16 Mommy and Me Hairstyles That'll Make You Both Look Amazing

Remember those mornings getting ready with your mom, standing side by side at the mirror? Now you get to recreate that magic with your own little one. Mommy and me hairstyles aren’t just about looking cute (though that’s definitely a bonus) – they’re about creating those special bonding moments that your daughter will remember forever.

I’ll be honest with you. When my niece asked me to do matching hair with her last summer, I thought it would be complicated. Turns out, most mommy and me hairstyles are way easier than they look. You don’t need salon skills or fancy tools. Just some hair ties, bobby pins, and about 10-15 minutes of quality time together.

In my experience, the best part isn’t even the final look. It’s watching your daughter’s face light up when she sees you both matching in the mirror. That’s the real magic right there.

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Why Mommy and Me Hairstyles Are More Than Just Cute

Let’s talk about why matching hairstyles for mom and daughter have become such a thing. It’s not just an Instagram trend (though the photos are adorable).

Mommy and me hairstyles create a bonding experience that your daughter will carry with her. You’re teaching her hair care, building her confidence, and showing her that beauty time can be fun quality time. Plus, let’s be real – coordinating your looks makes you both feel special.

What I love about this trend is how inclusive it is. Whether you both have curly hair, straight hair, thick hair, or fine hair – there’s a matching style that works for you. And you don’t have to go full identical twins either. Sometimes coordinating colors or accessories is enough to create that twinning effect.

Quick Tips Before You Start

Before we dive into the styles, here are some things I’ve learned that make mommy and me hairstyles way easier:

Start with similar hair prep. If you’re both working with day-old hair or freshly washed hair, your styles will turn out more similar. In my experience, slightly dirty hair holds styles better anyway.

Scale the style to your daughter’s age. A complicated French braid might work for you but frustrate your 4-year-old. It’s okay to simplify her version while you do the full thing.

Have all your supplies ready first. Nothing breaks the bonding moment faster than searching for bobby pins. Set up your styling station with everything you need within reach.

Take breaks if needed. If your little one gets fidgety, that’s normal. Make it fun with silly faces in the mirror or let her hold accessories to “help.”

Don’t stress about perfection. Slightly messy braids or uneven buns add character. Your daughter won’t notice or care – she just wants to match you.

The Essential Mom and Daughter Hair Toolkit

You don’t need a ton of stuff for mommy and me hairstyles, but having these basics makes everything smoother:

Hair elastics in both your hair colors (game changer for seamless looks)
Bobby pins (get two sizes – regular for you, mini for her finer hair)
Detangling spray (seriously essential for little ones)
Soft bristle brush (gentle on her scalp)
Hair clips to section while styling
Light hold hairspray (adult strength for you, kids formula for her)
Fun accessories – bows, ribbons, headbands, sparkly clips

Difficulty Guide for Mom and Daughter Hairstyles

Not sure where to start? Here’s a helpful breakdown of which mommy and me hairstyles work best for different skill levels and time constraints:

Style	Skill Level	Time Needed	Best For Ages	Holds Up During
Matching Ponytails	Beginner	5 minutes	All ages	School, play dates
Messy Buns	Beginner	5-8 minutes	3+	Casual outings
Half-Up Styles	Beginner	8-10 minutes	4+	Photos, parties
Pigtail Braids	Intermediate	15 minutes	5+	Active days
Dutch Braids	Intermediate	20 minutes	6+	All day wear
French Braid Buns	Advanced	25-30 minutes	7+	Special occasions
Twisted Updos	Intermediate	15-20 minutes	5+	Weddings, events
Space Buns	Beginner	10 minutes	4+	Fun outings

This should help you pick which style to try based on your morning schedule and your daughter’s patience level. Trust me, knowing what you’re getting into time-wise is half the battle.

16 Adorable Mommy and Me Hairstyles to Try

1. Classic Matching Ponytails

Let’s start with the most versatile mommy and me hairstyle out there – the humble ponytail. But we’re not talking boring here. A sleek high ponytail on both of you looks polished and keeps hair completely out of your faces.

The trick is positioning them at the same height. For you, that’s usually where your head starts to curve. For her, measure about the same distance from her ears. Brush thoroughly, gather high, and secure with a hair elastic. Then take a small section from underneath the ponytail, wrap it around the elastic to hide it, and pin in place.

You might be wondering if this is too simple. It’s not. Sometimes the simplest mommy and daughter hairstyles are the most effective. I’ve done this for school drop-off, grocery runs, and even date nights (when her dad babysits and we go out for “girl time”). Add a cute bow or scrunchie and you’re golden.

2. Adorably Playful Pigtail Braids

Pigtail braids are that perfect mix of practical and precious. They keep hair contained for playground adventures while looking absolutely adorable.

Part both your hair down the middle. Create two ponytails on each side, positioned just behind your ears. Then braid each section – simple three-strand braids work great. Secure the ends with small elastics.

Here’s what I love about mommy and me pigtail braids: they work on literally any hair length past shoulder-length. Your braids might be longer than hers, but the matching vibe is still there. Plus, this style lasts all day without needing touch-ups. Perfect for busy moms who don’t have time to fix hair every two hours.

3. Effortlessly Chic Messy Buns

Some mornings you need something that looks put-together but takes zero effort. Enter matching messy buns – the lazy girl’s best friend that somehow looks intentionally stylish.

Flip your head upside down and gather your hair into a high ponytail. Don’t worry about bumps – they add to the messy vibe. Twist the ponytail loosely, wrap it around the base in a circular motion, and secure with bobby pins. Pull out a few face-framing pieces and maybe tug the bun apart slightly for more volume.

Do the exact same thing on your daughter’s hair. The beauty of messy buns is that they don’t need to be identical to look coordinated. In my experience, these work especially well when you’re both having a bad hair day. Just embrace the chaos and call it fashion.

4. Beachy Waves for Blonde Beauties

If you and your mini both have blonde or light brown hair, matching beachy waves show off those sun-kissed tones beautifully. This works for medium to long hair on both of you.

Start by applying a sea salt spray to damp hair. Scrunch it in with your hands. Let it air dry if you have time, or use a diffuser on low heat. Once dry, use a curling wand (large barrel for you, smaller for her) to add a few random curls throughout. Don’t make them perfect – messy is the goal.

Finish with a light texturizing spray. The result is that effortless, just-back-from-the-beach look that photographs like a dream. This is my go-to mommy and me hairstyle for summer family photos or beach days.

5. Sparkly Barrette Glamour

Sometimes the easiest way to match is through accessories. Matching sparkly barrettes instantly coordinate any hairstyle without requiring identical hair.

You can both wear your hair down, in ponytails, in buns – whatever works. Then add coordinating sparkly clips on the same side. Clip back your bangs together, pin half-up sections, or just add them as decorative accents.

What I love about this approach is it works for moms who don’t want to fully match hairstyles but still want that coordinated look. Buy a set of matching clips (there are tons of adorable mother-daughter hair accessory sets online) and you’re set for months of easy matching moments.

6. Sleek Bobs with Bangs

If you both have shorter hair, matching bob haircuts are incredibly chic. The key is styling them the same way – both sleek and smooth or both tousled and textured.

Apply a smoothing serum to damp hair on both of you. Blow dry with a round brush, rolling the ends under for that classic bob shape. The bangs should be blown straight down or slightly side-swept, whichever you both prefer.

This mommy and daughter hairstyle is more about the cut than daily styling, which makes it perfect for busy mornings. Once you both have the haircut, maintaining the look takes minimal effort. Just a quick blow-dry and you’re matching.

7. Boho Dutch Braids

Ready to level up? Matching Dutch braids (also called inside-out braids) look intricate but follow a pretty simple pattern once you get the hang of it.

Part hair down the middle on both of you. Starting at the front, take three sections. Instead of crossing them over like a regular braid, cross them under. Keep adding hair from the sides as you work your way back. This creates that raised, dimensional braid effect.

Secure at the nape of your neck or continue braiding to the ends. The trick with mommy and me Dutch braids is loosening them up afterward. Gently pull on the edges of the braids to make them fuller and more relaxed. This creates that effortless boho vibe that’s having such a moment right now.

8. Twisted Bun Elegance

For special occasions, matching twisted buns bring serious sophistication. These look way fancier than they actually are to create.

Gather hair into a ponytail where you want the bun positioned – high for casual, low for formal. Divide the ponytail into two sections. Twist each section individually, then twist them around each other like a rope. Wrap this rope-twist around the ponytail base and secure with bobby pins.

The sculptural quality of these buns makes them perfect for weddings, fancy dinners, or holiday photos. I did these for my friend’s daughter’s first communion, and they held up beautifully through the entire ceremony and reception.

9. Vibrant Copper Curls

If you both rock red or copper tones in your hair, show them off with matching bouncy curls. This style celebrates your gorgeous color while adding volume and movement.

Use a color-depositing hair mask to keep those copper tones vibrant. Then, working with dry hair, curl sections with a curling iron. For your daughter, use a lower heat setting and smaller sections. For yourself, you can go with a larger barrel.

Alternate the direction of your curls (some toward your face, some away) for a more natural look. Finish with a light-hold hairspray. These vibrant, dimensional curls photograph beautifully and make your matching hair color really stand out.

10. Braided Ponytails with Boho Vibes

Want to dress up a basic ponytail? Braided ponytails add that extra something without requiring tons of time or skill.

Create a regular ponytail on both of you at whatever height you prefer. Then braid the ponytail portion. You can do a single braid down the middle or get creative with multiple small braids throughout the ponytail.

What I love about this mommy and me hairstyle is how customizable it is. Add some ribbon woven through the braids, wrap a small braid around the ponytail base, or leave some pieces out for face-framing softness. It’s simple enough for school mornings but interesting enough for special occasions.

11. Coordinating Headbands

For days when you literally have zero time or one of you is having a bad hair day, matching headbands save the day. This is the ultimate cheat code for mommy and daughter matching hairstyles.

Choose headbands in coordinating colors, patterns, or styles. You both can wear your hair however it naturally falls – down, in ponytails, whatever. The matching headbands create that coordinated look instantly.

Knotted fabric headbands are huge right now and work for all hair types. Velvet ones add a touch of elegance. Sporty athletic headbands are perfect for active days. Keep a collection of matching pairs and you’ll always have an easy matching option.

12. Double Dutch Braids

Double Dutch braids (one on each side) are the ultimate secure hairstyle for active kids while still looking adorable and coordinated on moms.

Part hair straight down the middle on both of you. Starting at the front on one side, create a Dutch braid working your way back, adding hair as you go. Secure at the nape. Repeat on the other side. The two braids should be parallel and relatively even.

These stay put through literally anything – gymnastics, swimming, running around all day. I’ve seen these mommy and me Dutch braids last two full days without needing to be redone. They’re also great for showing off highlights or multiple hair colors since the braided pattern displays different tones.

13. Classic Top Buns

The high bun never goes out of style. It’s sophisticated on moms, adorable on little girls, and takes about three minutes to create on both of you.

Gather hair into a high ponytail at your crown. Twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base in a circular motion. Secure with bobby pins, making sure to insert them in different directions so they actually hold. For a polished finish, wrap a small section of hair around the base to hide the elastic.

Do the same on your daughter’s hair. Her bun will be smaller and probably won’t need as many pins. These matching top buns work for literally any occasion – from ballet class to fancy restaurants.

14. Mirrored Bob Haircuts

Short-haired moms and daughters can rock matching bob haircuts for an effortlessly chic coordinated look. The beauty here is in the cut itself, not daily styling.

A classic bob hits anywhere from chin to shoulder length. You can both get the same length or scale hers slightly shorter if she’s younger. Style them the same way each day – either sleek and straight or with a slight wave.

This is the perfect low-maintenance mommy and me hairstyle for families always on the go. The haircut does the work, and you just need to brush and go most mornings.

15. Pretty Bows and Ribbons

Nothing says sweet like matching bows woven into your hairstyles. This works with almost any base style – ponytails, braids, buns, or half-up looks.

Choose ribbon in a color that coordinates with your outfits. Velvet ribbons look elegant and festive. Satin ribbons have a classic, feminine vibe. You can tie them around ponytail bases, weave them through braids, or attach bow clips to buns.

In my experience, this is the mommy and daughter hairstyle trick that gets the most compliments. There’s something about matching bows that people find absolutely adorable. Plus, it’s so easy that even the most styling-challenged moms can pull it off.

16. Mermaid Waves

For that effortlessly beautiful, beachy look, matching mermaid waves are absolutely gorgeous. These loose, flowing waves work on medium to long hair.

Start with damp hair on both of you. Apply a wave-enhancing spray or mousse. Braid hair into 2-3 loose braids and let them air dry completely (or sleep in them overnight). When you take out the braids, you’ll have natural-looking waves.

Run your fingers through to separate and soften. Use a curling iron to enhance any pieces that didn’t wave nicely. Finish with a texturizing spray for that beachy, lived-in texture.

These waves look gorgeous in family photos and work for both casual and dressier occasions. The best part? They actually look better slightly messy and imperfect.

Mommy and Me Hairstyles for Different Hair Types

Let’s talk about how to adapt these matching hairstyles for different hair textures. Because not all hair behaves the same way.

For Curly Hair: Embrace those curls! Mommy and me hairstyles for curly hair look best when you work with the natural texture rather than fighting it. Try matching pineapple buns (high, loose buns that preserve curl pattern), twisted half-up styles, or simply matching headbands with curls flowing free. Use a curl-defining cream on both of you and let those gorgeous spirals do their thing.

For Fine, Thin Hair: If you both have fine hair, add texture and grip before styling. Dry shampoo or texturizing spray is your best friend. Mommy and daughter hairstyles like messy buns, braided styles, and slightly teased ponytails all create the illusion of more volume. Don’t try to fight your hair type – styles that look intentionally undone work better than trying to achieve super sleek looks.

For Thick Hair: Lucky you! Thick hair holds styles forever. The challenge is usually the time it takes to style. Matching hairstyles for thick hair like Dutch braids, twisted buns, and secure ponytails work beautifully. You might need more bobby pins and stronger elastics, but once these styles are in, they’re not going anywhere.

For Different Textures: What if your hair is straight but your daughter’s is curly? Or vice versa? Focus on the overall shape and placement rather than identical texture. A high bun works on both curly and straight hair. Ponytails in the same position look coordinated even if the ponytail texture is different. Accessories like matching bows or headbands create cohesion without requiring identical hair texture.

Quick Mommy and Me Hairstyles for Busy Mornings

You might be wondering how to fit these matching hairstyles into already-hectic mornings. Here are my fastest options:

5-Minute Looks:

Matching high ponytails with wrapped bases
Messy buns (literally just twist and pin)
Coordinating headbands with hair down
Simple three-strand pigtail braids

10-Minute Looks:

Half-up styles with matching clips
Low twisted buns
Single braid down the back on both
Space buns

Save-for-Weekend Looks:

Dutch braids (these take practice and patience)
French braid buns
Multiple small braids woven together
Elaborate twisted updos

In my experience, having a few go-to quick styles memorized makes busy mornings so much easier. Pick two or three mommy and me hairstyles that you can do with your eyes closed, and rotate between those for school days.

Making It Fun: Tips for Wiggling Kids

Let’s be real – not every daughter sits perfectly still for hair styling. Here are some tricks I’ve learned for making mommy and me hairstyle time more enjoyable:

Set up a special styling spot. Whether it’s in front of a mirror or at the kitchen table, having a designated place makes it feel like a ritual, not a chore.

Use entertainment strategically. Pop on her favorite show or play a favorite song. Just don’t do this every time or it becomes an expectation.

Let her help. Give her a mirror to hold, let her pick the hair accessories, or have her hand you bobby pins. Feeling involved keeps her engaged.

Start small. If she’s not used to sitting for hair time, begin with quick 2-3 minute styles and gradually work up to longer ones as her patience builds.

Make it about connection, not perfection. Talk while you style. Ask about her day, tell her stories, sing silly songs. The bonding is more important than perfectly symmetrical braids.

Know when to quit. If she’s genuinely distressed or fighting it, that’s okay. Try a simpler style or just rock the matching headbands that day. It’s not worth tears.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Problem: Her hair is too short for the style I want to match Don’t force it. Choose styles that work for her current length and adapt your own hair to match. Half-up styles work on almost any length. So do accessories like matching clips or headbands.

Problem: My braiding skills are terrible Start with simple three-strand braids and practice on her stuffed animals or your own hair when she’s not around. There are tons of YouTube tutorials for mommy and me braid hairstyles. It genuinely just takes practice.

Problem: Her hair won’t hold styles Use more product than you think you need – but kids-safe versions. Detangling spray adds slip, light hold spray adds grip. Sometimes fine or freshly washed hair is just too slippery. Try styling on day-old hair instead.

Problem: We don’t have the same hair color Who cares? Mommy and me hairstyles are about the style coordination, not identical coloring. Different hair colors in the same style actually looks really cool and modern.

Problem: She keeps pulling her hair out This might mean the style is too tight or she’s not used to having her hair up. Try looser versions of styles. Make sure you’re not pulling hair too tightly – kid scalps are sensitive. Build up her tolerance gradually.

Occasions Perfect for Mommy and Me Hairstyles

Not sure when to rock these matching looks? Here are some perfect opportunities:

School Events: Picture day, school performances, mother-daughter school activities Holidays: Christmas cards, Easter photos, Halloween costumes, Thanksgiving dinner Special Occasions: Weddings, birthday parties, baptisms, first communions Everyday Fun: Grocery shopping, park dates, brunch, library trips Travel: Airport looks, vacation photos, theme park days Professional Events: If you’re bringing her to a work function or family business event Just Because: Honestly, any random Tuesday when you both feel like matching

The beauty of mommy and daughter hairstyles is that they work for literally any occasion. Dress them up or down with accessories and clothing choices.

Creating Lasting Memories

Here’s the thing about mommy and me hairstyles that nobody really talks about – they’re not just about looking cute. They’re about creating moments.

Years from now, your daughter won’t remember exactly how the braids looked or whether the buns were perfectly symmetrical. But she’ll remember standing in front of the mirror with you, feeling special because you took time to match with her. She’ll remember how it felt to see you both looking coordinated, like a team.

In my experience with my nieces and goddaughters, these hair moments become core memories. They’re the stories they tell their friends: “My mom and I always matched our hair.” They’re the photos they’ll look back on fondly when they’re grown.

So don’t stress too much about perfection. The messy attempts, the lopsided braids, the styles that fell out before you even left the house – those become the funny stories. The shared giggles when something goes wrong matter more than Instagram-perfect results.

Final Thoughts on Matching Hairstyles

Mommy and me hairstyles are one of those simple joys of motherhood that won’t last forever. Your daughter will grow up, develop her own style preferences, and eventually might not want to match with mom anymore (devastating but inevitable).

So embrace it while you can. Let her pick out ridiculous sparkly clips. Try that complicated braid even if you’re pretty sure it’ll turn out wonky. Take a million photos of your matching hair – you’ll treasure them someday.

Start with the easy styles from this list – the ponytails, buns, and headbands. Build your confidence and your daughter’s patience. Then gradually work up to the more complex braided looks if you’re feeling adventurous.

Remember that the best mommy and me hairstyle is whatever makes you both feel happy and connected. Whether that’s elaborate French braids or simple matching scrunchies doesn’t matter. It’s the time together, the shared experience, the feeling of being a team – that’s what counts.

So grab those hair ties, call your little one over, and create some matching magic. These are the moments that matter. Make them count.