Onam is not just a festival; it is Kerala’s heartbeat 💚. A time when families gather, homes are decorated with vibrant pookalams (flower rangolis), and hearts brim with joy. And what’s Onam without dressing up in traditional finery? From fragrant mullamottu (jasmine buds) adorning your hair to the grace of a classic mundu saree, this festival beautifully blends culture, tradition, and fashion.
In this blog, let’s dive into what to wear this Onam, styling ideas, and the timeless elegance of Kerala’s traditional attire. ✨
🌼 The Timeless Allure of Onam Attire
Onam attire is all about purity, grace, and understated beauty. The classic combination of white and gold sarees (Kasavu sarees) is synonymous with this festival. These sarees symbolize prosperity and peace, making them perfect for the season of harvest and joy.
Women: The Kasavu saree or mundu saree with a golden border is the most iconic choice. Paired with traditional jewelry and jasmine flowers in the hair, it creates a look of divine elegance. 🌸
Men: The Kasavu mundu (dhoti with golden border) teamed with a crisp white shirt or kurta completes the traditional look. Simple, dignified, and festive. 👌
✨ From Mullamottu to Mundu Sarees – Styling the Onam Look
🌸 Mullamottu (Jasmine Buds) – The Fragrance of Tradition
No Onam look is complete without mullamottu. Women weave these delicate flowers into their braids or buns, filling the air with a sweet aroma. It’s not just an accessory but a cultural statement of beauty and tradition.
👗 Mundu Sarees & Kasavu Sarees – Eternal Grace
The mundu saree (or set saree) is the heart of Onam fashion. Its simple white base with a rich golden border radiates elegance. Modern variations now come with zari work, pastel borders, and floral embroidery, giving a contemporary twist to a timeless piece.
💍 Jewelry that Completes the Look
Gold jewelry is an essential element of Onam dressing. Think palakkal mala (leaf necklace), jhimkis (traditional earrings), bangles, and waist belts (oddiyanam). They not only enhance your saree but also reflect Kerala’s rich heritage.
🧑🤝🧑 Family Coordination
One of the most heartwarming sights during Onam is families dressing in coordinated white-and-gold outfits. Children in tiny pavada-blouse sets and elders in elegant mundus add to the collective charm of the celebration.
🌺 Modern Twists to Onam Fashion
While tradition holds its place, today’s generation loves experimenting:
Pastel Borders: Sarees with pink, green, or blue borders add a refreshing touch.
Block Prints & Motifs: Hand-block designs of flowers, elephants, or peacocks bring in artistry.
Blouse Experimentation: From boat necks to puff sleeves, blouse styles can transform your festive look.
Fusion Wear: Pairing a kasavu dupatta with a lehenga or styling a mundu with crop tops gives a trendy spin.
🌟 Beauty & Grooming for Onam
Hairstyle: A simple bun decorated with jasmine or braids adorned with flowers.
Makeup: Minimal yet radiant – kajal, a bindi, and a dash of gold-toned eyeshadow.
Fragrance: Floral perfumes complement the festive aura.
🎉 Why Dressing Up Matters During Onam
Onam is a festival of togetherness. Wearing traditional attire creates a shared identity and connects everyone to their roots. It enhances the festive spirit and makes every moment—from the pookalam competition to the grand Onam Sadhya—feel special.
🙋♀️ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. 🥻 What is the difference between Kasavu saree and Mundu saree?
The Kasavu saree refers to Kerala’s traditional saree with a golden border, while the Mundu saree (set saree) is a two-piece drape (set mundu) with blouse. Both are popular during Onam.
2. 🌸 Can I style Onam attire in a modern way?
Absolutely! You can mix and match – like pairing a Kasavu saree with a trendy blouse, wearing fusion jewelry, or experimenting with pastel borders.
3. 💍 What kind of jewelry should I wear with a Mundu saree?
Traditional gold jewelry like palakkal mala, jhimkis, bangles, and waist belts pair beautifully. If you prefer lighter looks, opt for minimal gold chains and statement earrings.
4. 👩👧 Do children also wear Onam attire?
Yes! Girls usually wear pavada-blouse sets in white and gold, while boys wear small mundus or dhotis. Families often match outfits for coordinated festive photos. 📸
5. 🎉 Can I wear colors other than white and gold for Onam?
Yes! While white and gold are traditional, modern Onam outfits also include pastel shades, block prints, and even bright colors. It’s about balancing tradition with personal style.
