Authentic Handcrafted Chikankari Kurtas by Namastay
Chikankari is the legacy embroidery of Lucknow, and that’s how the now-iconic Lucknowi Chikankari kurta came to be. Historical accounts from the early 1600s credit Mughal Empress Nur Jahan with popularising delicate white-on-white chikankari embroidery, prized for its cool feel during India’s hot summers. Over time artisans expanded the palette, added subtle shadow work, and perfected more than thirty named stitches such as murri, phanda, jaali, herringbone and pechni.
Each motif begins with a hand-drawn outline, traced onto the fabric using a washable paste. From there, artisans bring the design to life in three stages: tepchi outlines for structure, bakhiya fills for depth and shadow, and raised knots that add texture without adding weight. Depending on the intricacy, a single kurta can take anywhere from two days to two weeks to complete. And because it's all done by hand, every piece carries slight differences, as a reminder that a real person guided every stitch.
At Namastay, our kurtas begin in the homes of skilled artisans across old Lucknow. These family-run workshops let craftspeople work at their own pace while earning fair wages. Once the embroidery is done, panels come back to our Delhi studio for finishing, from cutting and lining to quality checks.
Every purchase supports over 1,000 craft workers and connects you to a growing global community that values tradition, transparency, and thoughtful design.
Choosing Your Chikankari Kurta
Occasion
For daytime celebrations like haldi or mehndi, the Boss Babe Light Blue Coord Set adds just the right touch of comfort and celebration. Heading to a reception? The Diya Black Coord Set feels dressy but never overdone. And for office meetings or weekend lunches, soft tones like blush or dove grey keep things polished and easy.
Colour
White, like the Short Kurta, stays timeless and crisp. Want something fun? The Blossom Spaghetti Short Kurtas in pastel green or pink bring spring energy. Black pairs well with silver accents, while jewel tones add warmth for evening plans.
Season
In summer, reach for breathable cottons that pack light and wear well; the Iqra is a favorite. When the weather cools, pieces like the Leila Lilac Modal Kurta offer more weight without losing flow. Add layers and you’re set for winter too.
Fabric
Classic white chikankari kurta like Nawab III Straight Chikankari Kurta feels feather light, ideal for humid days. Classic cotton offers crisp structure for daily wear. Modal cotton drapes smoothly and flatters curves, and rayon provides gentle sheen that transitions easily from day to evening. Each cloth is selected so fine knots sit flat and resist puckering after wash.
Fit
Patterns range from XS to 3XL, drafted by women who understand everyday movement. Side slits open enough for easy strides and armholes are shaped to prevent gaping.
The Namastay Promise
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Hand work only; no machine loops.
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Orders ship in 2 days with free cash on delivery across India and easy returns.
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Every sale funds wages, safe workshops and new apprenticeships in Lucknow so the craft thrives for the next generation.
Slip into a Namastay chikankari kurta and carry living heritage from a Lucknow courtyard to your own day, whether that day involves wedding music, quarterly presentations or a quiet walk through summer heat.
FAQs about Chikankari Kurtas
Why is chikankari more expensive?
Each kurta is embroidered entirely by hand. A single panel can take 12 to 40 hours depending on the density of stitches, and Namastay pays fair wages to the artisans who create that work. The price also includes premium cotton or modal fabric, a double quality check, and careful packing so the piece reaches you in perfect condition.
Which size should I choose if I am between measurements?
Chikankari looks best when it skims the body. If your bust or hip falls between two sizes choose the larger one, or opt for our free size styles that fit XS to 3XL. You can also message our fit team with your measurements for personal advice.
What is the best way to wash and store a chikankari kurta?
Turn the garment inside out, use cold water with a mild liquid detergent, rinse gently, then lay flat in shade. Avoid bleach and high heat. Store folded with tissue paper to keep the stitches relaxed and prevent colour transfer.
