A Styling Guide For ONAM

Onam- one of the most awaited festivals of the year. From dressing up in the best of traditional wear to feasting on the delicious Sadhya meals, this festival is a treasured part of our heritage and one that we look forward to every year with great anticipation.

One might say that dressing up is one of the best parts of the entire festival. Something about donning a traditional saree paired with Indian jewellery designs reminds us of the great beauty and richness of our culture.

In this article, we will be discussing some of the ways you can style your clothes for Onam, some tips and tricks for accessorising and makeup, so that you look and feel your best and enjoy the festival to the fullest. 

What Should You Wear For ONAM?

While a white Kasavu pattu saree with a gold zari border is the traditional choice for Onam, you can experiment with other Indian weaves, to add a touch of vibrancy and bring your own unique element to the celebrations.

1.A Banarasi Saree

There is literally no occasion where a beautiful Banarasi saree won’t be the best choice of attire. Its stunning colours and intricate zari work, embody prime Indian craftsmanship and the diversity of our nation. 

2.Kanchi Pattu Saree

Just like the Banarasi, the Kanchi Pattu saree is a beautiful choice for Onam celebrations. With the inherent shine of its fabric and the traditional motifs on the saree’s body made by rich zari threads, this is a perfect choice of attire for such an auspicious festival. 

3.Paithani Silk Sarees

At a first glance, the Paithani saree might seem like an untraditional choice when compared to the more sombre hues of Onam. 

However, the colours, patterns, and beauty of a Paithani saree are a reminder of India’s rich cultural diversity and our shared values of inclusivity and respect. These are the values that we primarily celebrate in Onam, making the Paithani saree a great choice for the festival. 

4.Patola Sarees

Just like the Paithani, the Patola sarees being a colourful element that mesmerises with its colours and patterns. The rich pallus and borders create an elegant silhouette on the wearer, creating a festive moment worth remembering. 

5.Chanderi Sarees

The lightweight Chanderi saree with its beautiful glow and elegant sheer quality is a favourite of women for festive wear. 

Paired with flowers in the hair and minimal jewellery, this is a perfect outfit for most occasions, especially an auspicious festival like Onam. It also helps that the beauty of any colour is naturally made better by the weave of a Chanderi saree. 

6.Fancy Sarees

For those of you who want to use your fancy sarees, like organza, chiffon, georgette, or net, you will be happy to know that with the right styling, they make the perfect fit for the Onam festival. 

Pair it with some traditional gold jewellery and a bindi, and it makes for the perfect festive wear. 

Other Ways to Style Your Festive Wear

If you want to dress in a more contemporary fashion this Onam, the following guidelines and ideas may help you:

• Styling a saree as a lehenga will always be a classic choice. Pleat the saree around your waist and you have a luxurious looking lehenga. Additionally, this gives you the opportunity to get creative with your outfits. You can use a different saree as your dupatta, creating a beautiful silhouette. 
• A sharara or a simple kurta paired with the right jewellery can be a trendy and comfortable outfit for the occasion. 
• If you are in an experimental mood, you can try draping your saree differently. Wear it like a lehenga with a kurta, or drape the pallu around your neck instead of letting it fall over your shoulder. 
• Wearing a belt over your saree is also a great style choice that is here to stay. 

How To Accessorise Your Festive Wear?

Accessories are one of the most exciting elements of any outfit. They can either tone down the outfit to make it more simple or elevate it to fit the grandeur of an occasion. We are listing a few ways in which you can accessorise your outfit to suit your tastes and the needs of the day:

• Earrings are the most visible and impactful jewellery in any outfit. Wearing gold jewellery on Onam is a popular choice. However, you can choose more contemporary designs to add a modern touch to your saree. 
• If you wish to forego the earrings, try wearing a statement necklace and headpiece to balance the look. 
• In some cases, just the headpiece or flowers in the air is a perfect way to bring the look together. 

What Kind of Makeup Should I Do For ONAM?

You are most likely going to be out all day so choose your makeup look accordingly. 

If you want to do an elaborate look with lots of eyeshadow and foundation, make sure to set it with a makeup fixing spray so that the sweat and heat doesn’t affect it. 

However, you can also choose a simpler look with kajal and eyeliner, and a pink lipstick that gives a natural flush to your lips. You can bring some uniformity in your makeup by using the same lipstick on your eyes and cheeks (as eyeshadow and blush). 

CONCLUSION

Onam is about celebrating togetherness, harmony, and the love between the members of a community. Make sure that you choose your clothes in a way that you enjoy the day as much as you can. Incorporate the essence of Onam into your day with your choices.