As a Malayalee who lives outside of God’s Own Country, Onam celebrations in our homes and neighbouring community centres are the closest I get to experiencing the quintessential Kerala lifestyle. The elders and the veterans coming together to cook a feast or onasadya , the art enthusiast taking up designing and spreading out the pookalam , and, lastly, the kids and teens figuring out how to wear the traditional kasavu mundu and settu saree .
Between all this, the one thing that always slips our minds is finding the perfect glam look that helps us slay every Instagram story, candid shots with the pookalam, and a Boomerang on the dance floor. So, as a beauty editor and a proud Mallu, I must bring you some of the best looks that I can personally vouch for. Although this article is only about makeup looks, I have covered a piece on Onam hairstyles as well. Check out: 5 Classic Traditional Hairstyles To Try This Onam.
5 Beyond Basic Onam Makeup Looks
These makeup looks are the best to try if you are on a time crunch, but also want your pictures to eat.
80s Glam
The 80s Bollywood makeup style was heavily inspired by the quintessential Bengali women, adorning a big bindi , a full lip, and some smokey eyeshadow. This look is perfect for Onam as well, since this harvest festival is all about being extra, with 20+ dishes for one meal, extravagant flower arrangements, and exclusive dance routines. Opt for a lightweight foundation, a matte brick red lip, heavy lashes, and a big bindi. This look is more matte than dewy, so don’t forget your setting powder and soft blush.
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Fiery Red
More often than not, all you need is a bold red lip, a tiny black bindi, some blush, and a strong brow gel to complement your outfit. It’s a dewy look that needs ample hydration before and after the look is complete for that undeniable shine.
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No-Makeup Makeup Baddie
A no-makeup makeup look can look effortless when put in the right amount of effort. Without making it look too heavy, your Onam look can be pulled off with a humble kohl, some concealer, a tinted gloss, and some barely-there rouge on the cheeks.
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It’s In The Eyes, Chico
The eyes do most of the talking during festive occasions when you’re locking glances with your crush, exchanging fleeting moments, between dance routines, serving looks while serving papadoms . So, a graphic eyeliner, a dramatic wing, or even a coloured tightline can do wonders for your outfit. Make sure to prep your eye area for the colour and borders to pop.
Nykaa Recommends:
Soft glam
No one wants a full glam on Onam day, with all the food and running around, your full glam is going melt away, leaving some colour here and there. A soft glam is not too loud, not too basic, just the right amount of makeup that makes you look ethereal and fairy-like.
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Parting Thoughts
Between mouth-watering feasts and sweat-inducing dance numbers, your makeup game needs to be strong for it to last long and make an impression. With just a few products, you can create a look that’s effortless and distinguishable and perfect for this traditional holiday.
FAQs
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How can I make my Onam makeup last long?
You can make your Onam look last long by using the right primer and setting spray. A hydrating primer will make your product stick, and a setting spray will ensure your makeup stays far away from a meltdown.
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How can I look snatched with full glam festive makeup?
If you are opting for a full glam makeup, the best way to look snatched is to use a contour that defines your bone structure and a bronzer that adds depth to your face.
