Adds glam without being over-the-top. Looks fantastic in profile pics!
Styling Tip: Twist hair to one side and secure it with bobby pins, then slide in a sparkly barrette or comb. A side part makes it extra flattering.
Best With: One-shoulder or asymmetrical dresses. This updo enhances the neckline and adds a little red carpet energy to your moment.
Sleek Mid-Bun with a Deep Side Part
Why It Works: Streamlined and sophisticated for more formal events. The deep part elongates and flatters the face.
Styling Tip: Blow-dry your hair smooth and use a little pomade to tame flyaways. Sweep hair into a clean, mid-height bun and secure it tightly.
Classy Vibe: This is for the mom who loves a clean look and wears structured dresses or minimal jewelry. Very Audrey Hepburn, very poised.
Romantic Rolled Updo
Why It Works: A soft, roll-style that creates volume without being big. Pairs well with vintage or romantic themes.
Styling Tip: Roll sections inward and pin across the back of the head, mimicking a Gibson roll. Leave soft curls around the face for a dreamy finish.
Perfect For: Lace dresses and candlelit ceremonies. Add a few floral pins for a sweet finishing touch.
Voluminous Curled Bun
Why It Works: Ideal for fuller hair textures. Adds drama and elegance without being stiff.
Styling Tip: Curl your hair first, then gently pin sections into a full bun. Use a volumizing powder at the roots.
Best With: Ball gowns or flowing chiffon dresses. This one brings the wow.
Side-Swept Chignon
Why It Works: A softer version of the traditional chignon. Frames the face in a flattering, feminine way.
Styling Tip: Pull hair to one side at the nape of your neck and twist it into a low, sleek bun. Add a comb or jeweled pin to secure.
Style Vibe: Ideal for romantic or springtime weddings. Adds instant grace.
Loose Braided Bun
Why It Works: Combines the softness of a braid with the polish of a bun. Ideal for laid-back, outdoor, or destination weddings.
Styling Tip: Start with a loose French braid down the back or side, then coil it into a relaxed bun at the nape. Pull a few strands loose around your face for that perfectly undone effect.
Who Should Rock This: Moms who want a dreamy, not-too-structured style that still looks elegant in every photo.
Classic High Bun with Volume
Why It Works: Sleek and stylish, with a red carpet vibe. Keeps your hair completely off your neck—great for warm-weather weddings.
Styling Tip: Tease the crown for volume, smooth over the top layer, and secure into a high bun. Finish with hairspray for shine and hold.
Vibe Check: Perfect for formal evening weddings where you want to channel a bit of celebrity glam. Just pair with statement earrings and you’re golden.
Curled Updo with Side Swept Bangs
Why It Works: Soft curls and sweeping bangs frame the face beautifully. Works well with most hair lengths and textures.
Styling Tip: Curl the entire head, gather curls loosely into a low bun, and let the bangs swoop to one side. Pin softly in place.
Dress Pairing: Looks stunning with sweetheart or V-neck gowns, especially if you’re wearing something with delicate detailing.
Half-Up Twisted Crown
Why It Works: A hybrid updo that lets you show off your hair’s length while keeping it tidy. Adds volume and romance.
Styling Tip: Twist two sections from each side of your head and pin them at the back. Add gentle curls to the remaining hair for movement.
Great For: Beach weddings or semi-formal events. Bonus: It photographs like a dream.
Side Low Knot with Floral Accent
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Why It Works: Adds a bit of whimsy and nature-inspired flair. Great for outdoor garden weddings.
Styling Tip: Sweep your hair to one side, create a low knot bun, and tuck a real or faux flower above the ear or into the knot.
Style Personality: Earthy, elegant, and a little playful.
Tousled Boho Bun
Why It Works: Effortlessly chic with a relaxed vibe. Ideal for wavy or textured hair types.
Styling Tip: Backcomb a bit for volume, pull hair into a messy bun, and allow pieces to fall out naturally. Use texturizing spray for hold.
Best For: Laid-back weddings, flowy dresses, and anyone who wants to look fab without looking like they tried too hard 😉
Knotted Updo with a Twist
Why It Works: A creative alternative to braids or buns. Adds visual complexity with minimal effort.
Styling Tip: Create small knots along the back of your head with pinned sections of hair. Twist the ends into a final low bun or loop.
For the Bold: It’s subtle yet artsy—great for moms with a fashion-forward streak.
Sleek Ponytail Twist
Why It Works: A ponytail, but elevated. Very chic. Keeps your hair secure through every dance and toast.
Styling Tip: Slick hair back into a low ponytail. Wrap a section of hair around the base and twist the ponytail into a soft coil or looped bun.
Who Will Love It: Modern moms who want style and practicality. It pairs well with structured or jumpsuit-style outfits.
Ballerina Bun with a Sparkle Headband
Why It Works: Elegant and polished. Adds just a touch of glam with the headband.
Styling Tip: Pull hair into a high bun and use a decorative headband (sparkle, metallic, or floral) to finish the look.
Style Bonus: Gives off graceful, composed vibes. Perfect if you’re doing a reading or walking down the aisle.
Tucked Low Bun with Veil-Friendly Finish
Why It Works: Sits low enough to accommodate hats or veils. Classic and camera-ready from all angles.
Styling Tip: Tuck your ends under and pin securely at the base of your neck. Keep the top smooth and add a light spray for shine.
Perfect For: Formal, traditional weddings where you might wear a hat or netted veil.
Sculpted Waves into a Bun
Why It Works: Old Hollywood meets modern elegance. Waves add texture and interest, even in updo form.
Styling Tip: Use a flat iron or wave wand to create sculpted waves before sweeping hair into a low bun. Pin sections strategically to show off the wave pattern.
Signature Look: This one screams “sophisticated glamour.” Bring on the champagne! 🥂
Soft French Twist with Side Bangs
Why It Works: A classic shape that never goes out of style. Side bangs soften the face and add dimension.
Styling Tip: Keep the twist slightly loose for a softer, more modern look. Use a teasing comb at the crown for volume before twisting.
Pro Vibe: This one gives a refined, graceful impression—perfect for outdoor garden weddings or elegant ballroom receptions. It says “I’m chic” without being too showy.
Textured Low Bun with Face-Framing Layers
Why It Works: Adds movement and softness to structured dresses. Keeps things youthful yet classy.
Styling Tip: Use a curling iron to add loose waves before gathering the hair into a soft, low bun. Leave a few wispy pieces out in front for that effortless look.
Ideal For: Moms who want a romantic vibe without going full princess. It’s especially gorgeous with off-the-shoulder gowns or soft pastels.
Final Thoughts
No matter your dress style, wedding venue, or personal taste, there’s a chic and classy updo that will help you feel confident, elegant, and—most importantly—like yourself on your son’s big day. Just remember: you don’t have to go full glam to look amazing. Often, the most timeless looks are the ones that feel the most natural.
Whether you opt for a braided crown, a romantic twist, or a voluminous bun, you’ve got 21 stunning options to choose from. Bookmark this list, screenshot your faves, and take them to your hairstylist to test out a few. You’ve earned your spotlight moment—so make sure your hair is as fabulous as the memories you’ll make.
