Chikankari. It most definitely brings to the fondest memories of beautiful floral motifs, light and neat embroidery, and richness of class. This ancient embroidery technique, which traces its roots in the erstwhile city of Lucknow, India, has become the heart of attention for fashion lovers for ages. Not to be taken simply as a collection of sew-on works, Chikankari embodies the labour and creativity of countless generations of artisans, where each of the thousands of stitches has a meaning that resonates with time and culture.
Chikankari continues to live on as it re-adapts itself to modern trends without being extinguished, losing its core value. Whether it is everyday wear that is chic and classy or a traditional outfit for festivals, Chikankari has got you covered from every angle. From the formal chikankari kurta for women to the stylish And comfy chikankari short kurti that allows someone to roam about freely, there is pretty much a Chikankari addition to each type of style. Now, with online spaces like Poshak Chikan Studio, a true chikankari house online, getting these exquisite items has become a child’s play.
In this article, we shall deeply examine Chikankari's intricacies, covering its origin, techniques, ways to style it, and how to source genuine ones such as Poshak Chikan Studio.
A Brief History and the Art of Chikankari
The name ‘Chikankari’ is rooted in the Persian language, with the word “Chikeen” meaning “fine embroidery”. It is said that Chikankari was brought to India by the Mughal rulers. Chikankari is embroidery executed in white thread on a white garment made of muslin or cotton. This embroidery has undergone several changes and now has many forms. Chikankari's craft includes multiple stitches and patterns.
It is important to outline each stage of the process of Chikankari in detail as it is complex and time-consuming. Chikankari consists of several stages:
- Block Printing- The block printing technique for fabric using wooden blocks is a crucial step in the chikan embroidery process.
- Embroidery- The designs are embroidered onto the fabric chiefly by hand. Basic Bakhiya (shadow stitch), Techi (running stitch), Phanda (knots), and Murri (grain stitch) are various stitches that are used.
- Washing and Finishing- The use of printing marks and starch on the embroidered fabric must be eliminated. The garment is then washed, cleaned and ironed for a crisp look.
Chikankari for Every Occasion
One of the greatest benefits of Chikankari is its adaptability to several circumstances ranging from casual outings to wedding ceremonies.
Everyday Elegance
If you are planning on spending the day with friends and family on a casual outing, There is nothing better than the use of a chikankari kurti. It is not only comfortable, but it complements the wearers in the best way possible. Combining this with jeans, leggings, or palazzos gives a relaxed yet sophisticated effect. To achieve a more modern look, a chikankari short kurti can be worn with skirts, denim shorts, or even in layers of dresses. These occasions are very good for doing errands, having a business coffee meeting with friends, or just going out on a low-key day.
Festive Celebrations
A chikankari kurta for women comes in handy when festivals and celebrations come around since it has a unique traditional touch. These kurtas can be worn with churidars, salwars or even lehengas for embellished accompaniment. The fine detailing of the embroidery gives off an elegant shine, making it ideal for such occasions.
Weddings and Formal Events
Further expanding, Chikankari can easily become part of more complex attires such as lehengas, sarees, and even gowns for those who want to have Chikankari at their weddings and more formal events. The famous intricate Chikan embroidery assists in making the outfit look luxurious and works wonderfully for someone looking to have a classy touch.
Styling Tips for Chikankari
Accessorizing
Dressing up chic and classy can be quite easy with Chikankari since it gives you the option to dress it up or dress it down with the right accessories. You can elevate a very basic Chikankari outfit into something sophisticated by adding traditional Indian jewellery such as jhumkas or silver earrings. You can achieve a minimalist and idealistic look using your slim jewellery or emphasizing piece jewellery to match the embroidery.
Colour Combinations
When it comes to the selection of colours, pastel shades of peach, mint green, and lavender can provide a soft and delicate look, whereas bold colours like navy blue, maroon, and even black can create stronger effects.
Footwear
Depending on the event and the attire, Chikankari can be paired with an array of footwear. Casual wear can include sandals or flats, while heels or other embellished footwear can set off a more formal look.
Where to Find Authentic Chikankari
While there is an increasing number of local shops in India that sell Chikankari garments, numerous online stores have made the garments globally accessible. There are many online sources as well as physical outlets where you can find authentic Chikankari.
In the case of quality and authenticity, Poshak Chikan Studio, an authentic house of chikankari online, is a well-known name. Poshak Chikan Studio offers a vast range of beautiful pieces of clothing, whether you are looking for a traditional cotton chikankari kurti, a trendy viscose chikan short chikankari kurti with sharara, or even a chikankari saree for women. There are various established places like Poshak Chikan Studio, an authentic house of chikankari that deals specifically with chikankari, and such stores offer only true chikankari and help protect traditional practised art.
Caring for Your Chikankari Garments
To be able to make use of Chikankari garments for a long time, maintaining them is key:
- Hand Washing: To clean Chikankari, it is advisable to wash them by hand. Employing a mild detergent and refraining from aggressive scrubbing are the methods to clean your chikankari kurtis.
- Drying: It is best not to dry these chikankari clothes under direct sunlight as it can lessen the intricate embroidery. Rather, dry them in a cooler place.
- Ironing: Turn your chikankari inside out and iron the garment while the setting is low, or put a thin cloth over the garment and protect the embroidery instead.
Chikankari: A Legacy of Artistry
Chikankari is not only an embroidery style but also speaks to the cultural aspect of India. Due to its classic touch and timeless style, it can be an accessory for any clothing. If you are headed for an important event and want to look for something stylish or easygoing, chikankari is the right fit. Now that the Poshak Chikan Studio, an authentic house of chikankari online, is available, the intricate garments are at your disposal. So, explore and appreciate Chikankari more. Don’t miss out on these delicate details in your wardrobe.