If you are someone who very much takes an interest in fashion, then it’s time to learn about Chikankari embroidery. Yes, it is a famous art form in India, but its origin is when Noor Jahan (Mughal Emperor’s wife) brought it from Persia.
Since then, people of the Indian culture have adopted this technique of making beautiful patterns on cotton and other fabric. Likely to say, it is highly favorable clothing for women and men’s fashion too. So, here we are going to inform you about the significance of Chikankari Embroidery in fashion for Indians.
See Also: Chikankari: An Indian Ethnic Wear
About Chikankari Embroidery
Chikankari embroidery is an exquisite art form that’s originally from the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. This craft is popular for its delicate and intricate needlework. Accordingly, it involves creating beautiful patterns on fabric using fine cotton threads and other embellishments.
This embroidery style has been an integral part of Indian fashion for centuries. Its timeless elegance and grace continue to inspire contemporary designers today and in the past. Furthermore, it won’t be wrong to say that Chikankari and Indian fashion goes hand in hand in modern time.
Chikankari: A Popular Art Form
The rich cultural history of Chikankari embroidery was introduced to India by the Mughals in the 16th century. Since then, this art form has become highly popular for its delicate designs and comfortable clothing.
In addition, this art form quickly gained popularity, and by the 18th century, it was the signature style of the royal courts of Awadh. Likely to say it’s even the same in the present time. Over time, the craft spread to other parts of India, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. There, the local artisans included this art form into something more extraordinary.
Read Also: Chikankari & It’s Tradition in Lucknow
Significance of Chikankari Embroidery in Fashion
The importance of Chikankari embroidery in Indian fashion is something that you may no longer await. There can be different reasons why most people take an interest in its beautiful designs. Or so, it’s a possible medium to achieve a high fashion sense along with comfort.
Here are some of the important features of Chikankari embroidery –
- One of the defining features of Chikankari embroidery is its use of white cotton fabric. This plain, unadorned fabric serves as a canvas for the intricate needlework, which is entirely the work of the hand.
- The embroidery usually features floral motifs, paisley designs, and other intricate patterns. These designs are delicately sewn into the fabric using a range of stitches such as chain stitch, back stitch, etc.
Likely to say, Chikankari embroidery is particularly renowned for its elegance and sophistication. The intricate needlework gives the fabric a three-dimensional quality, with delicate flowers and leaves appearing to float on the surface of the cloth. This ethereal quality makes Chikankari embroidery particularly well-suited for formal wear and other occasions. In general, you may try other designs such as wedding attire, sarees, and salwar kameez.
Modernization and Chikankari Embroidery
In recent years, chikankari embroidery is growing as fashion designers and textile enthusiasts have rediscovered its beauty and versatility. Many designers incorporate Chikankari into their collections, giving the art form a fresh and contemporary twist. Today, Chikankari is not only in traditional Indian garments but also in modern Western-style clothing such as shirts, dresses, etc.
The popularity of Chikankari embroidery can also be an attribute to its versatility. The embroidery is usually on various fabrics, including cotton, silk, and chiffon, making it suitable for a range of styles and occasions. Furthermore, the craft is adaptable to suit a wide range of budgets, with simpler designs being more affordable. In general, more intricate patterns are available there for more luxurious garments.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, Chikankari embroidery is also significant because of its cultural heritage. The art form has been passed down from generation to generation, with each artisan adding a unique flair to the craft. Today, Chikankari embroidery provides employment to thousands of artisans, preserving traditional skills and supporting local communities.
In conclusion, chikankari embroidery is significance of Chikankari Embroidery in fashion for Indians, and its timeless elegance and grace. Most probably, it has continued to inspire designers and fashion enthusiasts around the world. This exquisite art form not only showcases India’s cultural heritage but also provides a source of livelihood for countless artisans. Furthermore, making it an essential part of the country’s social and economic fabric.