The admiration for chikankari runs far and wide. The traditional handicraft form originates from Lucknow and can be roughly translated to mean embroidery. By its appearance, chikankari may seem simple enough but in reality, involves a laborious process of cutting, stitching and finishing, often by hand. Though the craft dates back hundreds of centuries, its popularity hasn't faded in the new millennium. Bollywood stars from Deepika Padukone to Alia Bhatt have stepped out with regal flair in chikan sarees and salwar kameez suits. That has only propelled the popularity of the traditional art form and it sees no signs of stopping.
We asked Mansi Gupta, CEO and Co-Founder of Tjori about the closet takeover of chikankari during the festive season. "Chikankari has always been synonymous with class and elegant. Inspired by the Nawabs of Lucknow, it is an effortless choice for both men and women. Its meticulous handwork on breathable georgette fabric lend it an aura of comfortable casual with regality." Both, a casual day look and traditional night ensemble can be benefited by it.
Designer Anjul Bhandari says, "Chikankari is the most pristine art form that looks especially beautiful on white and pastels. There's no sweat or fret or thinking too much about wearing it, even in humid weather. According to me, it's an heirloom and for the festive season, it looks magnificent with crystals and sequins."
A chikankari dupatta from Tjori
Anjul's latest Autumn Winter 2019 collection Nayab - E - Zama has chikankari at its heart with embellishment from Japanese beads, sequins and Austrian Swarovski work which was inspired by her master craftsmen, karigars and the women who wear the piece. To give the embroidery form an elevated look for the Diwali parties, Anjul says, "Opt for pastel chikan pieces and add a solid chunk of colour with your jewellery. If you're in grey, pair it with pink. With butter yellow, emeralds will work beautifully."
A chikankari suit from Anjul Bhandari's collection
Mansi gives her valuable fashion advice about chikan work for the festivities, "Ideally, it is worn in a lightweight fabric with classy embroidery. A handstitched chikankari kurta can be paired with dhoti-style pants for a great puja look. A simple raw silk kurta set with a heavy chikankari dupatta would definitely make all heads turn. Last but not the least, men can carry chikankari equally well in a hand embroidered kurta with a classy bottom."
8 Chikankari Fashion Picks For The Festive Season
With these festive tips straight from the fashion experts themselves, if you're on the lookout for the right chikankari pieces to wear this season, we've got you covered.
1. ADA Chikan Kurti
The ADA Chikan Kurti is a white faux georgette mid-length kurti with long sleeves, side slits and elaborate handcrafted chikan work in pastel pink.
2. ADA Lucknow Chikan Saree
The ADA Lucknow Chikan Saree is a sheer burgundy faux georgette saree with contrasting white embroidery and a white long sleeve blouse.
3. Avni N Anvi Dupatta
The Avni N Anvi Dupatta is a white nazmeen dupatta complete with white chikankari work.
4. Nazya Creations Salwar
The Nazya Creations Salwar Suit is an orange toned cotton salwar kameez suit with olive and white embroidery in front.
5. ADA Chikan Saree
The ADA Chikan Saree is made of sheer black faux georgette with contrasting white chikankari work that lends a stunning look.
6. Paramount Salwar Suit
The Paramount Salwar Suit is a grey toned premium georgette salwar kameez suit of a kurta, pants and a dupatta covered with handcrafted white chikan embroidery.
7. Trifon Palazzos
The Trifon Palazzos are wide-legged white cotton palazzo trousers with a cropped length which has chikankari work over its lengths.
8. ADA Ethnic Wear Kurta
The ADA Ethnic Wear Kurta is a light blue cotton kurta with white chikankari work.
(Also Read: 9 Lucknow Chikan Kurtas To Add To Your Closet)
Shop for more chikankari pieces here.
Make this your festive fashion choice for the season.
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