From Couture to Kaftan — is relaxed clothing changing fashion aesthetics?
Fashion is dynamic—no wonder the styling trends are forever changing! While there was an era where corset dresses and buttoned trousers helped women ace their fashion game, now is the time that relaxed clothing is making a name for itself. It is an era of flaunting relaxed co-ord sets, cotton dresses, and kaftans.
Popular fashion magazines are filled with style tips to transform a stylish kaftan dress into couture wear for your next big party. On the other hand, while cotton kurtis and chikankari pants were once considered daily wear, they are now taking over the mainstream role in every woman’s wardrobe.
From Jennifer Aniston to Kareena Kapoor Khan, we have seen them rocking relaxed clothing on the streets and at dinner parties. Are you wondering what is making women go from bling to bliss?
Well, here’s why!
When done correctly, relaxed clothing looks fantastic. It shows that you're easygoing, humble, up for a good time, and natural in your personality and approach to life. The fabrics and styles of the clothing allow you to move freely, the colours do not stand out, and the details are minimal and elegant.
How can you style chikankari as couture?
If you’re convinced that comfort is the way to go in 2022, we introduce you to the fancy world of chikankari. Chikankari kurtis are no longer the long white kurtis we saw in Bollywood back in the 90s. In fact, it has come a long way with dresses, pants, embroidered shirts, kimonos, kaftans, and whatnot!
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Chikankari kurta as a dress
Chikankari works brilliantly as a dress, emphasising the figure. The stunning Chikankari Long Kurti is made of a traditional ethnic fabric called "Chanderi," which is known for its sheer texture, lightweight, and luxurious quality. Simply wear an anarkali or long kurti with stilettos and go for dewy makeup and a sling bag for a perfect brunch look.
Wear the anarkali with a churidar or pants and a pair of mules for a more modern look on one of those ethnic office days. Carry a laptop bag that complements your mules, and tie your hair in a neat bun.
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Kimono for a boho look
If you like the boho look, try pairing your kimono with a fitted or straight dress to create a contrast of volume. If you want to slim down, wear a plain, skin-skimming dress underneath your kimono and wear it open. With a suede cross-body bag and strappy sandals, you'll be ready for anything!
Pair culotte trousers with a Chikankari kimono for a chic look! Go for wide-legged trousers to appear taller. Wear a cami underneath and style it with oxidised jewellery and a tote bag.
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Kaftans for the beach
Use it as a coverup on the beach to instantly elevate your beachwear. A kaftan, made of a light, breezy fabric, is an excellent choice for accessorising your swimsuit or bikini. Not to mention that it protects you from the sun's UV rays.
A stylish kaftan dress will save you from buying expensive beachwear that you might not ever wear again. The hand-embroidered chikankari shirts for women are also a great option for coverups.
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Kurta sets as formal wear
Kurtis are a godsend for women who want to look professional at work but don't want to be dressed in western attire all the time. A chikankari co-ord set with a kurta and chikankari pants will make you look like a diva. It's simple, but it's very appealing because of the colour and the work on it.
The embroidery will make every head turn, and the soft colours will do justice to the subtle look that you’re aiming to win over your clients in the next meeting. Pair the set with flats and studs, and oh! Don’t forget to wear your watch for an elevated look.
At House Of Kari, you will get a wide range of chikankari clothing for women. Our handcrafted designs are led by local artisans in India. We not only aim to style women but also to empower them. Let us not restrict stylish Indian wear to weddings or festive wear. Relaxed clothing is turning into couture wear, and chikankari is going places!
Shop yours here!