Onam, the vibrant and culturally significant festival of Kerala, is not only a time of celebrations but also an occasion to flaunt traditional attire. The exquisite beauty of the festival is reflected in the way people dress up, especially women, who adorn themselves in graceful and colorful outfits. To make the most of this festive season, it’s essential to understand the Onam fashion dos and don’ts that can help women select and style their outfits appropriately. This guide will walk you through the dos and don’ts of Onam fashion, ensuring you look your best while embracing the rich traditions of the festival.
Dos for Onam Fashion
Opt for Traditional Attire: Onam is deeply rooted in Kerala’s culture, and embracing the traditional attire is a must. A classic Kasavu saree, with its off-white fabric and golden border, is a timeless choice. You can also consider wearing a traditional Kerala Settu Mundu, which consists of a mundu (skirt) and neriyathu (blouse).
Choose Vibrant Colors: Onam is all about vibrant celebrations, and your attire should reflect that. While the Kasavu saree usually follows a more subtle color palette, you can experiment with bright and bold hues in your accessories, blouse, or jewelry. Shades like maroon, royal blue, and deep green can add a touch of modernity to your traditional look.
Accessorize Wisely: The right accessories can elevate your Onam ensemble. Opt for traditional gold jewelry such as necklaces, earrings, and bangles. You can also add a touch of contemporary elegance by pairing your outfit with statement pieces like jhumkas or oxidized silver jewelry.
Floral Arrangements: Incorporating fresh flowers into your hairstyle is a charming Onam tradition. Jasmine flowers or other fragrant blossoms can be woven into your hair, adding a natural and fragrant touch to your appearance.
Minimalistic Makeup: Keep your makeup subtle and in line with the festive spirit. A dewy base, kohl-rimmed eyes, and a touch of lip color can enhance your natural beauty without overpowering your traditional look.
Don’ts for Onam Fashion
Avoid Overly Trendy Outfits: While it’s tempting to incorporate the latest fashion trends, Onam is a time to embrace tradition. Avoid outfits that stray too far from the authentic Kerala attire, as it’s essential to honor the festival’s cultural significance.
Say No to Clashing Colors: While experimenting with colors is encouraged, avoid clashing color combinations that may compromise the elegance of your outfit. It’s essential to strike a balance between traditional and contemporary color choices.
Don’t Overdo Accessories: While accessorizing is crucial, refrain from going overboard. The goal is to complement your attire, not overshadow it. Select a few statement pieces that enhance your overall look without causing visual clutter.
Avoid Heavy Makeup: Onam is about celebrating natural beauty and traditions. Avoid heavy, dramatic makeup that might not resonate with the festival’s spirit. Instead, opt for makeup that enhances your features while maintaining a fresh and subtle look.
Steer Clear of Cultural Appropriation: While you can experiment with your Onam look, it’s essential to avoid cultural appropriation. Respect the cultural origins of the attire and accessories you choose to wear, and be aware of their significance.
Onam is a time of joy, cultural significance, and embracing tradition. The way you dress during this festival is not only a reflection of your personal style but also a homage to Kerala’s rich heritage. By adhering to the dos and don’ts of Onam fashion for women, you can elegantly blend tradition with contemporary sensibilities. Remember to choose traditional attire, play with vibrant colors, and accessorize thoughtfully. By doing so, you’ll not only look stunning but also contribute to the colorful tapestry of Onam celebrations.
