Mother of the bride updos are popular for good reason. Hair up keeps the face clear for photos, shows off earrings and the neckline, and survives a long day of hugging, dancing and changing weather better than loose curls. The question is which updo suits you: a sleek low bun, a classic twist, a soft chignon or a braided style.
Below, each type of updo is described with the hair it suits, the dress it pairs with and how to finish it with or without an accessory.
Why an updo works so well for the bride’s mother
The mother of the bride is in front of the camera from the getting-ready photos through the last dance. An updo keeps its shape across those hours, while waves left down tend to soften and frizz. It also feels comfortable on a warm day and keeps hair away from intricate necklines, lace collars and beaded shoulders.
An updo is not the only right answer, though. If you are still weighing your options, our overview of hairstyles for the bride’s mother compares updos with half-up and down styles for every hair length.
The low bun: classic and secure
A low bun at the nape is the most requested updo for mothers of the bride. It is understated, it suits nearly every face shape, and it sits comfortably against the back of a chair during dinner.
- Sleek low bun: smooth, center or side part, ideal for formal and black-tie weddings. Best on healthy, thicker hair since it shows every strand.
- Textured low bun: slightly loosened, with a few face-framing pieces. Kinder to fine hair and to softer, romantic dresses.
- Side bun: placed just behind one ear, it draws attention to a statement earring and suits asymmetric or one-shoulder necklines.
Twisted updos and the French twist
The French twist is a timeless choice: hair gathered vertically at the back of the head, rolled and pinned in a smooth seam. It looks particularly refined with high necklines and structured evening dresses. Modern versions are looser, with a little volume at the crown and the ends tucked softly instead of sharply.
Other twisted options include rolled sides that meet in a small low knot, or a twisted chignon where two sections are twisted around each other before being pinned. Twists are forgiving on medium-length and fine hair because each twist creates its own grip.
Soft chignons and romantic updos
A soft chignon is loosely gathered with curled pieces pinned in place, giving a relaxed, romantic finish. It pairs well with chiffon, lace and floral dresses, and with garden, vineyard or summer weddings. The look depends on a good base: curls set in advance, texture spray for grip, and pins hidden inside each section.
The risk with a soft updo is that it can drift toward undone by evening. Ask your stylist to anchor the structure firmly underneath while keeping the surface loose.
Braided updos
Braids add detail and hold. A braided low bun, a crown braid or two small braids wrapped into a chignon all stay secure for hours. Braided updos also suit curly and coily hair, where braiding works with the natural texture. Keep the braids neat and fine rather than chunky for a polished result.
Which updo for which hair and dress?
| Updo | Suits | Pairs well with |
|---|---|---|
| Sleek low bun | Thick, smooth, long hair | Formal gowns, high necks, black tie |
| Textured low bun | Fine or medium hair | Cocktail and tea-length dresses |
| French twist | Medium to long hair | Structured dresses, boat necks |
| Soft chignon | Wavy or curled hair | Chiffon, lace, outdoor weddings |
| Braided updo | Most textures, including curly hair | Daytime and relaxed weddings |
The dress should come first. Once your outfit is chosen, from color to neckline, it becomes much easier to pick the updo; our complete guide to finding your wedding-day dress helps with that part, from dress code to season.
With or without an accessory
An updo can stand alone, especially a sleek bun or a French twist. If you want an accessory, keep it smaller than the bride’s.
- Jeweled pin or comb tucked into the side of a bun: subtle, works at almost any wedding.
- Pearl pins scattered through a soft chignon: romantic and classic.
- Small fascinator on the side: suits a formal daytime wedding.
- Fresh flower echoing the bouquet: lovely outdoors, but check with the bride first.
Match the metal of the accessory to your earrings and keep the scale modest. Avoid anything that resembles a veil or a tiara.
Making an updo last
- Book a trial a few weeks ahead and wear the style for a few hours.
- Arrive with hair washed the day before unless told otherwise; clean, slippery hair holds pins poorly.
- Ask for pins anchored under the surface, not just on top.
- Carry spare pins in your hair color and a travel hairspray.
- If the updo is heavy, mention it at the trial: headaches by evening are a sign of too much tension.
FAQ
Is an updo too formal for a casual wedding?
Not if it is soft. A loose chignon or a textured low bun looks relaxed and still holds up through an outdoor day.
Can I do an updo with short or medium hair?
With shoulder-length hair, yes, in small sections and sometimes with padding. Very short hair is better styled with volume and texture than forced into an updo.
What updo looks best in photos?
A low bun or a twisted style with some lift at the crown photographs well from every angle, including the profile shots during the ceremony.
How do I avoid a headache from my updo?
Ask your stylist to spread the weight across several anchor points and avoid tight pulling at the hairline.
