Chikankari belongs to the Mughal Era which originated the embroidery art on different types of fabrics. It is made using white thread on different fabrics like cotton, muslin, Georgette, silk, etc. Chikankari reflects the cultural significance that lies in its threadwork. The Royal people of Lucknow started the embroidery work with multiple patterns using thread. The popular fabric is widely used to add elegance, regality, and sophistication to the fabrics. Now Chikankari has spread all over the world including Pakistan. The designers always add Chikankari to their collections to show the importance of royal culture. Indian history has deep roots in Chikankari which began with white embroidery but over the time passes, people have followed different cultures and styles which adds rich embellishments to the designs. Today, Chikankari plays an important role in the fashion industry with its delicate patterns and tradition.
Differences in Traditional and Modern Chikankari Embroidery
Traditional Style
Modern Style
- Thread and needlework on muslin fabric
- Floral patterns
- White embroidery with white threads
- Wedding or formal occasions
- Hand stitching on lightweight fabrics like cotton, Georgette, silk
- Geometric Patterns
- Colorful threads
- Used for daily routine wear
Categories of Motifs
The Mughal Empire was inspired by nature so they intricate motifs in different designs and patterns. Let’s take a view of some of the motifs used in Chikankari embroidery.
- Floral
- Animals of beautiful shapes
- Butterflies
- Geometrical Shapes like drops, scale
- Trees and Leaves
- Fish
- Grass
Fabrics Used for ChikanKari Embroidery
Chikankari can be mostly done on lightweight and smooth fabric. However, people adapted different cultures and designs which introduced more fabrics like Silk, Georgette, Chanderi, and rayon for the mesmerizing work of Chikankari.
1. Muslin
- Highly preferable
- Lightweight
- Sheen Texture
2. Cotton
- Commonly Used
- Inexpensive
- Comfortable to wear
3. Georgette
- Roughly smooth
- Irritated to the skin if not pure
- Cheap to buy
4. Chanderi Silk
- Luxurious Appeal
- Expensive
- Soft to skin
Fabrics Used for ChikanKari Embroidery
Cotton and Muslin:
The best fabrics used for Chikankari embroidery are cotton and muslin as they both feel comfortable against the skin and are very lightweight to wear in summer or winter. Designers of today’s age also intricated embroidered work on soft and sheen texture cotton and muslin.
Light and Pastel Shades:
The delicate and rich patterns of Chikankari is preferably done on light and pastel shades which highlights the detailing of work art.
Pakistan’s Embroidered Specialty: ChikanKari
Today, Chikankari is not only bounded to textiles industry, it has recognized its values to different sectors not only in Pakistan but all over the world. The traditional Chikankari was done on fabrics but now Chikankari is present in every aspect. The products starting from handbags, pillows, wall decorations, and curtains are elevated with the beautiful artwork of Chikankari. The unlimited colors with unlimited rich patterns infused in Chikankari upgraded the fashion industry of Pakistan.
Styling Secrets of Chikankari
From the world of traditional to modern Chikankari, the styling ideas vary from desi shalwar kameez, and sarees to modern Kurtis and bottoms. Chikankari creates delicate patterns of floral designs and motifs. The detailing of art lies in Chikankari enriches the world of grace and comfort.
Let’s explore the various styles to wear:
Sarees:
The traditional and ethnic attire adds a touch of sophistication in women wardrobe. The fabric mostly used in production of sarees are cotton and silk due to the soft and shine texture.
Lehenga:
Special occasions attire, lehenga is the cultural outfit. Sequin and mirror embellishments are intricated on Chikankari lehenga to capture beauty.
Long and Short Kurtis:
The modern style to wear in Chikankari is intricated on Kurtis whether paired up with jeans, skirts or palazzos.
Shalwar Kameez:
The common and oldest form is Chikankari embroidery on Shalwar Kameez. These are typically using floral motifs and designs on Georgette stuff.
Dupattas:
Chikankari is mostly popular for dupattas embroidery which is done on borders. The heavy dupattas are used for weddings or formal events.
Raji's Clothing, The Shining Star: ChikanKari Collection of Royal Art
Raji’s Clothing, The Shining Star always chooses a new way to give you a chance of showcasing your individuality. We, at Raji’s Clothing try to upgrade your self-confidence with our elegant and royal collection of outfits. To bring a graceful look into your personality, Raji’s Clothing presents Chikankari unstitched articles. The Chikankari embroidery is intricated on the soft silky fabric, Silk karandi. The sheen texture of silk karandi is enriched with the delicate patterns of Chikankari. The silk karandi Chikankari combined with an embroidered shawl is a testament to regality and sophistication. Chikankari is a masterpiece of fashion that creates a look of enchanting regality on every special occasion whether it’s a wedding series, formal or casual events, professional look. Raji’s Clothing in Pakistan and outside the borders provides convenience for women who find Chikankari as a symbol of style and comfort.
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