Chikankari Kurta Styling For Every Kind Of Girl This Summer

Chikankari is a traditional embroidery technique that was originally developed in Lucknow and is rooted in the rich history of Indian textile art. It involves stitching delicate floral or geometric motifs on lightweight fabrics such as cotton, chiffon, georgette, or muslin. Traditionally done on white fabrics, the evolution of fashion through new techniques has introduced coloured fabrics and vivid contrast embroidery Chikankari work. Clothing made using Chikankari fabrics is recommended for the summer as it is breathable, while the intricate embroidery and sheer appearance add to the elegance and grace.

In 2024, Chikankari kurtas specifically are a must-have if you love creating ‘desi girl’ coded outfits and want to embrace traditional craftsmanship or support local artisans. The kurtas are also timeless and have a regal ‘old money’ appeal as muslin was once reserved for the royal family. Even if you prefer Western styles or prefer wearing fusion looks, you can depend on these trusty kurtas to add a touch of cultural significance and sophistication to any look. Keep reading as this guide lists the best ways to style this wardrobe staple and how you can pick the best look for different occasions.

1. Classic Beauty

Leaning into the minimal trend, you should definitely not sleep on the most classic way to style a Chikankari kurta – with matching bottoms and (faux) leather sandals. Taking a cue from Kriti Sanon, you can match the kurta with the same colour or pick bottoms with similar thread work. To make your life easier, you can simply opt for the House of Chikankari Anarkali kurta set, which has high ratings and is made using responsible production practices. Pair it with the organic and handmade Kolhapuri sandals by Preet Kaur, which can also be used to style many different ethnic looks.

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2. Cool Girl

Whether you’re travelling or headed out for a casual event, sheer Chikankari kurtas with denim jeans will help you achieve a cool and easy-going look while looking elegant. If you wish, the ADA georgette Lucknowni Chikan kurta will help you recreate this sheer look seen on Mrunal Thakur, which can also be dressed up when needed by adding jewellery and heels. The kurta also comes with a matching slip if you wish to add a layer. Pair it with the trendy saddle bag – also known as the moon bag – by Miraggio that is loved by customers for its quality and design.

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3. Desi Divas

Embrace your playful side and let your outfit reflect the vibrant summer colour palette with colourful dupattas. Chikankari kurtas provide the perfect blank canvas for this splash of colour and can be used to create multiple looks with not only different dupattas but also shrugs, jackets, scarves, and shawls. We recommend the Paramount Chikan’s embroidered kurta as it is handcrafted by artisans and this highly-rated dupatta to recreate Sara Ali Khan’s look.

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4. Queens Of Versatility

If you have been amused by the capsule wardrobes or simply love versatile clothing items for travel, don’t sleep on these elegant and stylish palazzos. You can pair them with short or long kurtas, blouses, camisoles, and even jackets. Pair the solid palazzo with the Seva Chikan kurta to match Khushi Kapoor’s outfit. The kurta is handcrafted and made of light and airy georgette material for the summer and comes with an inner slip for when you need coverage.

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5. Miss Always Feels Cold

While Chikankari kurtas are the top choice for the summer, you can style them for transition weather and colder temperatures while travelling by layering them with a denim jacket. Recreate this outfit seen on Prajakta Kohli with the highly-rated ADA chikan kurta and MIXT by Nykaa Fashion denim jacket. Complete this indo-western outfit with jhumkas for an elegant and stylish look.

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6. Dream Girl

When it comes to ethnic wear, you cannot go wrong with statement earrings and this ensemble worn by Anushka Sharma proves just that. From the 60s to 2023, Bollywood keeps banking on the romantic allure of Jhumka Gira Re and so should you. Opt for the Beatitude chikan kurta that features similar heavy embroidery as Anushka. For the earrings, we recommend the top-rated Laida kundan studded Chandbalis as reviewers vouch for its great design, quality, and value for money.

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7. Boho Babes

The aesthetic appeal of oxidised jewellery is unmatched as the darkened metal highlights the delicate details of the jewellery and has an antique look. We love this playful choker seen on Rubika Dalik as it adds a colourful touch to the classic oxidised necklace. The Moedbuille choker beautifully balances this blend of dark metal and colour with the meenakari work choker. The turquoise kurta set will help you match Rubina’s outfit for a polished look.

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8. Can’t Do Without Colour

If you want the simple appearance of timeless white Lucknowi Chikankari sets but want to add your signature pop of colour, Tina Dutta is here to show how you can do that effortlessly. We recommend these highly-rated juttis and a potli bag in the trendy fuchsia colour. This is also the perfect time to reuse all accessories you bought as a part of past trends – from Barbie Pink to ‘Laddoo Peela’.

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Chikankari embroidery adds an elegant and sophisticated look and is a must-have for the summer due to the lightweight and airy fabric. They can be dressed up or down for every occasion – formal or casual – and can be used to create many different Western, fusion, and ethnic outfits.