Embellished Clothing(191 items)
Welcome to NOVICA's Embellished Clothing Collection designed and crafted for you by talented artisans worldwide.
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The Village Council
Your answers straight from the village experts


Traditional methods of hand crafting robes vary by region, culture, and historical context. Two common techniques that allow artisans to create luxurious, wearable, highly-detailed robes are hand-painting and hand-stitching. In Bali, where the practice of making robes by hand has been passed down for generations, the traditional method of batik is a signature style. The Batik Tulis, for example, is a technique that utilizes wax-resistant dye that is then applied directly to the cloth. It is an intricate, patient process that can produce extraordinarily detailed pieces. Batik Cap is another classic technique where a copper stamp is repeatedly pressed with the wax-resistant dye onto the cloth. This process creates patterns on the garment that are then dip-dyed to saturate color into the unwaxed parts of the robe. Both batik techniques produce unique pieces that represent the incredible talent of our artisans in Bali.


Each region puts its signature mark on its handmade robes. In Thailand, for example, designs featuring geometric patterns and labyrinth motifs are trending. These patterns are hand-woven to create a ruched texture that highlights the intricacy of each garment. From Bali to Java, our artisans have seen their batik motifs become customer favorites. These wearable canvases feature both hand-painted and hand-printed designs, making for vibrant, one-of-a-kind pieces that allow for artisans and customers to showcase their individuality.


The fit, feel, and fabric of a robe should transport you to a place of rest and relaxation. Novicas handmade robes exude comfort, because artisans attend to every detail with painstaking care. Robes made from silk, cotton, or rayon can provide high levels of comfort and versatility. One should look for breathability, absorbency, and versatility when purchasing a robe. Additionally, hypoallergenic fibers, like cotton, can provide comfort to those with sensitive skin. Whether one is looking for a lightweight fabric or a lavishly-woven robe, every handmade piece from Novica artisans brings an expressive twist to new styles and a fresh take on the classics.


Handmade robes are fine, delicate pieces. These garments require a bit more care when it comes to laundering. Hand-washing in cold water always produces the best results. For machine wash, one can use cold water and the delicate cycle. Avoid twisting or harshly handling the fabric, and never use intense heat settings while drying the robe. Air drying while the fibers are laid flat will help to prevent excessive wear on the fabric, as well as preserve the vibrancy of the robes colors. Always dry a batik or hand-painted robe in the shade.


The journey of the traditional robe throughout history is meandering and culturally specific. Here are just a few of the important stops along the way. In Japan, kimonos are an adaptable garment that have been a staple of cultural fashion since the Heian period. The robes from Bali are influenced by the classic Japanese kimono and yukata. The kimono is crafted with silk and worn over many layers in the winter while the yukata is a summer garment made with a single layer of cotton. Both of these styles reflect the artisans' take on a traditional style. In prehistoric Rome, robes were used to identify social status and to signify special ranks within communities. And by the 1700s, dressing gowns were a fashionable piece in the western wardrobe.


The most popular materials for crafting handmade robes are natural fibers such as silk and cotton. Because silk is a light-weight, water-resistant fiber, it provides the wearer a sense of luxury and comfort. Rayon is a natural-based material made up of an organic compound derived from cotton extract or wood pulp. This fiber is extremely durable, breathable, and cost effective. Cotton is celebrated for its comfortability and elasticity, and it provides excellent insulation. These fibers make for garments that exude luxury and relaxation.
Featured Reviews on Embellished Clothing
Viscose tunic, 'Kashmiri Night Sky'





By Fran
Evening glamour!
This is stunning! A beautiful reflection of Kashmir where I have visited and love the people! The craftsmanship is beautiful!
Embroidered cotton blouse, 'Elegant in Mint'





By Anne
Intricate design. Flattering shirt.
This is a very cool, cotton blouse. The embroidery is extensive, but understated. When you look on the back you can see the work that has been done. It would be better to wash by hand. I am using a stockings bag in the washing machine - this may affect the embroidery cotton longer term. I love it enough to repair by hand if needed.
Rayon sundress, 'Russet Fusion'





By Mary
Comfy and elegant
I get so many compliments on this dress. Looks chic and elegant, but is so comfortable and easy to wear. Perfect for hot weather.
Featured Artist
Ying and Joy
Popular Embellished Clothing
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Embroidered Open Jacket in Midnight Blue, "Boho Beauty"
$74.99Mixed prints in white and light pink on midnight blue become a stylish open jacket with bohemian flair. Designed by India's Anchal Ahuja, the jacket features a handkerchief hem and sleeves and a lavishly embroidered neckline and front placket with accents of red and green as well as tiny mirrored discs.
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Tie-Dyed Viscose Sundress in Azure from India, "Delhi Azure"
$79.99Made of viscose and decorated with azure and dusty plum dyes using the tie-dye technique, this Indian sundress is presented by Vijay Singh. Lovely glass and sequins embellish the neckline of this luxurious dress, which is sleeveless and has a slight racer back and maxi length. A tasseled tie closure accentuates the neckline.
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Strappy Rayon Tie-Dyed Dress in Russet and Midnight, "Russet Fusion"
$47.99A rich fusion of russet and midnight blue create color harmony on this tie-dyed and screen printed sundress from Rakesh Rana in India. The cool, flowing rayon dress is embellished with traditional embroidery and features on-seam pockets on both sides. Adjustable straps allow for a perfect fit.
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Sheer Black Floral Soutache Embroidered Top, "Soutache Garden"
$89.95$62.97Sheer black fabric is heavily embroidered and appliqued with turquoise, lime green, and ivory floral designs by women working in rural India. A true Indo-Western fusion that draws on the region's long soutache embroidery tradition. Pair with a simple black camisole for a dramatic look.