Blue Chikankari Kurta

The Blue Chikankari Kurta is a traditional wear that can rightfully be considered an integral part of a woman’s wardrobe. It uniquely combines Chikankari embroidery tradition and present-day fashion trends.

A strong component of its aesthetic and traditional value, the embroidered outfit represents a great dress for formal attire besides reflecting the amazing craftsmanship of Indian weavers worldwide.

What Sets Blue Chikankari Kurta Apart?

The handcrafted outfit stands out for several reasons

• Colour Contrast: The colour blue provides a striking contrast to the white embroidery making the intricate designs more prominent and visually appealing.

• Symbolism: Blue gives a feeling of prestige or a royal touch besides adding a touch of elegance and tranquillity to the garment

• Modern Twist: The simple use of the blue colour can be considered a modern addition to the traditional elements of chikankari.

• Versatility: A combination of blue and white together makes the kurta suitable for business and casual occasions.

• Popularity: The innovative combination has also differentiated the Blue Chikankari Kurta within the fashion world, especially among fashion enthusiasts who appreciate the blend of conventional and modern art.

What is the Process of Making Blue Chikankari Kurta?

The process of making a garment is quite elaborate and involves intricacies of creative chikankari work that involve combining conventional styles with contemporary looks. Here’s a detailed look at each step, along with the precautions to ensure the highest quality:

Cutting

Preparation starts by cutting the fabric from a larger raw fabric. It is followed by selecting suitable fabrics from Georgette, cotton, silk and other light fabrics. Here the material is taken and then cut to the necessary size to construct the Kurta. One needs to carefully measure so that there is minimal wastage and the dress fits appropriately.

Stitching

Stitching of the two pieces of fabric is done and they are joined together with a running stitch converting the piece of fabric into the basic shape of the Kurta. When sewing, it is important to sew perfectly straight and evenly to avoid ruination of the garment and give it a professional look.

Chhapai (Block Printing)

The next step is the block printing process in which the actual design is done on the fabric material. While laminating, wooden blocks with fine works are coated with washable ink and then impressed on the fabric to make guides visible for the embroidery.

Embroidery

The most crucial step of embroidery requires craftsmen to hand stitch small motifs like bakhiya, phanda or jail. They have to be very careful to avoid tearing the threads apart and make them look professional. It is important here to avoid crushing the fabric to ensure uniform stitches are done.

Washing

In the later process after the embroidery, the Kurta is washed to remove block printing ink as well as any pollutants. Here, it is important to avoid the use of strong washing agents and hot water. It may cause the embroidery to become detached and the fabric reduced in size.

Dyeing

The fabric is subsequently dyed blue, to get a bright and unique colour of the Kurta. The final result is the Blue Chikankari Kurta as we know it today. Using better quality dyes is recommended here to avoid disparities. This ensures that there is zero contact with water for a given time after dyeing; Lastly, rinse thoroughly to eliminate any minimal traces of dye.

Finishing

This step requires examining small issues, such as loose threads or minor defects in the Kurta. The edges of the garment are enclosed and all the accessories like buttons or any extra touch on the garments are attached.

Ironing

Last but not least, the Kurta is ironed to dress it up neatly. It is important here to choose a minimal heat setting and press inside the fabric to avoid damaging the embroidery.

Historical Significance

Origin of Chikankari Embroidery

Chikankari is of intricate handmade stitching or embroidery work that is linked to the city of Lucknow in India. Historical evidence points to its traces during the Mughals. Also, this ornamental form of stitchery is said to have been made famous by Jhahangir’s wife, Nur Jahan.

Originally, Chikankari was embroidered on muslin cloth with white coloured thread, but over the years, it now is available in a variety of fabrics and coloured threads. The evolution of Blue Chikankari Kurta is framed to cover every minor detail that adds to the aesthetics of ethnic wear.

In the Chikankari Embroidery process, the blue colour was added to make it more contemporary and look less traditional. Blue as a color symbolizes royalty and success in addition to bringing a sense of calmness. It appeals to one’s sense of aesthetics against the white embroidery. This evolution has made Blue Chikankari Kurta a hit in the fashion world for people who enjoy wearing a traditional look in modern attire.

Elegant Embroidery Designs

The element that further enhances the beauty of the outfit is the fact that it is a dress that comes along with exquisite embroidery work. These designs are made by the most skillful artisans by stitching flowers, paisley shapes or geometry on the cloth. Every single stitch – bakhiya (shadow work), phanda (knot), and jaali (net) not only gives the appearance of embroidery but also makes every piece unique. They enhance the texturing of garments and make each piece different.

Time-Consuming Process

Crafting a Blue Chikankari Kurta requires a unique technique that takes a lot of time and skill. Even when it comes to designing patterns and cutting the fabric, block printing and hand embroidery as well as sewing, every step is carefully carried out. It would be interesting to know that minimal designs might need a few days but complicated kurta designing may take weeks to complete.

Styles and Variations

The embroidered kurta is trendy and comes in various styles, colours, sizes and designs to meet different occasions or an individual’s desirable style. Right from simple straight-cut kurtas to ethnic attractive Anarkali suits, the choices do not end. Therefore, one can find a Chikankari Kurta for every occasion, it can be a Chikankari Kurta for casual outings, business meetings, or parties.

Fabric Choices

While cotton remains a popular choice for its breathability and comfort, Chikankari Kurti for women are also made using other fabrics such as georgette, silk, and chiffon. Each fabric brings its unique characteristics to the kurta, enhancing its appeal and making it suitable for different seasons and occasions.

Popularity and Market Trends

The Blue Chikankari Kurta has successfully become a popular product. It has even walked the ramp in fashion shows and been worn by celebrities around the world. The blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern design attracts women from across the world.

Market Distribution

The data below shows the nationwide popularity and demand for the art form. As evident from the data, it has a substantial market share from the metropolitan cities.

How to Style a Blue Chikankari Kurta?

Chikankari Embroidered Kurta can be styled in various looks, making the outfit look and feel unique in its way. Here are some suggestions:

Eternal Elegance for Formal Events

Wear it with a vibrant or light-coloured silk or chiffon dupatta to get a classic look. One can team this with fitted trousers or churidar and adorn it with silver jhumkas and a beautiful statement ring. This look is ideal for weddings.

Casual Yet Cool Daily Outfit

Just for a simple outing, you can even wear the Blue Chikankari Kurta with denim jeans and leather sandals. With a simple addition of the bracelet and a pair of sunglasses, the impression given out is of an effortlessly glamorous look.

Bohemian Vibes at Music Events

Pair it with palazzo pants or a flowy maxi skirt for that spring/summer look. Throw on some ethnic features such as a hippie, thick silver jewelry, a fringe bag, and gladiator sandals to complete the festival look.

Comfortable Wear for Your Office

These kurtas can be styled with formal trousers and blazers to give them a more business-like appearance. It is perfect for meetings or an office-related event and requires heels and simple silver accessories at the most.

Festive Look

Since it originally was worn with traditional ethnic wear, pair the Kurta with an embellished skirt or sharara pants. Accessorise it with a Kundan necklace set and a clasp clutch during functions such as Diwali.

Winter Nights

Stack it on top of leggings or skinny jeans. Accessorise with a warm scarf, proper ankle boots and a properly structured coat to keep warm and fashionable.

Summer Cool

Here you can easily wear the Kurta with cotton or linen trousers for a casual summery feel. Include open-toed shoes and a straw hat and hit the beach or a garden party.

What are the best fabrics to choose for a blue embroidered kurta?

Although designers have explored embroidery on various fabrics, some of the most suitable options are discussed below:

Cotton

Ideal for hot climates, cotton is breathable and comfortable, making it perfect for everyday wear.

Georgette

Lightweight and flowy, georgette adds elegance and is suitable for both day and evening wear.

Silk

Luxurious and sophisticated, silk Chikankari Kurtas are perfect for formal occasions.

Mulmul

Extremely soft and lightweight, mulmul offers a delicate drape and is ideal for casual outings.

Chiffon

Known for its sheer quality, chiffon adds a feminine touch and is perfect for layering.

How to choose the right blue embroidered kurta for your body type?

• Apple Shape: It is preferable to choose those with a V-neckline and additional flared appearances for the bottom part of the attire. This gives an impression of a slimmer and longer upper body.

• Pear Shape: Women Kurtas with complicated designs of sleeves or neckline and A-line cutting should be considered as fit proportions.

• Hourglass Shape: Choose Kurtas that fit properly and define the waist more especially. If there are strings or belts on the outfit, it will improve the overall appearance.

• Rectangle Shape: Subtle ruffling or layering will add depth and detail. Longer silhouettes that create flared or flattering empire waist styles are also favourable.

How can you best maintain and care for a blue embroidered kurta?

To maintain the elegance of your Blue Chikankari Kurta, it is advisable to avoid ironing them excessively. Here are some tips:

Washing

Please hand wash in cold water with a mild soap or preferably washing powder. You should never use bleach or other strong chemicals on this fabric type as it damages. It is important not to twist it or rub it hard, just roll it back and forth to remove the excess fluid from the garment.

Drying

It is recommended that you hang the clothes in a dry shade since colours can fade easily when exposed to direct sunshine for long hours. Make sure it dries outside but on a flat surface or the clothes hanger. Do not let it dry in the sun.

Ironing

Iron from the back, with dryer temperatures to medium heat setting. Cover with a cloth to avoid any complications on the embroidery.

Storage

To preserve the quality, it is best to store them in a cool, dry area. To avoid stretching the fabric, ensure that it is folded properly and not hung for a long time. Thus, to retain colour and fabric texture, avoid exposure to lighting as well as damp environments.