Are you even best friends with another woman if you don’t have vastly different aesthetics when it comes to personal style, fashion, and lifestyle choices? But if there is one thing every woman in this country can agree upon, it is the lore of Chikankari kurtas. Chikankari kurtis have been a staple in every woman’s wardrobe for years. Although they originated in the Lucknow region of Northern India, today, you can see the influence of Chikankari kurtis across India, at least, if not worldwide.
Chikankari kurtas are beautifully embroidered kurtas that use intricate threadwork to create motifs such as leaves, flowers, swirls, paisleys, and other abstract patterns. The word Chikankari itself is a Persian word for ‘embroidery work’, and it is usually done with white threads on brightly-coloured fabrics. Kurtas are the most popular choice when it comes to Chikankari, but these days, you can find sarees, lehengas, shirts, and more with this timeless pattern and embroidery style. But this is not even the best part, since India experiences a tropical climate, every weather demands a different fabric to sustain the temperature, humidity, and precipitation levels. Thus, a different fabric during summer, winter, and monsoon is a must. And the versatility of Chikankari kurtis blends in perfectly with any fabric of your choice. Let’s see the top fabrics you can choose from to get your perfect Chikankari Kurti for every season.
Top 6 Fabrics For Chikankari Kurtis
- Cotton
This is by far the most common and best fabric choice for a Chikankari Kurti. They are lightweight, perfect for Indian summers that come with a chance of humidity. Even the long-lasting nature of the cotton Chikankari fabric guarantees that the elaborate patterns will not fade. Because of its exceptional breathability, comfort, natural colouring, high durability, softness, absorbency, dye retention, and lightweight nature, cotton is one of the greatest fabrics for Chikankari.
- Muslin
Muslin is the most traditional choice of fabric when it comes to Chikankari Kurtis. They are extremely lightweight, almost translucent, and make up the perfect base for the delicate threadwork to shine. The craftsmanship is intricate yet thick and, when placed on an almost sheer fabric, allows the pattern to stand out and showcase its elegance through and through. This is perfect for hot and dry weather.
- Mulmul
Mulmul is the softest version of pure cotton that is extremely lightweight and soft. It is made with a high thread count, making it a light and fine fabric. If you have a Chikankari Kurti made with mulmul fabric, you are bound to experience ultimate comfort.
- Georgette
Gorgettes are also lightweight and sheer, but they are not the most breathable fabrics, making them a chic choice for winter, when you don’t want to layer on heavy fabrics, but also want to keep your body warm.
- Silk
A fabric that’s the epitome of elegance and sophistication is silk, may it be Banarasi, Mysore, Kanjivaram, or Chanderi. Chikankari works for a silk kurta, which is perfect if you want to wear something comfortable yet ornamental for a festive occasion or a wedding function. Silk Chikankari Kurtis are ideal for events that depend on dressing up but are not too heavy, such as a Mehendi function, Sangeet night, or an office Diwali party.
- Velvet
Velvet is a rich and elegant fabric that can be worn during the colder seasons. It is the perfect material for suave occasions where you need to dazzle with perfection. A perfect evening fabric that glides effortlessly and showcases a whole range every time you move. This fabric with the Chikankari work, is a work of art.
Parting Thoughts
Chikankari kurtis are a great must-have for your wardrobe. They are extremely versatile and inclusive to all. When we say versatile we mean it, it suits casual events as well as festive occasions. Whether you are looking for an outfit to wear to work or a wedding, a Chikankari Kurti is waiting for you. Depending on the fabric and colour, you can choose one that suits the time of day, season of the year, and purpose of the occasion. Moreover, Chikankari Kurtis is also inclusive of all body types. Whether you have an hourglass, apple, or pear-shaped body, a Chikankari Kurti is bound to accentuate your high points and make you look fabulous no matter what.
Another great feature of a Chikankari Kurti is that you don’t need a lot to style it, the fabric comes with an intricate and elaborate design that is more than enough for you to look stylish. Add humble oxidized jewellery, some Joothis, a bindi, minimal makeup, and a handbag or tote to finish the look. Perfect for the tropical Indian weather, you can also choose a fabric that fits perfectly with the season and helps you stay cool in the summer and hot in the winter.
