Crafting Sustainable Fashion: Chikankari Embroidery as a Cultural Legacy

Abstract

Chikankari is a delicate traditional hand-embroidery from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. This is famous for its intricate beautiful designs, heritage value and cultural significance. Chikankari is a centuries-old craft also known as white embroidery or shadow work. Chikankari embroidery reflects the Indian aesthetics and rich cultural heritage. This study analyze chikankari embroidery as a representation of cultural, heritage identity, observing its transformation from a local craft to a global contemporary fashion. It explore how contemporary fashion designers integrate chikankari embroidery motifs and stitches into modern design, preserving its authenticity while adapting to global markets. Further, this study highlights the challenges faced by craftsmen in preserving its originality, sustain their livelihoods, including mass production machine imitation, cultural appropriation. By emphasising the importance of sustainable practices and collaboration between artisans and contemporary designers, the paper aims to uplift the sustaining and appreciation of chikankari as an immortal art form and cultural heritage symbol.