Step into a world of timeless elegance and exquisite craftsmanship with Chikankari kurtis. These beautiful garments, adorned with intricate hand embroidery, capture the essence of a centuries-old art form from Lucknow, India. Chikankari embroidery, with its delicate threadwork, intricate motifs, and rich historical roots, has mesmerized fashion enthusiasts across the globe. Each Chikankari kurta is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted by skilled artisans who dedicate their expertise and passion to creating a garment that embodies grace, tradition, and sophistication. Whether it’s the timeless allure of white-on-white designs or the fusion of vibrant colours and contemporary styles, lakhnavi Chikankari kurtis are a perfect blend of heritage and modernity, making them a coveted choice for those seeking elegance and artistic expression in their wardrobe.

History of Chikankari Work:

The historical roots of Chikankari can be traced back to the Mughal era in India. It is believed to have originated in the region of Lucknow in the 18th century. The art form flourished under the patronage of Mughal emperors, particularly during the reign of Emperor Jahangir. Chikankari embroidery was favoured by the nobility and the royal court, who appreciated its intricate beauty and delicate craftsmanship. The Mughal rulers and their families were known to adorn themselves with garments embellished with Chikankari embroidery, which added an aura of elegance and sophistication to their attire.

Despite facing challenges during the British colonial period and the subsequent decline of royal patronage, Chikankari managed to survive and revive its popularity over time. Today, it stands as a proud testament to the rich cultural heritage of Lucknow. It continues to be celebrated as a cherished art form that showcases the craftsmanship and artistic legacy of the region.

Best and Trendy Designs of Chikankari Kurta Collection with Images:

Chikan kurta for women is not new; they have been there for several decades, yet they have their unique little place in the Indian ethnic wear market. Here are our latest favourites in the Lucknow chikankari kurti looks.

1. Grey A-Line Chikankari Kurti:


Embrace understated elegance with a grey A-line chikankari kurti. This sophisticated garment beautifully combines the classic A-line silhouette with the delicate artistry of Chikankari embroidery. The soft grey hue lends a touch of versatility, allowing you to transition from casual to formal occasions with style effortlessly. The intricate Chikankari motifs, meticulously handcrafted in contrasting white threads, create a harmonious blend of simplicity and intricate beauty.

  • Design: Grey and White Floral Chikankari Kurta with Long Sleeves
  • Fabric: Georgette
  • Body Type: Hourglass, Thin
  • Occasion: Festivities
  • Wear With: White Palazzo
  • Style Tip: Add this pair with loafers and ethnic statement accessories for a beautiful look.

2. Mirror Work Chikankari Kurti:


This unique style combines the intricate embroidery of Chikankari with the shimmering allure of mirror work, creating a captivating blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary elegance. The delicate Chikankari motifs, meticulously handcrafted with fine threads, intertwine with the dazzling mirrors to create a stunning interplay of light and texture.

  • Design: Red Chikankari Kurta with Mirror Work
  • Fabric: Chiffon
  • Body Type: Hourglass, Thin
  • Occasion: Festivities
  • Wear With: White Palazzo
  • Style Tip: Add this pair with loafers and ethnic statement accessories for a beautiful look.

3. Mulmul Chikankari Short Kurti:


Indulge in the sheer comfort and ethereal charm of a mulmul chikankari short kurti. Crafted from the finest mulmul fabric and renowned for its lightweight and breathable nature, this short kurti is perfect for summer. The delicate Chikankari embroidery, meticulously handcrafted with intricate threadwork, adds a touch of elegance and grace to the garment.

  • Design: Yellow Chikankari Sleeveless Short Kurta
  • Fabric: Mulmul
  • Body Type: Hourglass, Thin
  • Occasion: Festivities
  • Wear With: White Palazzo and Sharara
  • Style Tip: Add this pair with loafers and ethnic statement accessories for a beautiful look.

4. Sleeveless Chikankari Straight Kurti:


Discover the epitome of contemporary elegance with a Sleeveless Chikankari Straight Kurti. This stylish garment seamlessly blends modern design with the exquisite artistry of Chikankari embroidery. The sleeveless silhouette offers a sleek and sophisticated look, perfect for showcasing your arms and staying cool during warmer seasons.

  • Design: Pink Chikankari Straight Kurta without Sleeves
  • Fabric: Polyester and Cotton
  • Body Type: Hourglass, Thin
  • Occasion: Festivities
  • Wear With: White Churidar and Leggings
  • Style Tip: Add this pair with loafers and ethnic statement accessories for a beautiful look.

5. Red Chikankari Sequence Kurti:


Experience the perfect blend of luxury and tradition with a red chikankari sequence kurti. This exquisite garment showcases the richness of red and the intricate beauty of chikankari embroidery, elevated by dazzling sequin embellishments. The vibrant red hue exudes confidence and captures attention, while the delicate Chikankari work adds a touch of elegance and cultural heritage.

  • Design: Red Chikankari Sequen Kurta with Three Quarter Sleeves
  • Fabric: Georgette
  • Body Type: Hourglass, Thin
  • Occasion: Festivities
  • Wear With: White and Red Pants and Palazzo
  • Style Tip: Add this pair with sandals and ethnic statement accessories for a beautiful look.

6. Cotton Chikankari Kurta with Palazzo:


Now nail the perfect Indian ethnic look with this beautiful green cotton chikan kurti paired with palazzo. This combination mesmerises, with vibrant hues and a subtle throw of elegance. It is ideal Indian wear with contemporary vibes. This is among the top trending chikan embroidery kurti design.

  • Design: Green Chikankari Kurta with Three Quarter Sleeves
  • Fabric: Cotton
  • Body Type: Hourglass, Thin
  • Occasion: Festivities
  • Wear With: White Palazzo
  • Style Tip: Add this pair with loafers and ethnic statement accessories for a beautiful look.

7. Sleeveless Chikankari Embroidery Kurta:


This is another gorgeous chikankari kurta we have come across. This sleeveless variant with a flared pattern and design are ideal for modern-day style statements, yet the intricate design and handmade craft. What do you think of this beautiful teal green chicken work kurta?

  • Design: Sleeveless Chikankari Embroidery Kurta in Teal Green
  • Fabric: Cotton
  • Body Type: Hourglass, Thin, and Pear
  • Occasion: Celebrations, Outings
  • Wear With: Palazzo or Straight Pants
  • Style Tip: Add this pair with heels or wedges, a clutch, and oxidized earrings for perfect looks.

8. Angrakha Chikankari Long Kurta:


Do you love the plush and royal looks and appearance? How about this outfit? This white and golden colour-toned angrakha chikankari kurta is just amazing. This timeless trend is classic and always in fashion, erupts with beautiful style and elegant appearance with exquisite design and styling. We love this chicken kurti for women’s outfits!

  • Design: Gold and White Color Angrakha Chikankari Long Kurta
  • Fabric: Poly Georgette
  • Body Type: Pear and Thin
  • Occasion: Weddings, Celebrations
  • Wear With: Golden or Peach Palazzo
  • Style Tip: Wear silver metallic heels, ethnic statement accessories, and a clutch.

9. Chikankari Short Kurti with Jeans:


This short chikankari design kurti in white colour is breathtaking. The white colour and its elegance never go out of the charm, and the short kurti style is modern and contemporary. Try this lovely one out, and we bet you can look graceful and stylish even on your regular days.

  • Design: White Square Neck Short Chikankari Kurti with Jeans
  • Fabric: Cotton
  • Body Type: Hourglass
  • Occasion: Regular
  • Wear With: Jeans
  • Style Tip: Wedges or loafers with dainty accessories can be a perfect pick.

10. Plus Size Georgette Chikankari Kurti:


This is perfect if you want a traditional chikan work kurti design. This mustard yellow and white chikankari hand-embroidered kurta are perfect for an elegant and charming look. It is ideal for regular wear and brings on bright classic hues. What do you think of this latest collection of chikankari kurtis?

  • Design: Mustard Yellow and White Chikankari Kurti with Long Sleeves
  • Fabric: Poly Georgette
  • Body Type: Hourglass, Plus Size, Pear
  • Occasion: Regular Outings
  • Wear With: White Pants or Leggings
  • Style Tip: Wear wedges or flats with simple styling and a clutch.

See More: Hand Work Kurtas

11. Designer Chanderi Chikankari Kurti:


This Chanderi magenta pink chikankari silk kurti is one of our all-time favourites. If you love such handloom works, this is a must-have. The bright colour elevates your sense of appearance and fashion, and the intricate work and design will add up to a beautiful personalized look. It is among the best chikankari kurti we have come across recently.

  • Design: Magenta Pink Chanderi Chikankari Kurti with Long Sleeves
  • Fabric: Chanderi Silk
  • Body Type: Thin and Petite
  • Occasion: Festivities
  • Wear With: White or Beige Leggings
  • Style Tip: Add this pair with wedges, statement earrings, hand-stacked accessories, and a sling bag.

12. Chikankari Printed Anarkali Kurti:


This blue and white Anarkali chikankari kurti is similar to beautiful designer wear. This colour statement and design patterns deliver a royal and plush appearance with vibrant hues. Check this one out, and we bet you will love it. This is stunning for an exquisite high-end celebration too!

  • Design: Blue and White Long Sleeves Anarkali Chikankari Kurta
  • Fabric: Viscose Rayon
  • Body Type: Pear, Hourglass
  • Occasion: Celebrations, Weddings
  • Wear With: Beige or Cream Pants
  • Style Tip: Wear this with heels and long ethnic accessories!

13. Lavender Chiffon Chikankari Kurta:


This chiffon chikankari kurti is another of the original well-known authentic design trends. It comes in the lavender shade, as seen above, and brings on mesmerizing look quickly. Moreover, this chikankari kurta for girls is comfortable and brings a subtle sense of style and fashion without heavy dazzling designs.

  • Design: Lavender Colour Chikankari Full Sleeve Kurta
  • Fabric: Chiffon
  • Body Type: Pear and Petite
  • Occasion: Regular
  • Wear With: White Pants
  • Style Tip: Sandals or flats with simple accessories and a bag are good.

14. Full Sleeve Chikankari Rayon Kurti:


We have another beautiful chikankari kurta in green colour and a-line shape. This is a woven work kurti design that is perfect for regular wear too. It can instantly add to the sense of style and elegance from colleges to offices and casual outings.

  • Design: Green Geometric Woven Design Chikankari Kurti
  • Fabric: Rayon
  • Body Type: Anyone
  • Occasion: Regular
  • Wear With: White and Beige Pants
  • Style Tip: Loafers, a handbag, and dainty accessories are a perfect choice.

15. Chikankari Kurti with Pant:


If you are amongst those women who love traditional designs and yet prefer something unique in pattern and appearance, we have it for you too. This lovely maroon and yellow chikankari kurta come with a paisley design, slit sleeves, and a stylized neck design. We love the overall modern look with a sleek and chic appearance.

  • Design: Maroon and Yellow Paisley Chikankari Kurta with Short Slit Sleeves
  • Fabric: Cotton
  • Body Type: Thin, Pear
  • Occasion: Festivities
  • Wear With: Red or Beige Pants
  • Style Tip: Tan-brown heels, ethnic long accessories, a bracelet, and a bag are perfect.

16. Chikan Hand Embroidered Black Top:


Black is the colour that most women tend to choose for a daily wear dress. Here is a classic black chikan kurti: a hand-embroidered short kurta made of Faux Georgette material. It is a front buttoned shirt-type kurti with a short mandarin collar. The front part is loaded with delicate chikankari work of murri and keel Kangan type. You can wear it with jeans or white leggings, black ballerina shoes and oxidized earrings – a captivating and bewitching look. It is wonderful college wear.

17. Long Multicolor Chikan Kurti:


An exquisite and dainty long Chikan Kurti made of chiffon material, with intricate hand-made designs embroidered all over the front. It has long sleeves with chikankari work on the sleeves and flowers up to the shoulder. The V-neck with short-standing collar seeps into a brief placket. This dress’s most spectacular and striking feature is the chikankari work of multi-colour threads. This gives a striking look to the dress.

18. Yellow Georgette Chikankari Kurta:


Get set to shine with this yellow Faux georgette chikankari kurtis. It is stylishly embroidered with “Phanda” & “Keel Kangan” stitches using white thread. The flowers and leaves are embroidered, covering the entire front portion of the dress and a single flower at the back. The neck and the sleeve are embroidered with a double line before plunging into the sea of flowers. Pair it with skinny jeans for a trendy casual look. You can also opt for trousers or white chudidhar.

19. Black Chikankari Kurti:

You will be at the peak of the zenith with this Hand Embroidered Kurti. You’re sure to be the centre of the spotlight at your workplace with this ethnic kurta. An attractive combination of black and golden coloured threads has been used for the traditional chikan stitches like – “Bakhiya”, “Phanda”, etc. The Kurti has a Band collar followed by an open placket with golden piping running down the bottom. It also has a “Jaal” pattern embroidered on the front and leaf motifs. Team it with white palazzo pants and oxidized jewellery and look smashing.

20. White and Blue Kaftan Chikan Kurta:


A perfect short, readymade chikan kurtis to pair with dark blue jeans and get all your friends to go jealous. This kurta is not usually styled but is a kaftan chikan work kurta with a V- Neck and short extended sleeves. It has a straight hemline but no slits. Exquisite flower and leaf patterns adorn the neckline. Pull string at the bust attached with lovely blue tassels. This is paired with skinny jeans and chappals to make you look stunningly attractive.

See More: Readymade Kurtis

Numerous machine-embroidered dresses are available in the market, so double-check before buying. The best way to find out is to look at the reverse of the fabric – machine embroidery will be neat and uniform, whereas hand embroidery will have loose thread and knots. The price range and the cost of the apparel generally depend on the finesse of the work, the purity of the fabric and the uncommonness of the design. Different options of chikankari work like – Bakhiya, Fanda, Shadow, Murri, keel n Kagan, Bijali, Darz, Jaali, etc., are available for you to select.

Yashita Author

About Yashita

Yashita is a senior content writer in Fashion & Lifestyle. She works involved writing blog posts and articles on diverse topics. She developed a passion for content writing, made it her full-time career. She loves writing for the online media and specializes in fashion, lifestyle and travel-related content. Yashita loves to explore the new places, and the different flavours/foods and photography are hobbies.
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