Indian Art Forms
Chikankari Embroidery in Delhi — Handcrafted Lucknowi Elegance
Chikankari — Lucknow's legendary white-on-white thread embroidery — is the epitome of understated elegance. At Le Wraps, we source the finest chikankari work from Lucknow's master artisans and incorporate it into bespoke garments that marry this delicate art form with contemporary design.
Origin
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh (Mughal era, 17th century)
The Heritage of Chikankari
Chikankari is believed to have been introduced to India by Nur Jahan, wife of Mughal Emperor Jahangir, in the 17th century. This delicate hand embroidery from Lucknow involves 36 different stitches — including taipchi, bakhia, phanda, and jaali — each creating distinct textures and patterns. Traditionally done in white thread on white muslin, modern chikankari has expanded to include colored threads on various fabrics. The art form was granted a GI (Geographical Indication) tag to protect its authenticity. At Le Wraps, we source directly from heritage chikankari workshops in Lucknow, ensuring every piece is authentic hand-embroidered work — not machine replicas.
The Technique Behind Chikankari
Chikankari involves transferring a design (chapa) onto fabric using block printing, then hand-embroidering over the printed pattern. The embroiderer works with a single needle and fine cotton or silk thread, creating stitches so fine they appear woven into the fabric. The finished piece is washed to remove the block print, leaving only the exquisite embroidery. Key stitches include taipchi (running stitch), bakhia (shadow work), phanda (grain-like knots), jaali (net-like open work), and murri (rice-grain stitch).
Chikankari Garments at Le Wraps
Chikankari Anarkali Suits — floor-length elegance
Chikankari Kurta Sets for daily luxury
Chikankari Sarees with matching blouses
Chikankari Lehengas for summer weddings
Chikankari Nehru Jackets for men
Fusion chikankari — crop tops, palazzos, gowns
Chikankari at Le Wraps — Our Expertise
Le Wraps has cultivated relationships with Lucknow's finest chikankari artisans over three decades. We source fabric that's been hand-embroidered over 2-8 weeks by skilled karigars, then transform it into bespoke garments tailored to your measurements. Nidhi Sachdev often combines chikankari with other techniques — mukaish (metallic embroidery) and kamdani (flat metallic work) — to create rich, layered textures that elevate the art form.
Chikankari Pricing
Custom chikankari outfits start from ₹15,000 for kurta sets and ₹40,000 for anarkalis. Bridal chikankari lehengas with heavy jaali and mukaish work range from ₹1,00,000 to ₹4,00,000.
Frequently Asked Questions — Chikankari
How can I tell real chikankari from machine-made?
Authentic chikankari has slight irregularities, visible knots on the reverse, and a soft hand feel. Machine work is perfectly uniform and feels stiffer. All Le Wraps chikankari is certified handmade.
Can chikankari be done in colors other than white?
Yes — modern chikankari includes pastel threads, contrast embroidery, and even multi-color work. We offer traditional white-on-white and contemporary colored options.
Is chikankari suitable for bridal wear?
Absolutely — chikankari bridal lehengas (especially with mukaish and kamdani additions) are stunning for summer and destination weddings.
How do I care for chikankari garments?
Hand wash in cold water with mild detergent, or dry clean. Iron on reverse side while slightly damp. Store flat to prevent stretching.
Commission Chikankari
Order Custom Chikankari Work
Address: C-58, Friends Colony East, New Delhi — 110065
Phone: +91 98113 07891
By Appointment Only