How to Style White Chikankari Kurta?

Understanding Chikankari Embroidery

History and Origin of Chikankari:
The art of chikankari is believed to have been introduced during the Mughal era, with Nur Jahan, the wife of Emperor Jahangir credited with popularizing it. The art flourished in Lucknow as time passed, and earned global recognition for its sophistication. It was originally practiced on muslin cloth and has now expanded to various fabrics like georgette, chiffon, cotton and silk. 

Types of Stitches and Patterns:

What makes chikankari beautiful is the variety of stitches involved, each of which plays a vital part in creating the intricate designs in this unique kurti for women: 

• Tepchi: A simple running stitch that forms the basic outline of the design. 

• Bakhiya: Also known as shadow work, the threads are embroidered on the reverse side for a subtle effect. 

• Phanda: The knotted stitch that looks like tiny dots, which are often used for floral patterns. 

• Jaali: This net-like design is created by pulling the threads apart to form delicate lattices. 

• Keel Kangan: Petal or bud-like stitches for floral details. 

Patterns on the white chikankari kurti often showcase designs inspired by nature, often influenced by the Mughal era. 

Styling for Different Occasions

Since it is a versatile outfit, the question of ‘what to wear with white chikan kurti?’ is very common. If you too have been asking yourself this, then read on to find out how you can style the white chikankari kurta for different occasions!

Casual Day Outings: 

• Pairing Options: You can pair your white chikankari kurti with jeans: lightweight or dark denim, to bring out the intricate embroidery. You can also wear denim shorts for a relaxed, chic look. 

• Footwear: Opt for a comfortable pair of sandals, espadrilles, or trendy sneakers for a casual vibe. 

• Accessories: Keep it minimal; stud earrings, a delicate chain and a compact crossbody bag will make for the perfect casual look!

Office Wear: 

• Pairing Options: Match the kurta with a pair of well-fitted formal trousers. Go for neutral tones: beige, black or navy, for a polished look. 

• Layering: Add a structured blazer or a soft cardigan for a professional touch. 

• Footwear: Closed-toe flats or low-heeled pumps will offer comfort and sophistication. 
  
  

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Festive and Traditional Events: 

• Pairing Options: Elevate the kurta with lehenga, or a heavily embroidered sharara. You could even wear your white chikan kurti with a palazzo and experiment with vibrant or pastel-colored dupattas. 

• Jewelry: Opt for statement pieces: jhumkas, chokers or maang teekas will enhance your festive look. 

• Footwear: Go for embellished sandals, kolhapuris or heels to complete the traditional attire. 

Formal Gatherings: 

• Styling Options: Pair the chikankari kurta with tailored cotton pants, in a contrasting shade. 

• Accessories: Incorporate elegant clutches, dainty necklaces or pearl earrings.

• Footwear: Stilettos, kitten heels or sleek formal flats add a sophisticated touch to the outfit. 

Seasonal Styling Tips

With every season calling for new styles, exactly how to wear a chikankari kurti as the weather changes? Read on for some of the best seasonal styling tips! 

Summer: 

• Fabrics: Opt for breathable cotton or linen chikankari kurtas. It will help you stay cool and comfortable. 

• Pairing: Style it with pastel shorts, capris or ankle-length cotton trousers. 

• Accessories: Add straw hats, sunglasses or delicate bracelets for a light, airy vibe. 

Monsoon: 

• Material: Choose fabrics that will dry quickly; georgette or poly-cotton blends are the ideal choice. 

• Pairing: Wear water-resistant leggings or cropped pants. 

• Footwear: Wear practical footwear: jelly sandals or rubber sandals will be the best choices. 

• Accessories: A bright umbrella or raincoat will be a functional, stylish addition.

Winter: 

• Layering: Pair your kurta with a woolen shawl, knitted jacket or leather coats; they will give you added warmth. 

• Pairing Options: You can wear it with skinny jeans, warm leggings or fleece-lined trousers. 

• Footwear: Ankle boots or knee-high boots to create a cozy, chic winter ensemble. 

• Accessories: Use warm-toned scarves, statement belts and metallic jewelry to complement the cold season. 

Accessories: What to Wear with White Chikan Kurti?

Jewelry: 

• Traditional Pieces: Pair your white chikankari kurta with classic kundan, meenakari or polki sets for a regal look during weddings and festive occasions. If you wear gold or silver-toned jhumkas, chandbalis, and anklets, it will enhance the ethnic appeal. 

• Contemporary Pieces: Minimalistic pendants, geometric earrings or studded chokers will give your entire outfit that modern touch. Add stackable rings and sleek bracelets, and add elegance to a formal outfit. 

• Layering Techniques: Create a statement by layering the necklaces of varying lengths. You can pair a short pearl necklace with a longer chain. Layer bracelets with mixed materials; metal cuffs and beaded strands for a chic effect. 

Footwear: 

• For Casual Outings: Flat sandals, espadrilles or canvas sneakers are great if you want to look effortlessly chic. 

• For Festive Events: Embellished juttis, kolhapuris or strappy heels will give your outfit an ethnic, stylish finish. 

• For Formal Occasions: Closed-toe block heels, stilettos or pointed flats will work well; try neutral or metallic tones for a touch of elegance. 

• Comfort vs Style: Look for padded insoles or wedges. These will give you support, and help retain that perfect, fashionable appearance. Avoid overly tight footwear; it may strain and cause you pain if you wear it for a long time. 

Bags and Purses: 

• Casual Looks: Crossbody sling bags or medium-sized totes in earthy tones or soft pastels will match the simplicity of the chikankari kurta. 

• Festive Wear: Use a clutch or potli bag with embroidery, beads or sequins that match your outfit’s ethnic feel. 

• Formal Settings: Structured handbags, or sleek clutches made of leather or satin add a touch of sophistication. 

• Color Coordination: Opt for shades that will contrast, or slightly match the kurta. An embellished design will highlight the festive look of your outfit, while a plain, muted bag will give off minimalistic vibes. 

DIY Customization Techniques

Embroidery: 

• Adding Personal Touches: If you want to personalize your white chikankari kurti, use embroidery hoops to embellish the plain areas of the kurta with colorful floral or geometric patterns. Choose contrasting or complementary thread colors and elevate the design. 

• Thread Selection: High-quality cotton, silk or metallic threads will give the design the kind of effect you want. Go for bright colors; mustard, teal or maroon for vibrancy, or soft pastels for a simpler look. 

Dyeing and Painting: 

• Color Accents: Add ombre effects or block-print patterns with fabric-safe dyes. You could dye the hem or sleeves for a dual-toned kurta. 

• Techniques: You can tie-dye if you want to give the kurta a playful twist, or use stencils for a precise design. If you have a steady hand, you could even paint the motifs or any abstract patterns using fabric paints. 

• Safety Precautions: Always wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated space. Before you apply the paint or use the dye, test it on a small swatch of fabric, to get a feel of how the final piece will look. 

Upcycling: 

• Transforming Old Kurtas: Repurpose a worn-out chikankari kurta by cutting and converting it into a crop top, skirt or scarf. You can cut the embroidered section, and stitch them into new clothes. 

• Modernizing Traditional Designs: Attach lace borders, ruffles or sequins; this will give the generally traditional kurta a new edge. Mix and match different kinds of fabrics, such as denim or silk for a fusion style. 

Care and Maintenance: 

Washing and Drying: 

• Preserving the Embroidery: This is a crucial part of chikankari maintenance, as the embroidery is what gives the outfit its beauty. Always handwash the kurta in cold water with mild detergents. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach as it might destroy the threading. 

• Drying Techniques: Air-dry the kurta in the shade; this will help prevent discoloration. Lay it flat or else the embroidery may get stretched. 

Storage: 

• Prevent Damage: Fold it neatly and place the kurta in cotton bags or with tissue paper to prevent dust and moths. Avoid hanging your chikankari kurta, as it might distort the fabric. 

• Humidity Control: Use silica gel packets or neem leaves to keep moisture and insects away. 

Repairing:

• Minor Damages: Fix the loose threads with a fine needle and a thread with a matching color. For small tears, use fabric glue or iron-on patches to fix the damage.

• Professional Touch-Ups: For significant repairs, such as for embroidery, seek help from the experts: artisans, or tailors who know chikankari work. 

Conclusion

The charm of a white chikankari kurta lies in its ability to adapt to different occasions; you can style it for a casual outing, for office, or even for festive events and formal occasions! The neutral color, and intricate craftsmanship means that there are endless possibilities on how to style a white chikankari kurta. 

Don’t be afraid to explore your creativity; pair your white chikankari kurta with different types of accessories, and experiment with DIY or style a fusion outfit. 

The white chikankari kurta is a symbol of cultural heritage that easily lets you express your individuality in fashion. 

At Suvidha Fashion, you will find an extensive collection of chikankari kurtas, whether in white or the color you want! You can choose from a wide range of kurtas, their perfect pairings and even accessories, and style it the way you want. Suvidha Fashion gives you so many choices that you will wonder, ‘What to wear with a white chikan kurti?’