As the Festival of Lights approaches, Diwali not only brings a radiant glow to our homes but also inspires us to adorn ourselves in the best traditional and contemporary styles. Bollywood, with its glam and charm, often sets the trend for festive looks, as celebrities dazzle in breathtaking ensembles paired with exquisite hairstyles that perfectly capture the spirit of the season. From intricate braids to chic updos, Bollywood’s leading ladies showcase a variety of hairdos that not only complement their outfits but also add a touch of elegance and individuality to each look. In this guide, Khush dives into some stunning, Bollywood-inspired hairstyles were spotted on 12 A-listers that are ideal for Diwali celebrations. We also give you insights into how each hairstyle pairs with specific outfits and necklines to complete the look.
1. Genelia D’Souza’s Timeless Braid
Genelia D’Souza radiates a timeless grace with her loose, traditional braid embellished with fragrant gajra flowers. This hairstyle, paired with a Manish Malhotra lehenga, brings a beautiful balance of tradition and effortless style. The soft braid is the perfect complement to a lehenga, especially one with intricate embroidery or an ornate blouse, as it subtly frames the face and keeps the focus on the outfit’s details. Adding gajra brings an unmistakably festive touch to the braid, evoking memories of traditional Indian celebrations. This hairdo is ideal for those who want a classic look that’s both elegant and easy to maintain throughout the festivities.
2. Tara Sutaria’s Elegant Bun
Tara Sutaria’s sleek, pulled-back bun is an ideal pairing for her ethereal ivory saree and off-shoulder blouse. The bun’s clean lines and compact structure create an elegant silhouette that accentuates the look. This hairstyle allows the off-shoulder look to shine, enhancing Tara’s refined appearance while drawing attention to the collarbones and shoulders. For anyone planning to wear saris or blouses with unique necklines, a sleek bun is a graceful choice that keeps the look polished and understated yet impactful.
3. Karishma Kapoor’s Accessorised Braid
Known for her impeccable sense of style, Karisma Kapoor opted for a traditional braid embellished with delicate hair accessories, adding a modern twist to a classic look. This hairstyle pairs beautifully with saris, lehengas, and kurtas that feature subtle detailing, as the accessories add a sparkle without overpowering the outfit. The braid itself is versatile and holds up well during long festivities, while the embellishments add a contemporary flair that elevates the look, making it ideal for Diwali celebrations.
4. Bhumi Pednekar’s Half & Half Hairdo
Bhumi Pednekar’s playful half-up, half-down hairstyle brings a modern touch to her classic look, harmonising beautifully with her deconstructed sari and vibrant blouse. This hairstyle works particularly well with experimental outfits like Bhumi’s, allowing for movement and flair without sacrificing elegance. By securing half of the hair up, the style keeps hair out of the face while letting the rest flow freely, making it perfect for those looking to maintain a blend of relaxed and festive appeal.
5. Sonam Kapoor’s Half Knotted Hair
Sonam Kapoor brings a vintage-inspired touch with her half-knotted hairstyle that pairs effortlessly with a low neckline and bold jhumkas. This look captures a demure, classic essence that exudes elegance and subtle sophistication. The half-knot offers structure, while allowing the lower half of the hair to cascade gently. The look also complements Sonam’s outfit and accentuates her face. It’s a hairstyle that feels very demure, very mindful, very understated; perfect for anyone channelling a blend of old-world grace and modern chic.
6. Nushrratt Bharuccha’s Old Hollywood Glam
Inspired by the glamour of Old Hollywood, Nushrratt Bharuccha’s updo brings a luxurious, retro vibe to her festive look. With smooth, polished curls pinned into a chic updo, this hairstyle is ideal for Diwali celebrations, adding a touch of elegance to traditional attire. Perfect for saris or gowns with statement jewellery, this hairstyle elevates the look with a nod to classic Hollywood stars. It’s especially fitting for evening events, where the updo can shine under the lights, creating a timeless yet bold impression that combines classic grace with a touch of vintage glam.
7. Mira Rajput Kapoor’s Effortlessly Chic Beach Waves
For a more relaxed but equally chic vibe, Mira Rajput Kapoor’s beach waves are an ideal choice, adding a casual, breezy feel to her Diwali look. The waves give an effortless touch that pairs well with lighter fabrics, softer colours and minimalist jewellery, allowing for a naturally chic appearance. Beach waves are versatile and work well with both traditional and contemporary attire, making them a popular choice for Diwali for those seeking comfort without compromising on style.
8. Wamiqa Gabbi’s Classic Bun
Wamiqa Gabbi’s classic bun, adorned with fresh flowers, embodies the elegance of traditional Indian styling. Perfect for saris and lehengas, this hairstyle is a timeless choice that adds a festive, fragrant element to the look. The bun is both practical and sophisticated, keeping the hair secure while the flowers enhance its beauty with a subtle touch of colour and fragrance. This hairdo is particularly beautiful when paired with heavy, intricately designed outfits, as it allows the clothes to take the spotlight, while adding a graceful and serene aura to the entire look.
9. Sonali Bendre’s Floral Bun
Sonali Bendre’s floral bun offers a stylish option for those with shorter hair lengths, proving that a traditional bun can still be achieved without long locks. By securing the hair into a small bun and adding a delicate layer of flowers, this hairstyle creates a sophisticated, festive look. It pairs well with kurtas, saris, and lehengas alike, and the floral embellishment adds a Diwali-appropriate touch. This style is both elegant and easy to achieve, allowing those with shorter hair to partake in traditional styling without hassle.
10. Sonam Kapoor’s Bouncy Natural Curls
Sonam Kapoor’s natural curls, styled with bounce and volume, add youthful energy to her look, complementing her Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla Khadi sari and unique breastplate crafted from Karnataka red soil and Multani mitti. This hairstyle is an excellent choice for statement-making outfits, where the hair adds a touch of organic beauty to a bold ensemble. The natural curls are full of personality and bring a sense of lightness to her otherwise dramatic attire, blending tradition with an effortlessly modern twist.
11. Kareena Kapoor Khan’s Messy Bun
Kareena Kapoor Khan’s messy-but-not-messy bun is a perfect blend of casual elegance and vintage charm, ideal for pairing with her Banarasi sari draped in modern, structured layers. This hairstyle feels intentionally unpolished, balancing the heavy, intricate saree with a relaxed, laid-back vibe. It’s ideal for anyone wanting to look glamorous yet comfortable, as it captures the essence of Diwali style without feeling overly rigid or formal.
12. Alia Bhatt’s Textured Chignon
Alia Bhatt’s textured chignon not only looks chic but also speaks to sustainability, as she pairs it with her repurposed mehndi outfit. This effortless style combines elegance with comfort, holding the hair back in a relaxed, slightly tousled look that’s perfect for a day of celebration. The chignon’s textured appearance adds interest without overshadowing the outfit, making it a lovely choice for saris or lehengas with a modern or minimalist design.
With Bollywood as a source of inspiration, these hairstyles provide a variety of options for anyone looking to bring a bit of stardom to their Diwali celebrations. So, whether you’re drawn to classic elegance or modern flair, these hairdos are sure to add a festive sparkle to your look, making you feel as radiant as the lights of Diwali itself.