Chikankari kurtis are one of the most elegant and graceful ethnic wear that Indian women love to adorn. With intricate white thread embroidery done on light and breezy fabrics, chikankari kurtis make for perfect summer and festive wear.
What is Chikankari Embroidery?
Chikankari is a traditional embroidery form that originated in Lucknow, India. The word 'Chikankari' comes from the Hindi words 'Chikan' meaning embroidery and 'kari' meaning craftsmanship. It involves using white thread on fabrics like muslin, cotton, silk, chiffon etc. The patterns and motifs are delicately embroidered on the fabric to create beautiful floral, geometric and other designs. From stylish kurtis and sarees to dupattas and wedding lehengas, chikankari kurti work elevates basic fabrics into artistic pieces.
Chikankari styling for modern women
While traditionally chikankari embroidery was done on salwar suits and sarees, nowadays it is widely popular on kurtis and tunics as well. From simple short kurtis to flowy anarkalis, the possibilities are endless. Here are some trendy ways to style chikankari kurtis:
1. Short kurtis: Chikankari work looks resplendent on short straight fit kurtis. Pair them with jeans, palazzos or leggings for a smart casual look. These kurtis are perfect for college wear or weekend outings.
2. Anarkali kurtis: Nothing looks more royal than a nice flowy anarkali kurti adorned with chikankari embroidery. The flair and grace is unmatched. Pair it with matching churidars and a dupatta for grand ethnic look.
3. A-line kurtis: For a fusion look, try an A-line short kurti with chikankari work and lace or frill details. Tuck it into a skirt or jeans for a Indo-western statement.
4. Layered style: Layer your chikankari kurti over a plain solid colored kurti and patiala salwar for royal vibes. This is perfect for small festive occasions and pujas.
5. Capes/ jackets: Take your style quotient higher by teaming a chikankari kurti with a matching cape or jacket. This gives a very modern and uber stylish look.
Latest Chikankari Kurti Designs
When it comes to chikankari kurtis, Lucknow remains the hub for the most fine and intricate designs. However, major textile hubs and fashion designers from across India have also forayed into chikankari embroidery. Here are some of the latest patterns and styles you must check out:
1. Contemporary designs: Today chikankari kurtis feature a mélange of traditional and contemporary designs. Think whimsical floral vines, geometric jaalis, digital prints and abstract patterns blended with chikankari. These experimental designs appeal to young women and make great casual wear.
2. Color pop: Designers are going beyond the classic white-on-white chikankari and experimenting with pops of color like yellow, pink, green, orange, blue and more. This makes the designs pop and stand out uniquely.
3. Fusion wear: Cutdana, zardozi, gotta patti work and other embroidery forms are being blended with chikankari to create stunning fusion pieces. The amalgamation of styles looks refreshing.
4. Unique motifs: Along with conventional floral and leaves, modern chikankari flaunts unique motifs like birds, animals, human figures, architecture etc. The Bandhani tie-dye and Bagh block prints are also popular.
5. Innovative fabrics: Breezy fabrics like georgette, chanderi, organza and silk are being chosen over regular cotton and muslin for chikankari kurtis. The embroidery looks resplendent over these fabrics.
6. Layered kurtis: Designers are creating layered kurtis and gowns featuring chikankari at different levels for a dramatic look. Contrast colored fabrics are used with white chikankari to create an eye-catching effect.
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