18 Onam Hairstyles from Traditional Braids to Modern Looks

Onam is a time of vibrant colors, fragrant flowers, and timeless traditions. Your hairstyle plays a pivotal role in completing the iconic festive look.

Finding the perfect balance between heritage and personal style can be exciting. Whether you prefer classic weaves or contemporary twists, there is a style for everyone.

This guide explores a variety of stunning options for the season. Discover how to elevate your festive ensemble with these elegant hair inspirations.

Explore these 18 Onam Hairstyles from Traditional Braids to Modern Looks to find your perfect match. Let your hair reflect the joy of the harvest festival.

1. Traditional Long Braid with Mulla Poo

The quintessential Kerala look starts with a neat, long three-strand braid. It embodies the grace of the festival and complements the Kasavu saree perfectly.

To achieve this, use hair extensions if needed for extra length and volume. Wrap fresh jasmine garlands (Mulla Poo) spirally around the entire length of the braid.

This style remains a timeless favorite for its simplicity and cultural significance. It creates a stunning visual contrast against dark hair and white gold-bordered attire.

2. Jasmine-Wrapped High Bun

A high bun offers a sophisticated and clean look that keeps hair off the shoulders. This is particularly practical for the humid weather often experienced during the festival.

Secure your hair into a firm top knot at the crown of your head. Use a donut bun maker to ensure the shape remains perfectly spherical and secure.

Finish the look by circling the base of the bun with multiple layers of fresh jasmine. This adds a fragrant, halo-like effect that elevates the entire aesthetic.

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3. Half-Up Half-Down with Loose Curls

This style bridges the gap between casual comfort and festive elegance. It allows you to showcase your hair length while keeping the face clear and bright.

Section off the top half of your hair and secure it with a decorative gold clip. Use a curling iron to create soft, cascading waves through the bottom section.

This look works beautifully with floral accessories tucked into the central clasp. It provides a romantic feel that pairs well with both sarees and set-mundus.

4. Side Fishtail Braid with Floral Accents

The fishtail braid offers an intricate texture that looks much more complex than it actually is. It brings a bohemian touch to the traditional Onam celebration.

Sweep all your hair to one side and weave it into a tight or slightly loosened fishtail. This positioning allows the detail of the braid to be visible in photos.

Intersperse tiny flower buds or small gold beads throughout the plaits. This subtle detailing makes the hairstyle look like a curated piece of art.

5. Bubble Braid with Gold Accessories

The bubble braid is a trendy, modern alternative to the standard plait. It provides immense volume and a playful silhouette that stands out in a crowd.

Create a ponytail and place elastics every two inches down the length. Gently tug the hair between the elastics to create rounded, bubble-like sections.

Hide the elastics by clipping small gold “Jhumka” pins or traditional motifs over them. This fusion approach perfectly blends contemporary fashion with Kerala’s golden heritage.

6. Sleek Low Bun with Gajra

A sleek low bun is the epitome of understated elegance and classic Indian beauty. It provides a canvas that allows your jewelry and saree border to shine.

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Apply a light smoothing serum to achieve a mirror-like shine before pulling hair into a low nape knot. Ensure no flyaways are visible for a polished finish.

Wrap a thick “Gajra” of jasmine or marigolds around the bun for a burst of color. This style is highly durable and stays intact throughout long festival rituals.

7. Messy Low Bun with Baby’s Breath

For those who prefer a softer, more effortless look, the messy low bun is ideal. It feels modern and lightweight while still appearing festive and deliberate.

Pull your hair back loosely, allowing a few tendrils to frame your face naturally. Secure the bun with pins, leaving the ends slightly tucked for a textured effect.

Instead of traditional jasmine, use sprigs of Baby’s Breath for a delicate, white-cloud appearance. This provides a contemporary floral alternative that looks ethereal and fresh.

8. French Braid into a Side Ponytail

This hybrid hairstyle offers the security of a braid with the movement of a ponytail. It is a dynamic choice for a day filled with activities.

Start a French braid at one temple and work it diagonally across the back of the head. Stop at the opposite ear and secure the remaining hair into a ponytail.

Curling the ends of the ponytail adds a touch of glamour to the look. It is an excellent way to manage thick hair while maintaining a stylish edge.

9. Traditional Kerala Kasavu Hair Bow Style

Integrating fabric into the hair is a creative way to match your outfit perfectly. This look uses a strip of Kasavu cloth as a primary accessory.

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Create a simple half-up style or a low ponytail as your base. Tie a thin strip of gold-bordered white fabric into a bow over the hair tie.

The fabric bow acts as a focal point that ties the entire ensemble together. It is a unique way to celebrate the textile heritage of the region.

10. Voluminous Open Hair with a Floral Crown

Sometimes, leaving your hair down is the most striking choice you can make. This style focuses on health, shine, and natural movement during the festivities.

Blow-dry your hair with a round brush to achieve maximum volume at the roots. Add a slight bend to the ends for a sophisticated, bouncy finish.

Place a crown of fresh flowers—like roses or jasmine—across the top of your head. This creates a “Pookalam” inspired look that is both regal and festive.

11. Dutch Braids with Gold Beads

Dutch braids, also known as inverted braids, sit on top of the hair for a 3D effect. They offer a sporty yet traditional vibe that is very secure.

Create two parallel Dutch braids starting from the hairline and running back to the nape. You can join them into one braid or keep them separate.

Thread small gold beads or rings through the loops of the braid for a metallic pop. This adds a “warrior-princess” aesthetic to the traditional festive attire.

12. Sophisticated Chignon with Gold Pins

A chignon is a classic French twist that translates beautifully into Indian festive wear. It is a refined choice for formal Onam gatherings and feasts.

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Gather the hair at the nape and tuck it inward to create a smooth, horizontal roll. Secure it firmly with U-pins to maintain the sleek silhouette.

Insert several decorative gold pins with pearl drops into the side of the roll. This adds a touch of luxury without the need for fresh flowers.

13. Twisted Rope Braid with Floral Tassels

The rope braid uses two strands twisted around each other to create a cord-like appearance. It is a modern alternative to the standard three-strand plait.

Ensure the hair is well-hydrated with oil or serum to prevent frizz in the twists. Secure the end with a clear elastic to keep the pattern visible.

Attach floral tassels or “Kunjalam” to the very end of the braid for a traditional finish. This adds weight and swing to your hair as you move.

14. Side-Swept Hollywood Waves

Bringing global glamour to Onam, side-swept waves offer a high-fashion look. This style is perfect for those wearing contemporary saree drapes or fusion wear.

Part your hair deeply on one side and use a large barrel curler for uniform waves. Brush through the curls to create a seamless, flowing red-carpet texture.

Pin the smaller side back with a heavy gold statement brooch. This keeps the hair away from the face while showcasing a beautiful piece of jewelry.

15. Braided Halo (Crown Braid)

The braided halo wraps around the head like a literal crown, making it a regal choice. It is a fantastic way to manage long hair elegantly.

Begin braiding at one side and continue around the circumference of the head, picking up hair as you go. Tuck the tail end invisibly into the start point.

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Interweave thin strands of jasmine or gold thread into the braid as you create it. This results in a continuous circle of beauty that frames the face perfectly.

16. Double Dutch Braids with Ribbon

This style is excellent for active festival days, ensuring your hair stays perfectly in place. It offers a youthful and energetic appearance for the season.

Braid two sections tightly from the front to the back of the head. Instead of ending at the nape, continue the braids all the way to the tips.

Weave a gold or red ribbon into the braids to add a pop of color and texture. This coordinates beautifully with the vibrant hues of the Onam “Pookalam.”

17. Classic Poff with Open Hair

The “Poff” or front puff adds height to the crown and can make the face appear more elongated. it is a staple style in many South Indian celebrations.

Tease a small section of hair at the front and pin it back to create volume. Leave the rest of the hair flowing straight or in gentle waves.

This style allows you to wear a “Maang Tikka” or “Nethi Chutti” very comfortably. It balances the weight of the jewelry with the height of the hair.

18. Waterfall Braid with Tiny Jasmine Buds

The waterfall braid creates the illusion of hair cascading through a braided “fence.” It is an ethereal and intricate look that is highly photogenic.

As you braid across the back of the head, drop one strand and pick up a new one. This creates the signature “falling” effect of the hair strands.

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Place a tiny jasmine bud at every point where the hair drops through the braid. This creates a stunning floral pattern that looks delicate and intentional.

Which flowers are best for Onam hairstyles?

Jasmine (Mulla Poo) is the traditional choice due to its white color and sweet fragrance. However, many people now use orange marigolds or red roses to add a vibrant contrast to the white Kasavu saree.

Can I achieve these looks with short hair?

Absolutely, many of these styles can be adapted. For shorter hair, focus on the half-up styles or use high-quality hair extensions to achieve the length required for traditional braids and buns.

How do I keep flowers fresh all day?

To keep flowers fresh, keep them in a cool place or refrigerator until the moment you style your hair. You can also lightly mist them with water occasionally, but avoid getting the water directly on your styled hair.

Do I need professional help for these styles?

While the intricate braids like the Waterfall or Crown braid might benefit from a stylist, many looks like the Sleek Bun or Half-Up styles are DIY-friendly. Practice a few days before the festival to master the technique.

What hair accessories complement Onam looks?

Gold-toned accessories are the standard for Onam. Look for Jhumka-style pins, gold beads, or even “Nethi Chutti” (forehead jewelry) to enhance the traditional Kerala aesthetic of your chosen hairstyle.

How can I make my braid look thicker?

If your hair is thin, you can “pancake” your braid by gently pulling on the edges of each section to flatten and widen it. Using a volumizing spray before braiding also helps create the illusion of more hair.