The Chikankari Edit: Glorious Ways to Wear Lucknow's Traditional Embroidery
This delicate embroidery can be perfected in a myriad of iterations, whether you wear a summer-ready kurta, a little white dress or a pristine white lehenga. Here are 8 ways you can embrace the understated-yet-luxurious craft for your big day. Photographer: Irina Usova. Fashion editor: Shaurya Athley
ISTYLE TIP: Are you a bride that loves her blazers? Suit up while keeping in touch with traditional with a Chikankari embroidered suit. A high-low hem can add a touch of femininity to the look.
STYLE TIP: Bring on the bling! Opt for a sequinned Chikankari Anarkali with gota borders to a royal sangeet ceremony.
STYLE TIP: Who said Chikankari just had to be white? We say break out and go full colour; chikankari on colour is a daring move we approve of.
STYLE TIP: Chic with a side of dressy, this Chikankari dress is on-trend and the perfect switch from a casual day to a glam night look!
STYLE TIP: Want to skip the lehenga? Go for a hand-embroidered Chikankari sari instead for understated elegance at your wedding ceremony. Contrast it with beautiful, Firoza gemstones in your jewellery.
STYLE TIP: Want to make a statement but still keep it subtle? Add a pop of colour to your Chikankari ensemble by pairing it with a statement accessory like this bold tribal neckpiece.
STYLE TIP: Perfect that all-white ensemble by adding some diamond jewellery for a little bit of magic—the perfect accompaniment to a pure white Chikankari outfit.
STYLE TIP: If you wish to steer away from stark whites, a combination of off-white and gold is a winner. The rustic beauty of gold sequin work on an eggshell palette makes any Chikankari outfit a definite stunner.
Team Credits: Photographer: Irina Usova; Hair and makeup: Aakriti Kochar; Model: Ninja Singh at Ninja Model Management; Fashion editor: Shaurya Athley; Assistant: Sanah Changkakoti ; Location: Courtesy Social Vasant Kunj (@socialoffline)