Leg & Feet Mehndi Designs

Leg & Feet Mehndi Designs: Background and Style

In South Asian and many Arab weddings, the bride's feet are decorated with henna along with her hands. The soles of the feet, like the palms, have thick skin and take a very dark stain. Common layouts include an anklet-style band, a trail from the toes to the ankle, and a mandala on the top of the foot. The top of the foot stains lighter than the sole because the skin there is thinner.

Common motifs

• anklet bands
• toe caps
• toe-to-ankle trails
• top-of-foot mandala
• paisleys
• leafy borders

Application tips

• Sit with the foot supported on a stool so you can keep still for the whole application.
• Do not walk until the paste is fully dry; keep slippers and a towel within reach before you start.
• Exfoliate the feet a day before, since dry skin sheds quickly and takes the stain with it.