Product Overview
Celebrate centuries-old Afghan craftsmanship with our Heritage Hand-Embroidered Afghani “Gand” Dress in a rich crimson hue. This floor-grazing, full-sleeve dress features an intricately embroidered bodice and sleeves inspired by tribal patterns, embellished with traditional mirror and metallic charm accents. The voluminous, pleated skirt is framed by ornate white and multicolor embroidered borders, accented with delicate fringe tassels along the hem and cuffs. Completed by a matching embroidered capelet that drapes over the shoulders, this Gand Dress is a statement of cultural heritage and timeless style—ideal for weddings, festivals, cultural gatherings, or any occasion where you wish to stand out in unparalleled elegance.
Key Features
- Authentic Hand-Embroidered Bodice & Capelet
- Tribal Motifs & Mirror Work: The square-shaped yoke features geometric and floral motifs in saturated shades of magenta, saffron, violet, and teal. Hand-stitched mirrors (“shisheh-kari”) and metal spangles add subtle sparkle and reflectivity.
- Capelet Accent: A detachable embroidered capelet sits atop the shoulders, edged with multi-colored threadwork and metallic charms that jingle softly with movement—enhancing the garment’s regal aura.
- Voluminous Pleated Skirt
- Rich Crimson Velvet Base: Crafted from premium cotton-velvet, the skirt drapes luxuriously, offering graceful movement and a structured silhouette.
- Ornate Hem & Border Embroidery: The skirt’s hem is bordered by a wide band of white floral embroidery in traditional Afghan style, layered above a narrow multicolor tribal trim. Delicate white fringe tassels complete the border, creating a stunning visual and tactile finish.
- Hand-Appliquéd Tassels: Small, hand-knotted tassels in crimson and white dangle along the hemline and cuffs, adding dynamic texture and authentic detail.
- Dramatic Full Sleeves
- Layered Embroidery Panels: Each sleeve is divided into three horizontal panels: the top panel echoes bodice motifs in multicolor thread, the mid-section showcases white-on-crimson floral embroidery, and the lower cuff features a repeating geometric band.
- Fringe Edging: Cuffs are finished with fringe tassels that frame the wrists and sway elegantly as you move.
- Fit & Flare Silhouette
- Structured Yoke & Fitted Waist: The tailored bodice narrows at the waist before flaring into the pleated skirt, providing a flattering empire-like waistline.
- Discreet Side Zipper: A concealed side zipper closure ensures a seamless appearance and easy dressing without disrupting the embroidery motif.
- Statement Jewelry Accents
- Integrated Metal Charms & Bells: Beneath the bodice neckline, small metallic discs and bell-shaped charms are incorporated into the embroidery—each charm hand-attached by artisans to add gentle jingle and shine.
- Embellished Neckline: The high, rounded neckline is lined with tiny metallic beads and a narrow embroidered trim, drawing attention to the face and shoulders.
Fabric & Material Details
Component
|
Fabric
|
GSM/Weight
|
Finish & Details
|
Bodice & Sleeves
|
100% Cotton Base (Hand-Embroidered)
|
180–200 GSM
|
Crisp, structured base to support dense embroidery and mirror embellishments
|
Skirt
|
100% Cotton Velvet
|
220–240 GSM
|
Luxurious nap with rich color payoff; retains pleats and drape beautifully
|
Capelet
|
100% Cotton (Hand-Embroidered)
|
150–170 GSM
|
Lightweight yet sturdy, embroidered in matching motifs with dangling charms
|
Lining (Bodice)
|
100% Cotton Poplin
|
80–90 GSM
|
Breathable, soft against skin, ensures comfort beneath heavy embroidery
|
Lining (Skirt)
|
100% Cotton Voile
|
70–80 GSM
|
Lightweight, prevents static and ensures skirt glides smoothly
|
Embroidery Threads
|
100% Rayon & Metallic Zari
|
N/A
|
Vivid colorfast threads, metallic threads add subtle sheen
|
Mirror Work
|
Hand-Cut Glass Mirrors (Shisheh-Kari)
|
N/A
|
Traditional reflective discs secured with embroidered bindings
|
Tassels & Fringe
|
Cotton Thread & Metallic Charms
|
N/A
|
Hand-knotted tassels and metal charms add tactile movement and authenticity
|
Size & Fit Guide
The Heritage Gand Dress is designed to sit at a defined empire waist, with a full, pleated skirt that cascades to the ankles or floor. Both the bodice and sleeves run true to standard Afghan sizing. If you are between sizes, we recommend sizing up for additional ease—especially through the bust and shoulders, as the hand-embroidery panels are non-stretch.
Size
|
Bust (in)
|
Waist (in)
|
Hips (in)
|
Sleeve Length (in)
|
Total Length from Shoulder (in)
|
S
|
34–35
|
26–27
|
36–37
|
23½
|
55½
|
M
|
36–37
|
28–29
|
38–39
|
24
|
56½
|
L
|
38–39
|
30–31
|
40–41
|
24½
|
57½
|
XL
|
40–41
|
32–33
|
42–43
|
25
|
58½
|
XXL
|
42–43
|
34–35
|
44–45
|
25½
|
59½
|
How to Measure:
- Bust: Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your bust, keeping it parallel to the floor.
- Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your natural waist, just above the navel.
- Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks.
- Sleeve Length: From the shoulder seam down to the wrist.
- Total Length: From the highest shoulder point (adjacent to the collar) straight down to the hem.
Availability & Delivery
- International Shipping (Canada, UK, Europe, Australia):
- Expedited courier delivery available. Estimated delivery: 10–18 business days (customs clearance may apply).
- Packaging & Gift Options:
- Arrives in a protective, eco-friendly garment bag.
- Gift-wrapping service (with a complimentary handmade tag) available at checkout for a nominal fee.
- Returns & Exchanges:
- Eligible within 14 days of delivery.
- Item must be returned unworn, undamaged, with all original tags and components, including capelet and detachable charms.
- Return shipping fees apply unless the garment is defective or mis-shipped.
Detailed Features & Benefits
- Rich, Culturally Inspired Embroidery
- Every stitch is handcrafted by Afghan artisans who have inherited these needlework traditions through generations.
- The interplay of bright threads and mirrored accents captures and refracts light, producing a subtle, regal shimmer with every movement.
- Luxurious Velvet Comfort
- The medium-weight cotton-velvet skirt provides structure and volume without excessive bulk—ideal for cooler climates and evening events.
- A fine cotton-voile lining ensures the skirt sweeps smoothly over the legs, preventing cling and maintaining a clean silhouette.
- Statement Capelet & Metal Charms
- The detachable capelet elevates the dress’s versatility: wear it on-shoulder for a fully traditional look or remove it for a slightly simplified silhouette.
- Authentic metallic charms (hand-forged and hand-attached) add subtle movement and an authentic, folkloric aesthetic.
- Dramatic Bell Sleeves & Fringe Accents
- The tiered sleeve design—combining multicolor tribal bands and white floral embroidery—draws the eye upward and balances the fullness of the skirt.
- Fringe tassels along the sleeve cuffs and hem create dynamic visual interest, ensuring you shimmer as you walk or dance.
- Flattering Fit & Flare Design
- A fitted yoke and defined empire waist highlight the narrowest part of the torso, before cascading into a full, pleated skirt that hides the midsection and flatters all body types.
- Side zipper is expertly concealed beneath an embroidered seam for a sleek finish that does not interfere with the dress’s motifs.
Care & Maintenance
- Recommended Cleaning:
- Hand Wash Only: Fill a large basin with cold water (max 30°C/86°F) and a mild detergent designed for delicates. Gently submerge the dress, allowing water to penetrate the embroidery without scrubbing.
- Spot Cleaning: For minor stains, dampen a cloth with a mild detergent solution and gently dab—avoid vigorous rubbing over mirror work or tassels.
- Professional Dry Clean: Acceptable by professionals with experience handling embroidered and velvet garments.
- Drying:
- Lay Flat to Dry: Carefully reshape the dress (especially the pleats and capelet) on a flat towel in a shaded area to preserve color and prevent stretching.
- Avoid Direct Sun & Tumble Dry: Sunlight can fade the vibrant threads and damage velvet pile; tumbler heat can shrink or distort embroidery.
- Ironing & Steaming:
- Steaming Preferred: Gently steam from the inside out, keeping the steamer nozzle at least 6–8 inches away from the fabric to prevent water spots on velvet.
- Low-Heat Ironing: If ironing is necessary, turn the dress inside out and place a clean, thin cotton cloth between the iron and the garment. Press lightly, avoiding direct contact with embroidery, mirrors, or tassels.
- Storage Tips:
- Hang on Broad, Padded Hanger: Support the structured shoulders to prevent distortion.
- Use a Breathable Garment Bag: Protect the dress from dust while allowing air circulation.
- Avoid Crushing Embroidery: If you must fold, place acid-free tissue paper between folds—especially around the bodice and hem areas—to prevent creasing.
Styling Suggestions
- Cultural Festival Glam: Pair with beaded silver jewelry, stacked bangles, and ankle-height leather boots. Let the capelet and mirror work catch the sunlight as you dance.
- Wedding Guest Statement: Combine with statement chandelier earrings and pointed-toe heels in gold or nude to accentuate the metallic charms along the neckline.
Why You’ll Love It
- A Living Tradition: By wearing this Gand Dress, you honor and support Afghan artisans who preserve ancestral embroidery techniques.
- Eye-Catching Detail: From the hand-stitched tribal motifs to the delicate fringe tassels, every angle of this dress reveals a new layer of artistry.
- Versatile Statement Piece: Whether you’re attending a cultural gala or an upscale evening event, this dress becomes the focal point of your ensemble—no additional layering required.
Embrace the spirit of Afghan heritage with our Heritage Hand-Embroidered Afghani “Gand” Dress in Majestic Crimson.
Order today to own an heirloom-quality statement of tradition, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty.