As the summer heat increases, so does the desire for cool, breathable fabrics. Chikankari, an intricately embroidered muslin fabric from Lucknow, India, is the perfect choice for this season. Delicate embroidery, airy textures and timeless elegance make it a staple in men's and women's wardrobes. 

Whether you're an experienced Chikankari enthusiast or a curious beginner, this guide will provide you with the knowledge and tips to make an informed purchase this summer.

1. Know Your Chikankari:

Chikankari embroidery adorns a variety of base fabrics, each with its unique characteristics:

• Cotton Chikankari: Cotton Chikankari is the first choice, as it is breathable and has a refreshing feel, perfect for hot summer days.
  
  
• Georgette Chikankari: The soft drape and subtle sheen of georgette lends a luxurious feel to chikankari designs, making it perfect for evening wear or special occasions.
  
  
• Silk Chikankari: If you are looking for the ultimate luxury, Silk Chikankari is the epitome of luxury. The smooth texture and glossy sheen add a special charm to any outfit.

2. Understand the Chikankari Fabric Options:

Chikankari comes in a variety of base fabrics, each offering unique properties. Cotton Chikankari is the most popular choice, known for its breathability and lightweight feel. Georgette Chikankari adds a touch of elegance with its sheer and flowing texture.

3. Explore the Summer Embroidery Styles:

Chikankari embroidery comes in various styles, each characterized by its stitch count and intricacy. The most common styles are:

• Bara Chikankari: Features larger, more spaced-out stitches, creating a delicate and airy appearance.
  
  
• Pata Chikankari: Utilizes closely packed stitches, resulting in a denser and more intricate embroidery pattern.
  
  
• Ulta Chikan: Employs a unique technique where the embroidery is done on the reverse side of the fabric, creating a subtle and understated effect.
  
  

4. Choose the Right Color for Chikankari Fabric:

When it comes to choosing an outfit, White Chikankari is the top choice due to its elegance and timeless appeal. Chikankari offers you the opportunity to express your personal style in a multitude of ways, as it comes in a wide variety of vibrant colors and don't shy away from exploring them:

• Pastel Shades: Soft hues like lavender, mint green, and baby pink exude a feminine charm.
  
  
• Vibrant Colors: For a bolder statement, opt for vibrant shades like turquoise, fuchsia, or coral.

5. Consider the Style for Chikankari Fabric:

 

Chikankari is not limited to a specific type of clothing and can be applied to a diverse range of garments. If you're in search of a classic summer look, you might want to contemplate wearing either a chikankari kurta or salwar kameez. For a more modern style, choose a chikankari dress, top or skirt.

6. Assess the Quality Of Chikankari Fabric:

If you are planning on shopping for Chikankari fabrics online or in store, it is recommended that you carefully inspect the embroidery and fabric to ensure their quality. It is important for the stitches to be both even and consistent, as well as for the fabric to have a soft and smooth texture.

7. Check for Authenticity Of Chikankari Fabric:

Genuine Chikankari fabrics are typically hand-embroidered, and the embroidery should extend to the edges of the fabric. If the embroidery appears machine-made or is only present on the front of the fabric, it may not be authentic Chikankari.

8. Support Local Artisans:

Consider purchasing Chikankari fabrics directly from local artisans or reputable stores that support traditional craftsmanship. This ensures fair wages for the artisans and preserves the cultural heritage of Chikankari.

9. Care and Maintenance of Chikankari Fabric:

Taking good care of Chikankari is essential due to its delicate nature. You can choose to either hand wash or machine wash it on a delicate cycle using mild detergent. Avoid harsh bleaching or excessive drying.

10. Explore Online Options:

The world of Chikankari is now at your fingertips with online shopping. Reputable online retailers offer a vast selection of authentic Chikankari garments and fabrics, allowing you to browse and compare from the comfort of your home.

BONUS Tips:

• When shopping online, read customer reviews and check the seller's reputation.
• Consider purchasing a sample piece before buying larger quantities.
• Store Chikankari garments properly to prevent wrinkles and fading.
• Embrace the versatility of Chikankari by incorporating it into your home décor with curtains, tablecloths, or pillowcases.

As you embark on your Chikankari shopping journey, remember that these tips are just a starting point.

 

Explore the diverse world of Chikankari fabrics, experiment with different styles and colors, and let your personal taste guide you. With its timeless elegance and enduring charm, Chikankari is sure to become a treasured part of your summer wardrobe.