South Indian brides are an absolute vision of grandeur and opulence - their traditional wedding fashion being more on the OTT side as compared to others. The fashion and beauty details of South Indian brides vary from region to region. 'Manavarai' (mandap) to church weddings - a South Indian bride is always dripping in splendour in her styling. A key aspect of this bridal scenery is that South Indian bridal hairstyles are instantly unique and recognisable. Paired with a gold-encrusted Kanjeevaram or Kasavu saree, depending on the region, these hairstyles are kept uber glamorous to match the extravagance of the jewellery and the saree. Their ensembles are often very rich in colour as well, just look at any Coorgi bride, and thus, the hairstyles also have to have a lot of detailing and colour. And while we can go on and on about these hairstyles, it is best to take them on in detail, so that you can make a well-informed pick for your big day as well...
01The traditional ‘Jada’
Image courtesy: @mani_hairstylist The traditional 'Jada', which translates to 'braid' is probably one of the most popular hairstyles among South Indian brides. It is created by tying floral strings, hair ornaments and extensions together. These ornaments often bear the design of temple motifs. This hairstyle is a bit on the heavier side and is tied in a sturdy way to survive multiple saree changes throughout the day. The idea behind the heavy 'Jada' is to leave the simplicity of daily life behind and turn into an absolute queen for the day, and we think that is the only argument you need to pick this 'do for your big day!
02Minimal ‘Jada’
Image courtesy: @pannasmakeuppvtltd It might be difficult to believe, but minimal South Indian brides do exist! A 'Jada' is created with hair extensions laden with adornments, but they can be left totally naked as well. A perfectly braided length of hair is paired with a semi-circle floral arrangement on top and a 'Jada Kuppulu' attached to the bottom. The added accessory in the bottom makes the braid flip-worthy and stylish. If you are looking for a filler hairdo in-between important rituals, this hairstyle will be a good way to go.
03The classic ‘Poolajada’
Image courtesy: @afsharangila_makeupartist 'Poolajada' or the 'floral braid' is yet another fantastic option for brides who like traditional details in their look. This particular side braid, however, is a much lighter and modern version of the heavier or netted 'Poolajada' and thus is very popular with millennial brides. Worn as a side braid, the 'Jada' is usually adorned with jasmine flowers - known to symbolise vitality and peace in married life. Make sure your outfit is one that accommodates a side braid and does include embroidery or details that will tug on the flowers.
04The modern hybrid
Image courtesy: @konkanivhakkal Talking about a modern 'Jada', the one that tops the list of trendy hairstyles for South Indian brides is the hybrid braid. Created in all of its glory by combining floral adornments and gold ornaments, this one is for the brides who like all things extra . This hairstyle makes for an uber-rich style and will make you look like a million bucks on your big day. And hey, if it is good enough for Deepika Padukone's wedding look, it is good enough for us!
05Contemporary half up half down
Image courtesy: @renuka_mua If you are looking for something contemporary and chic, half up half down style is a good way to go. Teased, centre-parted in the front and collected in a semi-bun arrangement in the back, this hairdo will be perfect for a modern drape as well. The lower part is given a lot of texture with soft curls, with frangipani flowers and golden barrette clips finishing up this hair look. We also love the added detail of lovely hair colour to bring depth and dimension to the open curls.
06Floral fishtail braid
Image courtesy: @nourin.rahman Fishtail braids are already very popular in the bridal glam space. Which is why it is often adapted and edited to suit various regional Shaadi styles in the country. Which is why you will see a North Indian bride with a more deconstructed and messy fishtail braid. But the South Indian style is to keep it tight and add a lot of colour, usually in the form of floral detailing. They are also not as voluminous as traditional bridal fishtail braids in order to best complement the heavy sarees and jewellery.
07Gajra braid
Image courtesy: @ushahairandmakeup An elevated version of a common hairstyle you will see South Indian women wearing on a daily basis, the gajra braid is yet another classic hairstyle for brides. This hairstyle is created by pinning fresh, loose gajras to lad on the shoulders, and paired with long braided extensions. This hairdo is perfect for ceremonies here you want a simpler hairstyle, but still have a traditional touch to it. We love the center parted maangtika detail on this particular hairstyle as well, it looks so pretty!
08Crimped voluminous bun
Image courtesy: @ralphdaniels08 For brides looking to amp up their church wedding look, this absolutely gorgeous hairdo will be a great option. Instead of keeping it completely sleek, the subtle texture is added in the form of crimping on the top. As for the bun, we love how the hair arrangement is done to cut down the need for any accessorising. The face-framing loose tendrils in the front makes this hairdo so soft and romantic. And while we love the crown detailing of this hairdo, a dainty tiara is what we envision you can wear for your big day instead.
09Floral netted bun
Image courtesy: @gazalsuranamakeup Brides who love clean and well-tucked hairstyles can opt for this floral, netted bun hairdo. The low bun keeps things so classy, and the ring of gajra mixed with baby's breath flowers adds a seasonal freshness to the look. This hairstyle is perfect for brides who want to show off their statement hair accessory and ornaments. Plus, the styling is so neat without a single strand of hair out of place, making it a good option to match smartly draped and designed ensembles with clean lines.
10Flat floral bun
Image courtesy: @ushahairandmakeup Flat buns don't usually scream bridal glam, but when it is done with this level of precision, we can't help but marvel at the sheer beauty of it. A lot of contrast has been added to this hairstyle, a puffed-up back has been carefully tucked into a flat bun. Under-bun floral detailing and center parting in the front make this hairstyle one of the most creative 'dos on this list. The hairstyle is perfect for showing off all the stunning blouse backs you have picked out for your ensembles. It is also one of the more secure hairstyles you can be sure of staying in place while going through all the wedding chaos!
11Floral bubble braid
Image courtesy: @afsharangila_makeupartist For South Indian brides who want something that looks like the traditional 'Jada' but beep it more casual and modern, this floral bubble braid is a good option. It is so adorable with all of its twisted details on top. The accessorising done with varying rose sizes is yet another sneaky little detail that we love about this hairdo. Last, but not the least, the bubble detail created oh-so-casually is a sign of a carefree and fun bride who cannot be bothered by having a clean braid. So if this vibe sounds familiar, you should go with this fun hairstyle for your big day as well! Main image courtesy: @afsharangila_makeupartist, @mani_hairstylist
