Steal Malavika Mohanan’s Wedding-Season Look: From Mogra Hairdos to Timeless Pattu Sarees

Malavika Mohanan has always been a trailblazer when it comes to traditional South Indian fashion, and her recent look is everything you need to bookmark this wedding season. Drenched in the elegance of a timeless Pattu saree, adorned with intricate temple jewelry, and perfected with a mogra-braided bun, she effortlessly channels bridal charm. Whether you’re a bride-to-be or a wedding guest, let’s break down her look and discover how you can recreate this South Indian stunner for your next big occasion.

The Pattu Saree: A Symbol of Tradition and Luxury

The centerpiece of Malavika’s look is the exquisite Pattu saree—a traditional silk saree from South India, renowned for its luxurious sheen, rich texture, and detailed zari work. Malavika dons a golden-orange saree with vibrant pink borders, radiating festive vibes and bridal opulence.

How to Style It:

Color Selection: Brides can opt for deep reds, golds, and maroons to exude traditional bridal beauty. Wedding guests can explore brighter shades like orange, royal blue, or deep greens.

Drape It Right: Stick to the classic drape with pleats neatly tucked and the pallu (saree end) styled elegantly over the shoulder. Consider using a silk belt (like Malavika’s ornate kamarbandh) to add definition to your waist.

Fabric Quality: Choose Kanchipuram or Banarasi silk for unmatched grandeur and durability.

The Blouse: Simple Yet Sophisticated

Malavika complements her saree with a minimalistic sleeveless blouse in gold. The tailored fit highlights her toned shoulders while maintaining balance with the heavy saree and statement jewelry. While the front design remains elegant and understated, the back of the blouse is where you can play with creativity and style.

Tips for the Perfect Blouse:

For Brides: Experiment with intricate embroidery, deep necklines, or back designs with tie-up tassels for a modern touch. Try backless styles with strings embellished with pearls or beads for added allure.

For Guests: Opt for simpler fabrics like raw silk or velvet in complementary shades to keep the focus on the saree, but elevate the blouse back with subtle designs like keyhole cuts, U-shapes, or crisscross patterns.

Popular Back Designs to Consider:

Tie-Up Backs: Blouses featuring tie-up strings with tassels or beadwork add playful elegance to the saree look.

Deep Cut Backs: Whether it’s U-shaped, V-shaped, or a scooped-back design, a deep-cut blouse back can add a sultry charm while staying traditional.

Sheer Backs: Use net or lace with embroidery for a delicate and classy finish. This works beautifully for wedding guest looks.

Button-Down Backs: Adding fabric buttons along the back gives a vintage and royal appeal.

Backless Designs: For a bold and trendy look, go for a backless blouse with stylish embellishments or thin strings for support.

Sleeve and Back Combos:

Pair backless blouses with elbow-length or full sleeves for a mix of bold and traditional vibes.

For sleeveless blouses, simple cut-out backs or tie-up designs work beautifully without overpowering the look.

With the right blouse back design, you can turn around and still make a statement!

Temple Jewelry: Adding an Ethereal Glow

Malavika stuns in traditional South Indian temple jewelry, characterized by its antique gold finish, intricate motifs, and divine embellishments. She adorns a majestic necklace, matching jhumkas (earrings), bangles, and a gold kamarbandh (waist belt).

Jewelry Tips:

Layering Necklaces: Brides can layer chokers with longer necklaces for added drama. Opt for pieces adorned with Lakshmi motifs, elephants, or peacocks.

Earrings: Stick to jhumkas or chandbalis for an elegant traditional appeal.

The Waist Belt: A kamarbandh not only adds structure but also highlights the curves of your saree drape. Gold designs with intricate detailing elevate the entire look.

For Guests: Stick to one or two statement pieces, like heavy jhumkas and a sleek necklace, to balance the look.

The Mogra Hairstyle: An Ode to Tradition

Nothing screams South Indian beauty like a tightly tied bun adorned with fresh mogra (jasmine) flowers. Malavika’s hairdo exudes grace and completes her traditional ensemble.

How to Recreate This Hairstyle:

Start with a clean, center-parted sleek bun. Use a serum for a polished look.

Secure the bun with pins and hairspray to ensure it stays intact throughout the event.

Wrap fresh jasmine flowers around the bun or place them delicately at the back for a fragrant and beautiful finish.

Brides can consider adding gold hair accessories like temple-style pins or brooches for extra charm.

For Guests: If a bun feels too formal, opt for a braid adorned with scattered mogra strands.

Makeup: Minimal Yet Glamorous

Malavika’s makeup is soft, dewy, and radiant—perfect for daytime or evening wedding functions.

Breakdown of the Look:

Base: A flawless dewy base with a focus on achieving a natural glow. Use a lightweight foundation and highlighter to enhance your features.

Eyes: Defined eyebrows, soft brown or gold eyeshadow, and kohl-lined eyes accentuate the traditional look. Finish with voluminous lashes.

Cheeks: A flush of pink or peach blush adds subtle color to the face.

Lips: Opt for a muted pink, nude, or terracotta lip shade that ties the entire look together.

Bindi: A small black bindi completes the look and adds a cultural touch.

Pro Tip: Brides can opt for a slightly bolder lip color like deep red or maroon to complement their bridal saree.

Why Malavika Mohanan’s Look is Perfect for Weddings

Malavika’s wedding-season look ticks all the boxes for brides and guests looking to embrace tradition with a modern flair. The luxurious Pattu saree, statement temple jewelry, and fresh mogra hairstyle offer a timeless charm that celebrates South Indian heritage.

Tips for Brides and Guests:

Don’t shy away from bold jewelry pieces—they are meant to shine with silk sarees.

Always opt for fresh flowers for your hair—they add natural beauty and fragrance.

Balance is key: Pair a heavy saree with a simple blouse or vice versa.

Conclusion

Malavika Mohanan’s traditional South Indian look is a lesson in timeless elegance and understated glamour. Whether you’re tying the knot or attending a wedding, her style offers inspiration that beautifully bridges heritage and sophistication.

Steal this look, embrace your roots, and make heads turn this wedding season!