Hello, style mavens! At Hathkatti, we celebrate the delicate artistry of Chikankari, not just on special occasions, but in your daily life. Our tops, featuring that signature minimal yet fine embroidery, are designed to be the ultimate versatile staple in your wardrobe.
How do you take a piece rooted in Lucknow's heritage and make it feel perfectly "you" and perfectly now? It's all about how you style it!
Forget saving your Chikankari for just Indian wear. Here are five effortless, chic ways to style your Hathkatti Chikankari top for everything from the boardroom to brunch.
1. The Polished Professional: Workwear Chic
Chikankari’s fine texture adds a sophisticated softness that balances out sharp tailoring, making it ideal for the office.
- The Look: Pair a crisp, white or pastel-toned Chikankari top with well-fitted trousers (black, navy, or deep charcoal).
- Layering: Tuck the top in, or choose one with a structured fit. Add a structured blazer or a longline vest in a contrasting solid color.
- Accessories: Minimal gold or silver stud earrings, a sleek watch, and sharp leather loafers or pointed flats.
- Why it Works: This look combines the artistic value of handwork with the authority of tailored pieces. It's professional, yet distinctly elegant.
2. The Weekend Warrior: Effortless Casual
This is the easiest way to incorporate a Chikankari top into your weekend rotation—high on comfort, high on style.
- The Look: Combine an oversized or relaxed-fit Chikankari top with your favorite distressed denim jeans or classic white trousers.
- The Twist: Roll up the sleeves for a relaxed vibe. Opt for a brightly colored stole or scarf (like our Hathkatti scarfs!) tied loosely around your neck or handbag for a pop of color.
- Accessories: Comfortable sneakers, canvas espadrilles, or strappy sandals. Finish with a large tote bag and oversized sunglasses.
- Why it Works: The relaxed texture of the embroidery softens the ruggedness of the denim, creating a perfect balance.
3. Bohemian Rhapsody: Travel & Festival Style
Embrace the flow and texture of the Chikankari craft with an airy, bohemian aesthetic.
- The Look: Wear your top over a pair of wide-legged linen pants or a sweeping midi skirt in a complementary earth tone (terracotta, olive green, or beige).
- Details: Look for tops with scalloped edges or interesting sleeve details.
- Accessories: Layered necklaces, wooden bangles, and a beaded clutch or rattan bag. Finish with platform wedges or flat embellished sandals.
- Why it Works: The hand-stitched detailing aligns beautifully with the free-spirited, craft-focused nature of boho style.
4. Date Night Ready: Elevated Evening Look
Yes, your Chikankari top can do evening wear! It’s all about luxurious pairings and strategic accessories.
- The Look: Pair a shorter Chikankari top with a sleek, high-waisted satin or silk skirt (pencil or A-line). Choose tops in darker hues like black, deep maroon, or midnight blue for an evening feel.
- The Finish: A pair of killer heels (metallic or velvet) and a sophisticated clutch.
- Accessories: Focus on one statement piece, like bold gold earrings or a cuff bracelet, to highlight the neck/wrist area without competing with the embroidery.
- Why it Works: The sheen of the satin or silk elevates the detailed texture of the embroidery, creating a rich, multi-dimensional outfit.
5. Cool Co-ord Pairing: Modern Monochromes
For a look that feels instantly pulled-together and high-fashion, pair your top with a bottom in the same color and fabric family.
- The Look: Combine a Hathkatti top with our matching Chikankari Coord Set pants or trousers for a seamless, head-to-toe look.
- Styling: This monochromatic dressing trick makes you look taller and more polished.
- Accessories: Use your accessories for contrast—think a black belt cinching the waist or bright pumps.
- Why it Works: It showcases the fine embroidery as an all-over texture rather than just a pattern, looking intentional and incredibly chic.