Choosing the right onam hairstyles for women is essential for completing your traditional look during the harvest festival of Kerala. These classic styles perfectly complement the gold-bordered Kasavu saree.
The traditional aesthetic relies heavily on the use of fresh jasmine flowers and elegant braiding techniques. Every woman can find a style that suits her hair length and facial features.
Whether you prefer a sophisticated bun or a cascading braid, these options ensure you look radiant. Explore these timeless choices to celebrate the spirit of Onam with grace and style.
1. Traditional Kerala Braid Onam Hairstyles for Women
The long, thick braid is a hallmark of Kerala tradition and remains a top choice for women during the festive season. This style typically involves a neat three-strand braid that extends down the back. It creates a structured and elegant silhouette that pairs beautifully with the white and gold tones of the traditional saree.
To achieve this look, hair is often smoothed down with a light oil or serum to prevent flyaways. The braid is kept tight and uniform from the nape of the neck to the ends. It provides a stable base for the heavy floral decorations that are synonymous with the festival.
Fresh jasmine flowers, known as Pichipoo or Mulla, are wrapped around the length of the braid or fixed at the base. Many women also add gold-toned hair ornaments or “Nettichutti” for a more regal appearance. This style is perfect for long-haired women looking for a cultural connection.
2. Low Floral Bun Onam Hairstyles for Women
A low bun positioned at the nape of the neck offers a sophisticated and mature look for women during Onam celebrations. This hairstyle is versatile and works well for medium to long hair lengths. It provides a clean canvas for displaying intricate floral arrangements that circle the bun entirely.
The hair is gathered and secured into a neat coil or a donut bun to ensure it stays in place throughout the day’s festivities. Women often choose this style when they want to highlight their jewelry, such as heavy Jhumkas or necklaces. It keeps the hair away from the face while maintaining a soft, feminine aesthetic.
The decoration usually involves several layers of jasmine or even orange marigolds for a pop of color. Using U-pins helps secure the flowers firmly so they do not slip during the Onam Sadya or cultural dances. This look is a favorite for those who value comfort without sacrificing traditional elegance.
3. Half Up Flower Onam Hairstyles for Women
The half-up, half-down style is an excellent option for women who want to showcase their hair length while keeping it manageable. It involves taking sections of hair from the sides and pinning them at the back. This creates a youthful and breezy look that is perfect for daytime Onam events.
The top section can be lightly teased to add volume, while the lower section is left to fall naturally over the shoulders. This style works exceptionally well for women with wavy or curly hair textures. It offers a modern twist on tradition while still respecting the cultural dress code.
Floral accents are typically placed at the point where the two side sections meet at the back of the head. Small sprigs of jasmine or even a single rose can be used to add a festive touch. It is an ideal choice for women who find full braids or buns too heavy for long hours.
4. Side Braid Gold Accessory Onam Hairstyles for Women
Bringing the braid over one shoulder adds a contemporary and photogenic element to the traditional Onam look. This side-swept style allows the intricate details of the braid and its decorations to be visible from the front. It is a popular choice for women who enjoy a slightly more relaxed and modern silhouette.
The braid can be a standard three-strand version or a more complex fishtail braid depending on the time available. Keeping the hair loose around the face can soften the features and create a more romantic appearance. It is a highly functional style that keeps the hair secure while looking intentionally styled.
Incorporating gold-toned clips or small metallic rings throughout the braid adds a touch of luxury. When paired with the golden border of a Kasavu saree, these accessories create a cohesive and high-end festive look. Small flower buds can also be tucked into the links of the braid for added texture.
5. Loose Wave Flower Onam Hairstyles for Women
For women who prefer a more natural and effortless vibe, loose waves adorned with flowers are a perfect fit. This style moves away from tight braids and focuses on the hair’s natural flow and volume. It is particularly flattering for women with medium-length hair who want a soft, festive glow.
The waves can be created using a curling iron or by braiding damp hair overnight for a heat-free option. The key is to keep the texture soft and touchable rather than stiff or overly styled. This approach brings a sense of modern femininity to the traditional Kerala attire.
A string of jasmine can be worn as a headband or pinned behind one ear to maintain the Onam theme. This minimal use of flowers allows the texture of the hair to remain the focal point. It is a great choice for casual family gatherings or temple visits where a heavy hairstyle might feel excessive.
6. High Jasmine Bun Onam Hairstyles for Women
A high bun creates an elongated silhouette and offers a more formal and regal appearance for women. Positioned at the crown or the middle of the back of the head, this style is excellent for keeping the neck cool during the humid festival season. It provides a very neat and polished finish that lasts all day.
This style requires the hair to be pulled back smoothly, often using a bit of gel or wax to ensure a sleek look. The bun itself can be made large and voluminous using a hair donut if the natural hair is fine. This creates a dramatic base for the floral decorations that follow.
Wrapping several thick layers of jasmine around the base of the bun is the traditional way to finish this look. The contrast between the dark hair and the white flowers is particularly striking in this elevated position. It is a classic choice for women who are participating in formal Onam programs or stage events.
7. Fishtail Braid Floral Onam Hairstyles for Women
The fishtail braid offers a more intricate and detailed texture than the standard three-strand braid for women. While it takes a bit more time to execute, the resulting pattern is sophisticated and visually interesting. It is a wonderful way to update the traditional Kerala look for a younger demographic.
The braid is usually started at the nape of the neck and kept quite tight to maintain the definition of the weave. This style works best on straight or slightly wavy hair where the pattern can be clearly seen. It adds a layer of modern craftsmanship to the classic Onam ensemble.
Small flowers can be pinned into the “V” shapes of the braid to create a scattered floral effect. Alternatively, a single long strand of jasmine can be intertwined with one of the sections while braiding. This creates a unique fusion of contemporary braiding and traditional floral adornment.
8. Front Puff Flower Onam Hairstyles for Women
Adding a puff at the front of the head can add height and change the face shape for a more flattering look. This technique involves backcombing a small section of hair at the hairline and pinning it back before continuing with the rest of the style. It is a popular modification for both braids and buns among women.
The puff adds a touch of glamour and ensures the hair doesn’t look flat against the forehead. It works well for women with rounder faces as it provides a lengthening effect. The rest of the hair can then be styled into a traditional braid or left loose.
Flowers are typically placed at the back where the puff is secured, creating a bridge between the front volume and the rest of the hairstyle. This style is often seen in South Indian weddings and has become a staple for festive occasions like Onam. It balances modern volume with traditional elements perfectly.
9. Messy Rose Bun Onam Hairstyles for Women
The messy bun provides a relaxed and artistic alternative to the strictly neat traditional styles for women. By allowing a few strands to fall loose and keeping the bun soft, this look feels very contemporary. It is ideal for the modern woman who wants to blend her everyday style with festive traditions.
Unlike the tight Kerala bun, this version uses more pins and less tension to hold the hair in place. The texture should look intentional but not overly “done.” This style is especially beautiful for evening Onam dinners or more casual get-togethers with friends.
While jasmine is the standard, adding a few red or pink roses to a messy bun creates a beautiful color contrast against a Kasavu saree. The roses add a romantic and slightly different aesthetic compared to the all-white floral look. This variation allows for more personal expression during the festival.
10. Twisted Half Up Onam Hairstyles for Women
The twisted half-up style involves taking two sections of hair from the temples, twisting them tightly, and meeting them at the center. This creates a beautiful crown-like effect around the head for women. It is a simple yet effective way to add detail to a look where the hair is mostly left down.
This style is very secure and keeps the hair away from the face, making it practical for a busy day of festivities. The twists add a nice textural element that looks great from both the side and the back. It is particularly suited for medium-length hair that might be too short for a full braid.
The point where the twists meet can be adorned with a decorative clip or a small bunch of jasmine flowers. Because the style is relatively simple, you can afford to be more generous with the floral accents. It is a quick and easy way for women to achieve a festive look at home.
11. Floral Bubble Braid Onam Hairstyles for Women
The bubble braid is a trendy and playful hairstyle that has been adapted for traditional occasions by many women. It involves creating a ponytail and then placing elastics at regular intervals down the length, pulling the hair out to create “bubbles.” This adds significant volume and a modern geometric look.
To make this style festive, each elastic section can be hidden or decorated. This style is perfect for women with very long hair who want something different from the standard braid. It provides a unique silhouette that stands out during Onam celebrations.
Small flowers or individual jasmine buds can be pinned at each elastic point to create a repetitive floral pattern. This creates a very structured and “designed” look that is sure to draw compliments. It is an excellent example of how traditional floral elements can be used with modern hair trends.
12. Sleek Straight Floral Onam Hairstyles for Women
A sleek, straight hairstyle offers a minimalist and high-fashion approach to the Onam look for women. By using a flat iron to achieve a glass-like finish, the focus remains on the hair’s health and shine. This style is incredibly elegant when paired with the crisp, clean lines of a traditional saree.
The hair is usually parted in the middle or strictly to one side to maintain the polished aesthetic. It is a low-maintenance style that doesn’t require constant adjusting throughout the day. This look is favored by women who prefer a “clean girl” aesthetic even during traditional festivals.
To give this modern style an Onam twist, a single strand of flowers can be pinned behind one ear or worn as a floral “tiara.” The simplicity of the straight hair makes the white flowers pop even more. It is a sophisticated way to respect tradition while staying true to a modern personal style.
13. Braided Crown Flower Onam Hairstyles for Women
The braided crown, or halo braid, wraps around the head to create a regal and ethereal look for women. This style is perfect for keeping all the hair tucked away securely while creating a very feminine frame for the face. It is often chosen for its durability and classic beauty.
The braid can be a Dutch or French style that starts at one side and circles all the way to the other. It requires some skill to execute but the result is a stunning 360-degree hairstyle. This style is especially useful for women who will be very active during the festival.
Jasmine flowers can be woven directly into the braid as you create it, or pinned on top afterward. This gives the appearance of a natural floral crown that fits the harvest festival theme perfectly. It is a timeless look that works for women of all ages.
14. Side Swept Curl Onam Hairstyles for Women
Side-swept curls provide a glamorous and red-carpet-ready look for women celebrating Onam. By pinning all the hair to one side and letting voluminous curls cascade over the shoulder, you create a very flattering asymmetry. This style is great for showcasing statement earrings on the exposed side.
The curls should be well-defined and treated with a light-hold hairspray to ensure they don’t fall flat. This style adds a lot of movement and life to the traditional outfit. It is a popular choice for evening events and Onam parties where a more dramatic look is desired.
A large floral clip or a thick strand of jasmine can be used to secure the hair on the “swept” side. This keeps the hair in place while providing a beautiful floral detail near the ear. It is a sophisticated blend of Western glamour and Indian tradition.
15. French Braid Gajara Onam Hairstyles for Women
The French braid is a classic technique that starts at the top of the head and incorporates hair as it moves down. For Onam, women often use this style to ensure a secure and neat look from the roots to the tips. It offers a very structured and traditional feel that is highly practical.
The braid stays close to the scalp, which helps in managing heavy or thick hair types during the long festival days. It provides a very “put-together” appearance that works for both formal rituals and casual gatherings. Many women find this to be the most reliable style for multi-day celebrations.
A “Gajara” or floral string is often pinned at the very top of the braid or wrapped around the end. Because the braid is so secure, it can easily support the weight of multiple floral strings. This is a quintessential South Indian look that never goes out of style.
16. Donut Bun Floral Onam Hairstyles for Women
Using a hair donut allows women to achieve a perfectly symmetrical and large bun regardless of their natural hair thickness. This style is all about precision and a clean, circular shape. It provides a very professional and elegant finish that complements the structured drape of a saree.
The hair is smoothed over the donut form and secured with elastics and pins to hide the tool completely. This results in a voluminous bun that serves as a massive canvas for flowers. It is an excellent choice for women with shorter or finer hair who still want the traditional “big bun” look.
The entire circumference of the donut bun is usually covered in dense layers of jasmine. Some women also place a decorative gold ornament in the center of the bun for added flair. This look is iconic for Onam and remains a top choice for traditional photography.
17. Multi Strand Braid Onam Hairstyles for Women
Moving beyond the three-strand braid, a four or five-strand braid offers a wider and flatter look for women. This style creates a more “tapestry-like” effect that is very eye-catching. It is a great way to showcase the skill of the stylist and the beauty of the hair.
The wider surface area of the braid makes it even easier to decorate with larger flowers or more jewelry. It sits flat against the back, which can be more comfortable for some women than a thick, round braid. This variation adds a touch of uniqueness to the standard Onam ensemble.
Intertwining ribbons or gold threads between the multiple strands can further enhance the festive look. When combined with traditional jasmine, the result is a rich and textured hairstyle. It is a sophisticated choice for women who want to elevate their traditional appearance.
18. Short Hair Flower Onam Hairstyles for Women
Women with short hair can also embrace the spirit of Onam with creative floral styling. While braids and buns might not be possible, short hair can be styled with waves or a sleek finish to look festive. The focus here is on using accessories to bridge the gap between modern cuts and traditional themes.
A small side-braid or a simple twist can be used to provide a place to anchor flowers. Even a simple bob can be transformed by pinning a beautiful string of jasmine behind the ears. This shows that the Onam spirit is about the elements used, not just the length of the hair.
Using floral headbands or small decorative clips with flower motifs is a great way to add festive cheer to short hair. It keeps the look light and manageable while ensuring the woman feels part of the traditional celebration. This approach is inclusive and stylish for the modern short-haired woman.
Which flowers are best for onam hairstyles for women?
Jasmine is the most traditional and popular choice for these hairstyles due to its fragrance and cultural significance. However, many women also use orange or yellow marigolds to add a splash of color that matches the festive Pookalam. Roses and crossandra flowers are also common additions for a more vibrant and contemporary look.
Can I do onam hairstyles for women with short hair?
Yes, women with short hair can definitely achieve a festive Onam look by using floral accessories and creative styling. You can create small side twists or braids to pin jasmine strands, or even use a floral headband. Another option is to use high-quality hair extensions if you specifically want to achieve the traditional long braid look.
How to keep jasmine fresh in onam hairstyles for women?
To keep jasmine fresh throughout the day, it is best to keep the flowers in the refrigerator until the moment you are ready to style your hair. Some women also lightly mist the flowers with water or keep them wrapped in a damp cloth before use. Choosing tightly budded flowers that will open during the day also helps maintain freshness and fragrance.
What are the easiest onam hairstyles for women at home?
The easiest styles to do yourself at home are the half-up, half-down look or a simple side-swept braid. These require minimal tools and can be easily adorned with a string of jasmine to look instantly festive. A low bun is also manageable with the help of a hair donut and a few U-pins for a more polished finish.
Do onam hairstyles for women require many hair accessories?
While fresh flowers are the primary accessory, you don’t necessarily need a lot of other items. A few U-pins, hair elastics, and perhaps a decorative gold clip or “Nettichutti” for the forehead are usually enough. The goal is to let the natural beauty of the hair and the freshness of the flowers be the main focus.
How to secure a heavy gajara in onam hairstyles for women?
The best way to secure a heavy gajara is to use plenty of sturdy U-pins and ensure they are anchored into the base of your braid or bun. You can also use a thin thread to tie the ends of the floral string to your hair elastics for extra security. Distributing the weight evenly around the bun or down the braid prevents the style from pulling or sagging.
