Journal

Kota Doria fabric comes from the town of Kota in Rajasthan, India, and is famous for its delicate checkered pattern, translucent texture, and breathability. The word "Doria" actually means "thread" in English, which highlights the intricate weaving technique used to make this fabric. Even today, Kota Doria is handwoven on traditional pit looms in Kaithoon, near Kota, and in some surrounding villages. The traditional process involves dyeing the yarn, setting the loom, and weaving with precision to create the signature checkered pattern known as "khat."

Traditionally, Kota Doria fabric is made from cotton or a blend of cotton and silk, which makes it breathable and comfortable to wear. It's used to make garments like sarees, kurtas, dupattas, and scarves. Because of its comfort, sheer elegance, and timeless appeal, it's a popular choice for everything from casual wear to formal events.

I have such fond memories of turning my mom's Kota sarees into tunics (salwar kameez) or buying Kota fabrics just to make salwar kameez. They were some of my favorite outfits because the fabric is so soft on the skin and perfect for the scorching summer heat. I hadn't worn Kota since I left India in 2004, but when I came across this beautiful top from Jaipur Pink, it felt like a trip down memory lane. I really wanted to share this amazing piece with you all here. It’s such a creative idea to use this elegant and breathable fabric to make a unique top that blends traditional fabric with a contemporary style, giving you a balanced look that’s both casual and refined. This top can be worn lined or unlined, depending on your preference, and it’s perfect for a casual summer outing or a sun-soaked day by the water!

Chikankari, also known as chikan work, is a traditional embroidery style that originated in the city of Lucknow, India. It involves delicate and intricate hand embroidery using white thread on a variety of lightweight fabrics such as cotton, muslin, silk, or organza. It is one of the most famous and exquisite forms of thread work practiced in India, passed down through generations of artisans in Lucknow and other regions of India. 

Chinkan work is characterized by various fine and elaborate stitching techniques, including flat, raised, and embossed stitches. The most commonly used stitches in Chikankari include the back stitch, long running stitch, jaali stitch etc. These stitches are employed to create intricate patterns and motifs, with paisleys, flowers, birds, and animals being the most popular designs!

Why is Chikan so special to us? Growing up, I have fond memories of my mom bringing back beautiful Chikan kurtas and tops from Lucknow while visiting family there. One of my good friends, whose mom is from Lucknow, would also bring back beautiful Chikan collections to share with us. We would eagerly buy and indulge in these unique pieces, typically only found in Lucknow and not easily accessible elsewhere, especially during the 90s before the days of online shopping. The lightweight and breathable nature of sheer fabrics used for this work made these pieces perfect for hot Indian summers. 

I distinctly remember owning Chikan kurtas in gentle pastel hues of light pink, light pistachio green, and classic white. I still have a white top that my mom bought circa 2000. It doesn't fit me anymore, but it's a part of my keepsake collection. Perhaps someday, my daughters will appreciate it and wear it as well.

Needless to say, beyond nostalgia, the artistry and skill involved in creating Chikankari pieces make them highly valued and cherished. This craftsmanship not only preserves cultural heritage but also provides livelihoods to thousands of skilled artisans.

We are SO excited to partner with Chowk, a Lucknow-based brand, to celebrate and share with you the timeless Chikankari pieces handmade by the local artisans. Stay tuned…