Chikankari Kurti designs have evolved to become an integral part of India’s rich textile heritage. This delicate and intricate technique of hand embroidery requires immense skill and patience as artisans weave together fine threads to create exquisite patterns on fabric. With roots tracing back to Persia, Chikankari was brought to India by Persian nobles, including the legendary Noor Jahan, wife of Jahangir.
Over time, this traditional art form has adapted to new colors and designs, starting from its humble beginnings as a white-on-white embroidery technique. Today, Chikankari Kurti designs continue to captivate hearts in the Indian subcontinent, where the love for intricate patterns and handcrafted beauty remains unbroken.
What to Wear with a Chikankari Kurti?
With their versatility and endless styling possibilities, chikankari kurtis are a fashion lover’s dream come true. Pair one with your favorite jeans for an indo-western look that exudes elegance, or go full-on traditional with matching palazzo pants and statement oxidized silver jewelry. The options are truly limitless when it comes to styling a chikankari kurti.
The intricate white thread work of chikankari is typically done on white or colored fabric.
Choose the color that complements your skin tone and body type, then let the beauty of the kurti shine with minimal jewelry. If you prefer a more casual daytime look, team your full jaal chikankari kurti with understated accessories for a relaxed vibe.
For a more simplistic design, accessorize to elevate the overall style. Statement chandbalis, layered silver necklaces, chunky bangles, and anklets are all great options to consider when styling a chikankari kurti.
Since chikankari kurtis often feature simple designs, you can add an extra touch of glamour with statement sleeves or necklines. For inspiration, take a look at these stylish sleeve designs for suits and let your creativity run wild.
Celebrity Style
Kriti Sanon’s effortless off-duty look has stolen our hearts, and it’s not hard to see why. She effortlessly pairs a beautifully crafted chikankari kurti with crisp white chikankari pants for a stylish ensemble that exudes simplicity and elegance. The modern A-line shape of her kurti adds a touch of sophistication, making it perfect for everyday wear. For those looking to invest in new chikankari pants, white is an excellent choice as it can be easily paired with a variety of tops.
And if you’re stuck on how to style your palazzo pants with kurtis, we’ve got you covered – check out our previous post for some inspiration.
How to Wear a Cotton Chikankari Kurti
There’s something undeniably charming about slipping into a soft cotton kurti adorned with the exquisite embroidery of chikankari. The timeless elegance it exudes is unparalleled, making it a staple in many a wardrobe. As one of the oldest and most popular forms of chikankari, the classic cotton kurti remains a crowd favorite. Over time, this traditional technique has evolved to incorporate various materials, yet its essence remains unchanged.
To add a touch of effortless sophistication, simply pair your chosen kurti with statement earrings for a look that’s equal parts casual and chic.
Indo-western Style
Don’t let tardiness ruin your movie night. When time’s running short, rely on timeless style. Combine a beloved kurti with a trendy tank top, comfortable casual pants, and add a touch of elegance with silver bangles and a statement ring. This effortless indo-western fusion is sure to garner attention without breaking a sweat.
Can I Wear Chikankari Kurti with Jeans?
Elevate your fashion game with a timeless fusion of style and glamour, as embodied by A-lister Anushka Sharma’s recent resurgence of long Chikankari Kurti paired with blue ripped jeans. This chic and modern look is sure to turn heads, whether you’re strutting down the red carpet or just running errands. To recreate this trendy design, try pairing your kurti with beachy waves for a laid-back yet stylish vibe.
If you’re looking for more inspiration on styling kurtis with jeans, here are some additional ideas to get you started.
With Chikankari Pants
Achieve a effortlessly chic and modern appearance by combining your kurti with chikan pants in a bold, contrasting color combination. To elevate the look further, add some statement-making oxidized silver jewelry, go for an effortless open-hair style, and you’ll be all set to exude a contemporary yet laid-back vibe.
Angrakha Style Chikankari
In the fashion world, there’s a fresh spin on the classic angrakha kurti – fine chikankari jaal adorning the garment in a modern and stylish take. This versatile piece can be worn as both a kurti and a dress, making it perfect for various occasions. Style it with strappy sandals for a chic brunch look or pair it with matching pants and embroidered mules for a more traditional appearance.
For those interested, the ‘Black Angrakha Chikankari Kurti’ is available for $38.99.
Anarkali Chikankari Kurta
The artistry of traditional Chikankari embroidery, rooted in a rich history and cultural heritage, takes on a new level of sophistication when paired with the elegance of an Anarkali Kurti. The resulting fusion is nothing short of enchanting.
For the Beach
Elevate your beach style without sacrificing comfort by combining your black chikankari kurti with a few stylish essentials. Start with the kurti itself, available for just $39.99. Then, add some understated flair with minimal jewelry and strappy sandals that will elongate your legs. Top it all off with trendy sunglasses and you’ll be rocking a chic beach look that’s both modern and modest.
Lucknavi Chikankari
Lucknow’s status as a premier hub of chikankari has been formally recognized by the prestigious Goodweave Institute for Runners (GIR), solidifying its claim to being the most authentic and beautiful form of this intricate craft. When styling your outfit, pair Lucknavi chikankari with modern essentials like blue jeans, strappy sandals, and leave your hair open in loose waves to create a chic, contemporary look that seamlessly blends traditional elegance with modern flair.
Bridal Chikenkari Designs
Chikankari’s elegance knows no bounds! Pair it with modern elements to create a stunning outfit perfect for the wedding season. Imagine an Anarkali kurti adorned with heavy mukaish work, accompanied by a statement necklace, matching earrings, and a messy bun. This classic look is not just limited to traditional occasions; it can also be worn to Indian engagement functions by both brides and guests alike.
With Dupatta
Take your style to the next level by experimenting with a little mixology. Combine a soft pastel-hued kurti with a bold, contrasting dupatta for a chic and modern celebrity-approved look that’s sure to turn heads. Consider pairing option 1, the White Chikankari Kurti at $49.99, with option 2, the Yellow Dupatta at $14.99.
Sleeveless Chikankari Kurti
A bridesmaid’s or sister-of-the-bridal wardrobe staple, the sleeveless kurti is a head-turner that exudes confidence and style. To create a monochromatic masterpiece, pair a vibrant chikan kurti with matching pants and complement it with bold silver statement earrings. This effortless ensemble ensures you’ll be dancing the night away in comfort and elegance.
Short Chikankari Kurta with Jeans
Embodying the essence of understated elegance, a short chikankari kurti adorned with intricate fine chikan jaal is an ideal choice for a casual yet stylish outing with friends or a solo shopping adventure. When paired with distressed blue jeans and a effortless messy ponytail, this outfit exudes a perfect blend of modernity and timelessness.
Style it with a Sharara
This wedding season, the buzz around shararas is undeniable. To give your look a stylish twist, why not consider a chic chikankari sharara? Pair a stunning chikankari kurti with contrasting sharara for a modern and on-trend appearance. Add some extra flair with a statement dupatta, bold jewelry, and you’ll be the center of attention at any party. To get started, check out these fabulous options: a classic white chikankari kurti for $59.99 or yellow sharara pants for $25.99.
Multicoloured Chikankari
For those who crave vibrancy and despise monochromatic attire, fear not! We’ve curated a stunning chikankari Kurti featuring intricate, multicolored weaving that’s sure to leave you breathless. To elevate this traditional garment into a modern bohemian-chic ensemble, simply pair it with effortless blow-dried hair and embroidered juttis.
With Contrasting Weave
Chikan work has evolved over time, and while traditional pieces typically feature embroidery in the same fabric shade, modern designs often incorporate contrasting colors for added visual interest. A prime example is this stunning pastel chikan kurti with white chikan embroidery that adds a touch of elegance to any outfit. Whether styled with a messy bun and gajra for a dressy look or paired with ripped jeans for a relaxed vibe, this innovative design is sure to captivate.
For those looking to make a statement, the Grey Chikankari Kurti ($69.99) is an excellent choice, offering a perfect blend of classic charm and modern flair.
Kaftan Style
For a fashion-forward take on traditional attire, consider pairing the modern kaftan with intricate chikankari embroidery in a contrasting hue. Elevate the overall aesthetic by adding smoky eye makeup, subtle silver jewelry, and statement anklets that exude understated sophistication.
Front Open Chikankari Cape
For fashion enthusiasts, this chikankari cape kurti embodies the epitome of sophistication. Its understated elegance makes it an ideal choice for those seeking to make a stylish impression without being too ostentatious. When paired with a chic messy bun and a traditional clutch, this outfit is sure to transform your evening outing into a memorable affair.
Chikankari Gown
Elegance personified, a chikankari gown offers a perfect blend of modernity and sophistication. Its pastel white hue exudes refined luxury, making it an ideal choice for special occasions. When paired with a stylish messy bun, striking eye makeup, and statement earrings, this ensemble is sure to make you stand out at your friend’s sangeet party or any other social gathering.
Jacket Kurti
Chikankari jackets kurti have been making waves in the fashion world, captivating the attention of influencers and celebrities alike. This trendy take on traditional wear combines style with practicality, offering a chic and modern option for those who want to make a statement. Pair it with a twisted braid, silver chandbalis, or layered necklace to elevate your look and channel your inner fashionista.
Ombre Look
Get ready to elevate your wardrobe with a stunning fusion of traditional and modern elements! An ombre kurti is the perfect blend of Indian modernity and contemporary style, offering a sophisticated and comfortable fashion option. The intricate chikan pattern imbues it with classic charm, while the novice ombre technique adds a touch of whimsy and flair. This unique piece of clothing is sure to make you stand out in a crowd.
With a Gharara
Stumped on what to wear to that upcoming haldi party? Look no further! A versatile yellow chikankari kurti paired with a flowy gharara is the perfect solution for any daytime function. This chic and stylish outfit can be easily dressed up or down, making it suitable for various occasions. For a more formal look, team the kurti with matching pants and add some sparkle with silver jewelry. If you’re loving this combination, be sure to check out the latest gharara suit designs for more inspiration.
To make your decision even easier, consider Deepika’s stunning yellow kurti and gharara ensemble, designed by Anjul Bhandari.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is chikankari in fashion this year?
For centuries, the ancient art of chikankari has remained a beloved favorite among many. Its timeless appeal is perhaps best exemplified by the classic chikankari kurti, which continues to be a staple in many wardrobes. But its influence doesn’t stop at clothing alone – nowadays, you can also find chikankari adorning everything from handbags and masks to clutches and other accessories. With a chikankari outfit, you can’t go wrong, as it effortlessly combines traditional charm with modern flair.
Q. Which type of Chikankari is the best?
In the realm of chikankari, Lucknow stands out as a premier hub, thanks to its rich cultural heritage and centuries-old tradition. The intricately embroidered fabrics, crafted by skilled artisans known as Chikankaar, are renowned for their exceptional quality and unparalleled craftsmanship. With its history deeply rooted in Indian culture, Lucknow’s classic chikankari is the epitome of elegance and sophistication.
Q. How do I style a chikankari kurta?
When it comes to styling your chikankari Kurti, you’re spoiled for choice. To elevate the outfit, combine it with gold chandbalis, a sleek bun, and an embroidered clutch for a sophisticated look. Alternatively, opt for a more relaxed daytime ensemble by pairing it with a chunky silver necklace, silver bangles, and traditional juttis that prioritize comfort.
Q. What shoes to wear with a chikankari kurti?
When it comes to pairing desi outfits with the perfect footwear, I believe there’s no better combination than wearing kurtas with traditional Indian shoes. For me, chickenkari kurtas paired with juttis or khussas are a match made in heaven. Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or just want to add some cultural flair to your everyday look, this combination is hard to beat.
While embellished and fancy juttis can elevate your outfit for a special occasion, simple and plain juttis are better suited for casual wear.
Q. Where to shop for chikankari kurtas?
When it comes to purchasing chikankari outfits, it’s often best to source them directly from the original creator. This approach not only helps ensure you receive a fair price but also guarantees that the weavers behind the intricate embroidery reap the maximum rewards for their craft. If you’re unable to find these skilled artisans in local markets, rest assured that many Indian and Pakistani brands are now producing stunning, high-quality chikankari kurtas that rival the originals.