Zardosi
Zardosi (from the Persian words zar-meaning gold and dosi, meaning embroidery). This embroidery uses metallic gold and silver thread to create heavy, intricate patterns with embellishments like beads, stones and mirrors. Historically used to clothe Mughal emperors and exported to European royal courts during the colonial era; this craft saw a resurgence after India gained its independence in 1947. Maximalism and luxury at its finest.
Chikankari
Chikankari (whitework)- a Lucknow staple. Said to have been inherited by Indian craftspeople from their Persian counterparts during the Mughal era. Traditionally, the technique used delicate white thread to recreate floral imagery on white fabric. As styles changed over generations, artisans have added embellishments like bead and mirror work to enhance the rich look of this embroidery and even begun to use thicker, brightly coloured thread in their work. While the embroiderers of Uttar Pradesh have this skill on lock, its popular in fabric stores all over India and evolves constantly.
Chanderi Silk
Chanderi silk- known as the jewel of Madhya Pradesh. Named for its place of origin, around 60% of the population of the town of Chanderi is involved in the production of this textile. Its lightweight, making it perfect for India’s hot summers, but also versatile enough to create innumerable designs and products. We’ve used this luxurious fabric in our corsets, lehengas and dupattas- hand dyed in a range of stunning shades.