In a world of rapid production and fleeting trends, there exists a craft that thrives on patience, precision, and poetry—Chikankari. An age-old hand embroidery technique from the heart of Lucknow, Chikankari is not just an art form; it’s a quiet rebellion against mass-made fashion. At Payal Jain, our creative process is deeply entwined with traditions like these—slow, soulful, and rich with meaning…
Over the years, I’ve worked with many art forms, but my Chikankari collection, ‘Awadh’, holds a special place in my heart. Named after the very region from which this craft emerged, the collection is a tribute—to the land, the technique, and the hands that bring it to life. Each garment weaves together tradition, craftsmanship, and a refined design sensibility that celebrates detail and restraint. It takes a team of skilled Chikankari artisans sometimes 6 to 8 weeks to complete a single piece. Each motif is hand-drawn, hand-embroidered, and carries within it the intention of the artisan. It is slow fashion in its truest form.
For me, Chikankari embroidery is not an embellishment—it is a quiet storyteller. Every thread speaks, every pattern holds a history. It is subtle, yet powerful. It doesn't shout for attention, yet it lingers in memory. To own a piece of Chikankari is to hold a fragment of history, one that has been passed down through generations. And once it touches you, it never really leaves—it becomes a part of you, stitched gently into your story.
