You Can Never Go Wrong With These 5 Chikankari Styles That Epitomise Charm!

By Akanksha Mohit

Chikankari embroidery, with its intricate details and delicate charm, has, no doubt, stolen our hearts. This ancient art form, now primarily manufactured in Lucknow, speaks of grace and beauty. The beautiful patterns of Chikankari traced onto the fine muslin cloth tell us the tales of how the skilled hands of generations of artisans have put together a work that is so gorgeous and exquisite that it is now a prized possession in almost every woman’s wardrobe.

Patterns in chikan embroidery

Origin of Chikankari embroidery

It has a glorious heritage of more than 200 years in India and has come down through people of various cultures, and has now gained a distinct position in the world of fashion. Descriptions of it as ‘flowered muslins’ have been found in records as early as the 3rd century B.C. The word ‘Chikan’ has its origins in the Persian language and was introduced to India by the Mughals. Traditionally, it was done on mulmul, the fine muslin cloth, but it now also adorns various other fabrics like cotton, georgette, chiffon and silks.

The making involves an elaborate process, including block printing and the embroidery work itself, done using simple tools. There are numerous kinds of Chikankari embroidery, some of which are Jali, Banarsi, Bakhiya and Hool. Of these, Bakhiya or shadow work is the most popular. Cotton threads and golden and silver zari were generally used in the embroidery. The motifs created in this kind of embroidery are inspired by nature, and the most common ones include creeper and floral motifs.

The popularity of Chikankari clothing

Even though the roots of Chikankari embroidery lie in Lucknow, it has now gained immense popularity all over the world. It has been variously modified according to contemporary fashion trends, and what was once an ancient art form has now graduated to become a timeless classic. It has found a place on various salwar suits, scarves, kurtas and many other pieces of clothing. Be it festive, casual or formal, the elegant weaves, subtle hues and rich patterns of Chikankari outfits blend effortlessly into any occasion, and this quality has made it a favourite among women, not only in India but all over the world.

5 delightful ways of styling Chikankari outfits

Stand out in a crowd with a Chikankari salwar suit

Increase the appeal of a traditional salwar suit by tailoring it with Chikankari material. You can either pair a long, body-hugging kurta with a lightly embroidered dupatta of the same shade for a modest look, or with an embellished dupatta of a brighter shade for a festive look. Dangling earrings or jhumkas would go well with this look.

Drape yourself in elegance with a Chikankari saree

A beautiful saree in blush pink

An essential ethnic outfit for every Indian woman, the saree is effortlessly stunning just by itself. When the intricacies of Chikankari work embed themselves into the grace of a saree, they bring out an outfit that is classy, royal and surprisingly comfortable. Don rustic, antique jewellery to complement this look.

Enchant the onlookers in a gorgeous Chikankari lehenga

Reinvent your bridal attire in a pastel-coloured Chikankari lehenga and team it up with a blouse adorned with jewels and decorative stones and a matching dupatta.

Keep it casual and breezy in a Chikankari kurta

An elegantly embroidered kurta set in white

Carry yourself with poise even during your everyday activities in a simple Chikankari kurta. Keep things interesting by pairing it up with different bottoms. A kurta in a neutral shade can go well with straight-cut trousers or palazzo pants in similar shades to give a formal look. Embrace your bubbly side by teaming up the kurta with a flared skirt to keep things light and comfortable. Or you can even wear it with your trusty denim for a laid-back feel.

Slay in a Chikankari flared skirt

A cream-coloured skirt paired with a shirt

Match the ethnicity of a Chikankari skirt with the glamour of a vibrant coloured cropped top. Throw in your favourite denim jacket to complete the indo-western look. Or further experiment by pairing up the skirt with a basic white shirt and finishing off this look with a neckpiece.

Thus, Chikankari embroidery, with its dreamy appearance and soothing style, is not just a pleasure to wear and see. Woven within its stitches are its rich history and the skill and talent of numerous weavers, who have, over time, created this fascinating art form.