A chikankari kurti is more than an outfit. It is a piece of hand embroidery you can wear to work, to dinner or to a celebration. This guide helps you choose the right kurti for your body, climate and occasion, and shows how to style it. You can browse the full range in our chikankari kurtis collection.
Start with the fabric
- Cotton: crisp and breathable, best for hot days and travel.
- Modal cotton: smooth, cool and fluid, good for everyday wear.
- Rayon: light and silky with a flowing drape, ideal for work and dinners.
- Chanderi silk: lustrous and light, made for weddings and festive occasions.
Our fabric guide compares them in detail with real styles.
Choose the length
- Short kurti (hip length): easiest to pair with jeans, trousers and skirts. See the Inaya short kurti guide.
- Long kurta (knee length or longer): elegant with palazzos, pants or churidars, and good for formal occasions.
- Straight or A-line: straight cuts look sleek, while A-line cuts add movement.
Check the fit
Hand-embroidered fabric has little stretch, so a little ease through the bust and shoulders gives the best drape. Compare the product size chart with a kurti you already own, and email info@lucknowthreads.com if you are unsure. Many styles are available from size 36 up to 52, depending on the style and colour.
Pick a colour
White and ivory chikankari goes with everything and shows the stitching best. Pastels suit daytime and spring, while jewel tones and deeper shades suit evenings. For help, read what colours look good on brown skin.
How to style a chikankari kurti
- Work: pair a short kurti with tailored trousers and loafers. See how to style chikankari for work.
- Casual: wear it with blue jeans and sneakers or juttis. See kurta with jeans.
- Festive: add a chiffon dupatta, gold jhumkas and a potli bag. Browse our dupattas and pants.
- Cooler weather: layer a blazer or a long coat over the kurti.
Caring for your kurti
Hand wash in cold water with a mild detergent, do not wring, and dry flat in the shade. See our hand wash guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best fabric for a chikankari kurti in summer?
Cotton is the best choice for hot, humid weather because of its breathability.
What is the best kurti for work?
A rayon or modal cotton short kurti in a solid colour pairs well with tailored trousers.
Do you ship across Canada?
Yes. We ship from Toronto across Canada. Orders ship within 24β48 hours, and delivery takes 1β3 business days in Toronto and the GTA and 3β10 business days elsewhere in Canada.