Finding the right hairstyles for onam ensures a polished and festive appearance for the harvest season.
Traditional attire thrives when paired with hair that reflects the cultural joy of Kerala.
Explore these sophisticated options to find your ideal match for the upcoming celebrations.
1. Traditional Jasmine Braid Hairstyle for Onam
A long, thick braid is a quintessential choice for the festival season. This style involves a neat three-strand plait that rests centrally down the back.
Wrapping fresh jasmine garlands, or gajras, around the base and the length of the braid adds a fragrant touch. Gold hair ornaments can be pinned along the intersections for a luxury finish.
This choice perfectly complements the gold borders of a traditional ivory saree. It remains a timeless favorite for its grace and cultural significance.
2. Low Floral Messy Bun Hairstyle for Onam
A messy bun gathered at the nape of the neck offers a modern twist on tradition. It provides a relaxed yet sophisticated silhouette that works well with heavy jewelry.
To achieve this, secure the hair into a loose knot and pull out a few face-framing strands. Surround the bun with a thick layer of white flowers to maintain the festive theme.
This style is ideal for those who prefer a contemporary aesthetic. It keeps the hair secure and away from the face during busy festivities.
3. Half Up Curls Hairstyle for Onam
Combining structured curls with a half-up section creates a voluminous and airy look. The top portion is pinned back, while the rest flows freely over the shoulders.
Using a curling wand helps define the lower sections of the hair. Adding a small floral clip or a single jasmine string at the pinning point enhances the festive vibe.
This is a versatile choice that suits various hair lengths. It provides a soft, romantic appearance that balances the structured lines of a saree.
4. Classic Fishbone Braid Hairstyle for Onam
The fishbone braid is an intricate alternative to the standard three-strand plait. It offers a detailed texture that looks particularly striking with thick hair.
Tightly weaving small sections of hair creates a pattern that appears both complex and elegant. For a festive touch, weave small decorative beads or tiny flowers into the links.
This hairstyle stays secure for long periods, making it practical for day-long events. It adds a touch of craftsmanship to the overall ensemble.
5. Sleek Low Ponytail Hairstyle for Onam
A sleek ponytail positioned at the base of the neck provides a minimalist and high-fashion look. This style emphasizes the shine and health of the hair.
Applying a smoothing serum ensures a frizz-free finish before securing the hair with a discreet tie. Wrap a section of hair or a thin jasmine string around the band to hide it.
This look is excellent for showcasing statement earrings or heavy necklaces. It brings a sharp, modern edge to the traditional Kerala attire.
6. Side Swept Braided Hairstyle for Onam
Draping a braid over one shoulder creates an asymmetrical look that is very photogenic. This style focuses the visual interest on one side of the face and neck.
A loose French braid starting from the temple and leading into a standard plait works best. Secure the end with a traditional gold tassel for an authentic touch.
This arrangement allows the intricate details of a blouse back to remain visible. It is a graceful option that feels both comfortable and stylish.
7. Floral Donut Bun Hairstyle for Onam
The donut bun is a structured, circular hairstyle that sits firmly at the back of the head. It provides a clean and balanced profile from every angle.
Using a foam hair donut helps create a uniform shape even for those with thinner hair. Cover the entire circumference of the bun with a dense layer of jasmine or orange flowers.
This style is a favorite for formal religious ceremonies. It ensures the hair remains perfectly in place while highlighting the floral elements.
8. Center Parted Open Hair for Onam
Keeping the hair open with a sharp center part is a simple yet impactful choice. It allows the natural texture of the hair to take center stage.
Straightening the hair or adding very light waves at the ends provides a polished look. A “maang tikka” or traditional headpiece can be placed along the parting for extra sparkle.
This style is effortless and requires minimal maintenance throughout the day. It offers a fresh and youthful interpretation of festive styling.
9. Bubble Braid With Gold Ornaments for Onam
The bubble braid is a trendy and playful variation of the traditional ponytail. It involves creating “bubbles” of hair using multiple elastic bands along the length.
Gently tugging at each section creates volume and a rounded shape. Placing gold rings or decorative pins at each elastic band bridges the gap between modern and traditional.
This is a fun and creative way to wear hair during the celebrations. it is especially effective for those with very long hair.
10. Twisted Side Bun Hairstyle for Onam
A side bun created with twisted sections of hair offers a romantic and soft texture. It is positioned just below the ear for a sophisticated silhouette.
Twisting sections from the front and securing them into the bun adds depth to the style. A few sprigs of flowers tucked into the twists provide a delicate finish.
This look is perfect for evening gatherings or Onam dinners. It provides an elegant frame for the face and works well with all hair types.
11. Loose Waves With Gajra for Onam
Loose, flowing waves paired with a traditional floral gajra offer a relaxed and beautiful aesthetic. The hair is left down with waves starting from the mid-length.
A single or double string of jasmine is pinned across the back of the head like a crown. This mixes the freedom of open hair with the tradition of floral decoration.
This style feels less formal than a tight bun but remains festive. It is an excellent middle ground for casual Onam lunches at home.
12. Double Dutch Braid Hairstyle for Onam
Double Dutch braids provide a sporty yet traditional look that is highly secure. Two braids run parallel from the hairline down to the nape.
The braids can be joined into a single plait or left as two separate tails. Adding small floral studs along the ridges of the braids adds a festive pop of color.
This hairstyle is practical for those participating in active festival events like “Pookalam” making. It keeps the hair completely out of the way.
13. Puffed High Bun Hairstyle for Onam
Adding a small puff at the crown before securing a high bun creates height and drama. This style elongates the neck and provides a regal appearance.
Backcombing the front section of the hair helps achieve the desired volume. The high bun can be decorated with a base of flowers or gold pins.
This is a powerful look that suits grand celebrations. It ensures the wearer stands out while maintaining a traditional foundation.
14. Waterfall Braid With Floral Pins for Onam
The waterfall braid involves weaving hair so that sections appear to “fall” through the braid. It creates a horizontal pattern across the back of the head.
Pinning small, individual flowers like rosebuds or jasmine at each “drop” enhances the visual effect. This works best on straight or slightly wavy hair.
This style is intricate and shows off the length and color of the hair. It is a sophisticated choice for those who want a unique braided look.
15. South Indian Long Braid Hairstyle for Onam
This iconic style focuses on maximizing the length and ornamentation of a central braid. It often utilizes hair extensions to achieve a dramatic floor-length look.
The braid is heavily decorated with “Jadai” ornaments and wrapped in layers of flowers. It is the most traditional and formal option for the harvest festival.
This hairstyle is a statement piece in itself. It is deeply rooted in cultural heritage and pairs exceptionally well with heavy silk sarees.
16. French Braid With Jasmine Garland for Onam
A French braid offers a neat and tucked-in look that starts from the very top of the head. It incorporates all the hair into a single, seamless plait.
Weaving a thin jasmine garland directly into the strands as you braid creates a floral-infused style. This ensures the flowers are part of the structure rather than just an accessory.
This is a tidy and practical choice that looks very organized. It is suitable for those who want a clean look that lasts from morning until night.
17. Voluminous Side Braid Hairstyle for Onam
A thick, voluminous braid pulled to one side creates a soft and approachable festive look. Pancaking the braid by gently pulling the loops wide increases the perceived thickness.
Small gold beads or colorful threads can be interwoven to match the specific colors of the Onam outfit. A single large flower at the top of the braid adds a focal point.
This style is comfortable and does not put too much tension on the scalp. It provides a relaxed elegance that is perfect for celebrating with family.
How to style hairstyles for onam with short hair?
For shorter hair lengths, focusing on floral accessories is the best approach. You can create a half-up style using small clips or use a floral headband that mimics the look of a traditional gajra. Small side twists or braids can also be pinned back and decorated with fresh jasmine to maintain the festive spirit without needing long tresses.
Which flowers are best for hairstyles for onam?
Jasmine is the most traditional and popular choice for the festival due to its white color and strong fragrance. However, you can also use orange marigolds, red roses, or crossandra flowers to add a pop of color that matches your saree. Many people choose a combination of white jasmine and a colorful flower to create a layered and vibrant floral arrangement.
How to keep hairstyles for onam secure all day?
To ensure your style lasts through all the festivities, start with hair that has some grip, perhaps by using a bit of dry shampoo or texturizing spray. Use high-quality U-pins and bobby pins that match your hair color to secure buns and braids. Finally, a light-hold hairspray can keep flyaways in check without making the hair look stiff or unnatural.
Can I use hair accessories for hairstyles for onam?
Yes, traditional gold accessories are highly encouraged to complete the look. Items like “Jadanagam” (braid covers), “Suryachandran” (sun and moon discs), and gold hair pins are classic choices. These metallic elements reflect the gold borders of the Kasavu saree and add a sense of luxury and tradition to any chosen hairstyle.
What are the easiest hairstyles for onam to do at home?
A simple low bun decorated with a jasmine string or a basic three-strand braid are the easiest styles to master at home. Another quick option is the half-up, half-down look, which only requires pinning back the top section of your hair. These styles are straightforward but look very festive when paired with the right flowers and jewelry.
Should I choose open or tied hairstyles for onam?
The choice depends on your comfort and the specific events you are attending. Tied hairstyles like buns and braids are more traditional and practical for outdoor events or temple visits as they stay neat. Open hairstyles offer a more modern and relaxed feel, which can be great for indoor family gatherings and photo sessions.
