One of the most famous varieties of sarees in India is the Chikankari sarees of Lucknow. The word ‘Chikan’ means embroidery. As per many tales, the technique of this work was said to have been introduced by Noor Jahan, the wife of Jahangir. The original Chikankari sarees were done on white fabrics with a white thread. It is a delicate form of embroidery that involves a number of stitching patterns like the backstitch, hemstitch, chain stitch etc. One of the most famous techniques is the shadow stitch, where the work is done on the reverse side of the fabric to be visible on the right side. This article will explore more about these delicate, dreamy sarees and explore some of the best designs.
Importance of Chikankari Sarees:
Chikankari Sarees are a popular choice in the hot weather conditions of India. The use of lightweight fabrics dyed in light pastel colours makes them ideal for everyday wear. These sarees have gained international fame due to the intricacy of embroidery and the level of detail displayed. They are also the first choice among women who like to wear something elegant and graceful for an occasion.
Features Of Chikankari Sarees:
Some of the noteworthy features of these sarees are as follows:
- Chikankari sarees usually come in light colours like pastel green, pink, blue, white etc.,
- The process of embroidery comes in two stages – Printing and Stitching.
- The pattern is the first block printed on the fabric, followed by the thread work on it.
- The common motifs are flowers, creepers, stems, leaves etc.,
- Contemporary sarees come with a sequin, bead and mirror work to elevate the beauty.
- Chikankari saris are translucent, which is what allows the delicate thread work to be visible.
Fabrics Used In Chikankari Sarees:
The traditional Chikankari sarees were made with Muslin cloths. The basic rule for Chikan work is that the fabric must be durable enough to support the work yet light enough for the needle to pass through. Too thin or too thick fabrics will not support this type of stitch technique. In the modern days, the expensive muslin is replaced by economic alternatives like cotton, silk, organza, chiffon etc.; These fabrics render the originality of the sarees with their lightweight texture and durability.
Preferred Age Group For Chikankari Sarees:
While there is no defined age limit for these sarees, they are quite popular with mid-age women. This is mainly for the elegance and beauty that these sarees offer when worn. Chikankari saris add a dainty look and are perfect for work wear. Embellished sarees can be worn for occasional wear, especially when you choose a subtle look. The white Chikan work sarees are quite popular with elderly women who prefer wearing soothing shades to look elegant and decent.
Beautiful Collection of Chikankari Sarees With Pictures:
Following are the top 15 chikankari sarees with images that you would surely love.
1. Chikankari Cotton Saree:
This off-white Chikankari saree with Gota work is a perfect choice for day parties. You can now neutralise the harsh rays of the sun with this pleasant mauve shade of the saree. The intricate white embroidery with hints of golden Gota Patti makes it one of the best designs in cotton varieties of Chikan work sarees.
- Design: Off-White Chikankari Cotton Saree With Gota Patti Work
- Material: Cotton
- Preferred Occasions: Ethnic and Occasional Wear
- Suitable Body Shape: Suits All Women
2. Chiffon Chikankari Saree:
This stunning piece is a perfect amalgamation of tradition and style. The bright combination of pink and orange makes it one of the perfect choices for day parties. The unique style of embroidery renders a beautiful look to the saree. It is best paired with a simple blouse and matching accessories to steal the show!
- Design: Pink and Orange Chikankari Chiffon Saree
- Material: Chiffon
- Preferred Occasions: Ethnic and Occasional Wear
- Suitable Body Shape: Suits Slim and tall Women
3. Pink Chikankari Saree:
This pretty pink Chikankari sari looks like a dream! It is delicate looking and gives a fresh look, especially during summers. The saree comes with an all-over work comprising of floral and geometric motifs. It is best paired with a white cotton blouse and peal accessories to look as beautiful as a pink pansy!
- Design: Pink Chikankari Saree With All Over Work
- Material: Chiffon
- Preferred Occasions: Ethnic and Occasional Wear
- Suitable Body Shape: Suits Slim and tall Women
4. Pink Chikankari Saree With Mirror Work:
This is one of the most beautiful Chikankari designs, which is worth every penny. The dark pink coloured embroidery complements the light pink of the body. The saree is embellished with real mirrors to add a touch of sparkle to the saree. It is best paired with a contrast coloured blouse and silver accessories to shine like a star!
- Design: Pink Chikankari Saree With Mirror Work
- Material: Chiffon
- Preferred Occasions: Ethnic and Occasional Wear
- Suitable Body Shape: Suits Slim and Tall Women
5. Onion Colored Chikankari Saree:
This lovely onion pink coloured saree is a treat to sore eyes! The saree comes with a heavy Palla and cross-embroidery in the pleats for a unique look. It is best matched with a white coloured cotton blouse to elevate the look of the saree. Try matching the drape with pearl accessories to look like a goddess!
- Design: Onion Colored Chikan Work Saree
- Material: Georgette
- Preferred Occasions: Ethnic and Occasional Wear
- Suitable Body Shape: Suits all Women
6. Bright Blue Chikankari Saree With Net Border:
This is one of the unique pieces in the Chikankari variety. The bright and regal looking blue coloured saree is embellished with a heavy Palla and random floral motifs on the body. The highlight feature of the saree is the net border which gives a modern look to the saree. Best matched with a white-coloured blouse.
- Design: Bright Blue Chikankari Saree
- Material: Georgette
- Preferred Occasions: Ethnic and Occasional Wear
- Suitable Body Shape: Suits all Women
7. Sea Green Georgette Chikankari Sari:
This sea green coloured georgette saree has an eye-soothing look. The mono-coloured chikankari work all over the saree, mainly the border and pallu look unique and traditional. The same coloured blouse looks apt with this georgette texture.
- Design: Sea Green Georgette Chikankari Saree
- Material: Georgette
- Preferred Occasions: Ethnic Wear
- Suitable Body Shape: Ideal For Slim Women
8. Yellow Embroidery Lucknow Chikankari Saree:
This piece of chikankari has white embroidery that works all over this yellow saree. The white designs make the Chikan works look prominent. The embroidery work consists of Kalka designs that maintain the traditional outlook.
- Design: Bright Yellow Cotton Chikankari Saree
- Material: Cotton
- Preferred Occasions: Ethnic and Daily Wear
- Suitable Body Shape: Suits All Women
9. White Georgette Chikankari Saree:
Mix and match of traditional and modern style are reflected in this piece of white georgette saree. Simplicity is foremost the main key feature of this white georgette chikankari saree. Kalka designs throughout the pallu with white, and some touch of brown are done.
- Saree Design: White Georgette Chikankari Saree
- Material: Georgette
- Preferred Occasions: Ethnic and Daily Wear
- Suitable Body Shape: Suits All Women
10. Peach Chikankari Saree:
Peach coloured outfits are widely used. In this saree, colour is the main attraction and if you like to go for intricate designs, choose this chikankari saree without any doubt. Self-designed embroidery works are done in this piece. The intricate design is the main attraction of this saree with prominent Chikan work.
- Design: Pleasant Peach Chikankari Cotton Sari
- Material: Cotton
- Preferred Occasions: Ethnic and Daily Wear
- Suitable Body Shape: Suits All Women
See More: Kosa Silk Sarees Images
11. Reddish Rust Hand Embroidered Lucknow Chikankari Saree:
In this piece of saree, circular patterned designs are done throughout the piece in periodic forms in white colours. This enhances the Chikan works done on this saree. This reddish rust saree is a hand-designed embroidery Chikan saree. To enhance the outlook of the pallu, intricate designs with floral and Kalka works are done. You can opt for a contrasting blouse with this saree.
- Design: Red Chikankari Saree With Rich Pallu
- Material: Georgette
- Preferred Occasions: Ethnic and Daily Wear
- Suitable Body Shape: Suits All Women
12. White Designer Chikankari Saree:
Chikan works are also done in designer saree to give a traditional touch to it. The black and white combination saree always look awesome and provide a charming look. Intricate works are done all over this designer saree with white Chikan works on it. This saree is paired up with a velvet black blouse with white embroidery designs on it. This designer chikankari is pleasing to the eye and makes you look graceful.
- Design: White Chikankari Saree With Black Border
- Material: Georgette
- Preferred Occasions: Ethnic and Occasional Wear
- Suitable Body Shape: Suits All Women
See More: Tussar Sarees
13. Pista Green Designer Hand Embroidered Chikankari Saree:
Pista green coloured saree with Lucknow Chikan works are done on it. The white works magnify its beauty. It looks simply without any intricate designs. It just consists of simple hand embroidery with a transparent texture.
- Design: Soothing Mint Green Chikankari Cotton Saree
- Material: Cotton
- Preferred Occasions: Ethnic and Occasional wear
- Suitable Body Shape: Suits All Women
14. Light Sky Blue Faux Georgette Chikankari Saree:
This light-weighted sari has Chikan works in blue and white hues. A matching blouse is the speciality of this saree. This light-blue faux georgette can be draped in parties if you like to maintain a traditional look.
- Design: Sky Blue Chikankari Sari With All Over Work
- Material: Cotton
- Preferred Occasions: Ethnic and Occasional Wear
- Suitable Body Shape: Suits All Women
See More: Crepe Sarees Collections
15. Light Peach Colored Netted Designer Chikankari Saree:
Off-white floral Chikan works are done along the border of this saree. This net texture with laced border and floral works makes it looks different. White dotted designs are throughout this piece. Designer simple off white blouse is appropriate for this outlook to enhance your beauty.
- Design: Peach Color Chikankari Work Saree
- Material: Cotton
- Preferred Occasions: Ethnic and Occasional Wear
- Suitable Body Shape: Suits All Women
Suitable Blouse For Chikankari Sarees:
Most Chikankari Sarees come with an attached blouse piece with embroidery on the neck and sleeves. However, if you wish to try a different look, you can also try opting for designs like:
- Sleeveless Cotton Blouse
- Mirror Work Blouses
- Velvet Fabric Blouses
- Silver Blouse With Sequins
- A Plain White Blouse With thread Work
How To Style Chikankari Sarees?
Chikankari Sarees are synonymous with simplicity and minimalism. When you wear a Chikan work saree, follow these simple styling tips to look graceful:
- If you are planning for work wear, opt for a simple cotton blouse and beaded jewellery.
- As they come in light colours, pick subtle jewellery like pearls, corals and white stones.
- A simple bun or a French braid can make you look like a diva.
- For a perfect summer look, choose a simple embroidered white blouse, which can match almost all of your Chikankari sarees.
- A branded white coloured bag is the perfect partner for your Chikan work sarees.
Aren’t these Chikankari sarees lovely? Not only do they offer the perfect drape for your body, but they also make you feel comfortable. Especially for the balmy Indian summers, Chikankari saris are the best bet! The light pastel hues of these sarees and the airy fabrics make them the ideal choice for humid climates. You will no more have a chance to make excuses about wearing sarees again! So, ladies, we hope you will keep our traditions alive by choosing authentic handmade sarees and not fall for the cheap machine-made ones!