The overview of Traditional Chikan Work
Chikankari has been the delicate and traditional embroidery practiced in Lucknow and its environs. Chikan is a unique craft involving delicate and artistic hand embroidery on a variety of textile fabrics like cotton, muslin, silk, chiffon, organdy, organza and doriya. There are 36 types of stitches used in chikan work ever since its origin. The source of the most motifs in chikankari is Mughal. Though it originated as the court craft, today it is a practiced tradition and an important commercial activity. Various designers have tried giving in new dimension to the chikan work by incorporating new techniques, styles and designs.

Timeless, Classic - that's chikan embroidery of Lucknow!
Chikan Work in Indian Fashion arena has come a long way. This living craft tradition has seen vicissitudes but remains rooted in the city of origin. Various designers have transformed chikan into ethnic dress so much so that, chikan work and fabric, traditionally a summer collection has become a winter couture as well. Chikan work is no more confined to traditional Salwaar Kameez, Kurta Pajama and Sarees, but is a delight to wear and watch in almost all kinds of western wear like funky tops, designer kurtas, enticing skirts, etc.

The Innovations and Experimentations in Chikan Work
The color selection for chikan has undergone a change tremendously. Out went the voiles and mulmuls and the pastel shades and came georgettes, tussars and silk that exhibit the Chikan Work in symphony with the traditional and western designs and styles. It's not just chikan work on fabrics like cotton, but experimentation, the order of the day, has enhanced basic chikan with more detailing- with zardozi, crystals and so on.

The refinement of taste
The various occasions on which chikan work forms the usual code has witnessed lot of changes. Now chikan is no more a casual wear but is also found in a wide variety of formal wears. Be it any kind of gathering amongst the 'young' & 'restless' and chikan is the most selective style. Now that chikan has a designer stamp and has lit up the lamp, it is been increasingly seen on college campuses and in offices too. Bright fruity color with white embroidery over singlets are very popular with collegians. Chikan work is also showcased in item that enhances your home décor. Items like tablecloth, napkins are beautified gorgeously with the use of chikan work..