Chikankari is a delicate and beautiful embroidery style that originated in Lucknow, India. This intricate needlework uses white thread on fine muslin or cotton fabrics to create floral and geometric patterns. While chikankari has been around for centuries, it had faded from the modern fashion scene for some time. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in this traditional embroidery artform. Chikankari suit sets, especially, have made a major comeback in women’s ethnic wear.
History of Chikankari Suits
Chikankari suit sets were very popular in India until the 1970s. The art of chikankari originated in the Mughal courts, where royal women would wear exquisite white chikankari angarkha suits. The British also took a liking to chikankari during colonial rule. Back then, long ankle-length chikankari kurtas were paired with churidars. Over time, the silhouette evolved into more structured chikankari suits comprising a knee-length kurta and straight pants.
Chikankari suit sets were a wardrobe staple for Indian women for formal wear till western attire became popular in the later decades. The intricate needlework required a lot of time and skill, which also made chikankari expensive. As a result, authentic chikankari slowly faded from the market. Only a handful of artisans continued the tradition as most switched to machine embroidery to make quicker, affordable outfits.
Revival in Modern Fashion
Chikankari has seen a massive revival in the past decade, thanks to a renewed interest in Indian handcrafts and textiles. Fashion designers have helped bring chikankari back into the mainstream by incorporating it into modern indo-western silhouettes. From crop tops, skirts and dresses to jackets, gowns and sarees, chikankari is being reinterpreted in varied styles.
Leading fashion labels like Sabyasachi, Anita Dongre, and Manish Malhotra frequently use chikankari embroidery in their collections. Bollywood celebrities and influencers have also been spotted wearing chikankari lehengas and shararas at weddings and events. This has made chikankari hugely popular among young women again.
Chikankari suit sets, in particular, have made a stylish comeback for office wear, festivals and weddings. Contemporary chikankari kurta designs comprise short tunic-style kurtas paired with cigarette pants, palazzos or skirts. Designers are also experimenting with unique bomber jackets, capes and overlay dupattas embellished with chikankari.
Why Chikankari Suits are Popular Again
Here are some key reasons behind the revived popularity of chikankari suit sets in modern fashion:
- Versatile ethnic style- Chikankari suits allow women to stay connected to Indian culture while also appearing stylish and modern. The embroidery elevates simple cotton fabrics into works of art.
- Artisanal value- In an age of fast fashion and machine production, the artisanal craftsmanship of hand-embroidered chikankari is treasured. Each piece is unique and special.
- Romantic, feminine aesthetic- The delicate threadwork and floral patterns of chikankari have a soft, romantic feminine appeal. This sets it apart from the bolder zardozi or gota patti embroidery styles.
- Cool and comfortable- Chikankari fabric is breezy, lightweight and breathable. The suits are comfortable to wear even in hot weather. The pastel color palette is soothing to the eyes.
- Variety- From casual day wear to formal office suits and bridalwear, chikankari can be incorporated in many different outfit styles and silhouettes.
- Flattering for all- Chikankari suits are universally flattering for all body types. The embroidered yoke and borders accentuate the figure gracefully.
Where to Buy Modern Chikankari Suits
If you want to add some chikankari suit sets to your wardrobe, here are some options:
- Online shopping site like Zibaa have a wide variety of chikankari suits across budgets. You can filter search options according to price, size, color etc.
- Check designer brand websites. Many showcase their latest chikankari collections online.
- Visit multi-designer boutiques in your city that stock ethnic wear. Make sure to check reviews before you visit.
- For customized chikankari suits, visit local tailors and embroiderers in Lucknow. They can make pieces according to your design preferences.
- You can also buy directly from chikankari craft clusters in Lucknow. This allows you to meet the artisans and appreciate their work.
- Many NGOs and social enterprises like Avani support chikankari artisans. You can buy online from them while empowering craft communities.
Chikankari suit sets are the perfect blend of traditional charm and contemporary chic. From smart office wear to wedding guest wear, chikankari suits work beautifully for both casual and dressy occasions. The revival of chikankari in modern fashion has opened up a world of gorgeous options for women to explore.
