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Heritage Hand-Embroidered Afghani “Gand” Dress – Teal Blossom Edition

A$275.00

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Product Overview

Elevate your wardrobe with the Heritage Hand-Embroidered Afghani “Gand” Dress in a refreshing teal hue, accented by vibrant yellow and crisp white threadwork. This floor-sweeping, fit-and-flare gown seamlessly blends centuries-old Afghan needlecraft with a contemporary, bohemian aesthetic. The intricately embroidered bodice and sleeves highlight traditional tribal motifs, while the voluminous pleated skirt features metallic motifs and elaborate border trims. With a detachable embroidered hooded capelet and delicate fringe tassels, the Teal Blossom Edition embodies both regal heritage and modern comfort—perfect for festivals, weddings, cultural celebrations, or any occasion where you want to make a statement.

Key Features

1. Artisan Hand-Embroidered Bodice & Hooded Capelet
   • Authentic Tribal Motifs: The square yoke is stitched by Afghan artisans using chain-stitch, cross-stitch, and mirror-work techniques. Dominant patterns include geometric florals in magenta, saffron, and emerald.
   • Detachable Hooded Capelet: A hooded, embroidered overlay drapes over the shoulders, edged with metallic charms and tiny tassels. Detach it easily to transform the silhouette.
2. Luxurious Pleated Skirt
   • Premium Teal Fabric Base: Crafted in a lightweight cotton-silk blend with a subtle sheen, the skirt offers both flow and structure.
   • Metallic & Printed Motifs: Scattered golden polka-dot prints across the skirt add shimmering texture, accentuated by a border of white vine embroidery and yellow geometric trim.
   • Fringe & Tassel Details: The hem is finished with delicate white fringe, creating movement and dynamic flair.
3. Dramatic Full-Length Sleeves
   • Layered Embroidery Bands: Each sleeve comprises three horizontal panels—multicolor tribal row at the upper arm, yellow and white vine embroidery at mid-sleeve, and teal-on-teal fabric at the cuff.
   • Cuff Tassel Fringe: Finely knotted tassels in white and mustard dangle from the sleeve hems, swaying with every gesture.
4. Flattering Fit & Flare Cut
   • Structured Empire Yoke: The fitted bodice narrows at the empire waistline, emphasizing the bust before flowing into the full, pleated skirt.
   • Hidden Side-Zipper Closure: A discreet side zipper maintains the embroidery’s continuity and provides effortless on/off wear.
5. Vibrant Statement Jewelry Accents
   • Integrated Mirror Work (Shisheh-Kari): Small glass mirrors stitched along the neckline and bodice reflect light and add subtle sparkle.
   • Metallic Charm Bells: Hand-attached metal bells beneath the neckline and at the hem of the capelet produce a soft, musical jingle—a hallmark of traditional Afghan attire.

Fabric & Material Details

Component	Fabric	GSM/Weight	Finish & Details
Bodice & Sleeves	100% Cotton Base (Hand-Embroidered)	180–200 GSM	Structured support for dense, multicolor threadwork and mirror inlays
Skirt	60% Cotton / 40% Silk Blend	150–170 GSM	Lightweight, subtle sheen; holds pleats while remaining fluid
Hooded Capelet	100% Cotton (Hand-Embroidered)	150–170 GSM	Breathable, supports metallic charm attachments
Lining (Bodice)	100% Cotton Poplin	80–90 GSM	Soft against skin; reinforces the embroidery
Lining (Skirt)	100% Cotton Voile	70–80 GSM	Smooth glide; prevents cling
Embroidery Threads	100% Rayon & Metallic Zari	N/A	Vivid, colorfast rayon threads; metallic threads add sheen
Mirror Work	Hand-Cut Glass Mirrors (Shisheh-Kari)	N/A	Traditional reflective discs secured with densely stitched bindings
Tassels & Fringe	Cotton Thread & Metal Charm Bells	N/A	Hand-knotted tassels and small bells add authenticity and movement

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Size & Fit Guide

The Teal Blossom Gand Dress is designed to sit at an empire waist, with a sweeping, pleated skirt that gracefully cascades to ankle or floor length. The bodice and sleeves run true to Afghan sizing standards. If your measurements fall between sizes, we recommend sizing up for extra room—particularly through the bust and shoulders, as the embroidery is non-stretch.

Size	Bust (in)	Waist (in)	Hips (in)	Sleeve Length (in)	Total Length from Shoulder (in)
S	34–35	26–27	36–37	23¾	56
M	36–37	28–29	38–39	24¼	57
L	38–39	30–31	40–41	24¾	58
XL	40–41	32–33	42–43	25¼	59
XXL	42–43	34–35	44–45	25¾	60

How to Measure:

1. Bust: Wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping it parallel to the floor.
2. Waist: Measure at the narrowest point of your natural waist (above the navel, below the rib cage).
3. Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks.
4. Sleeve Length: From the shoulder seam to the wrist bone, with arm slightly bent.
5. Total Length: From the highest shoulder point down to the hemline.

Availability & Delivery

• International Shipping:
  • Canada, UK, Europe, Australia: Expedited courier available. Expected delivery: 5–10 business days (customs clearance times may vary).
• Gift Packaging Options:
  • Arrives in an eco-friendly garment bag.
  • Optional gift wrapping with a complimentary handmade card available at checkout.
• Returns & Exchanges:
  • Eligible within 14 days of delivery.
  • Must be returned unworn, unwashed, and with all original tags (including detachable capelet and charms).
  • Return shipping fees apply unless the dress is defective or mis-shipped.

Detailed Features & Benefits

1. Cultural Authenticity & Artisan Craftsmanship
   • Partnered directly with Afghan women’s cooperatives, each piece celebrates hand-embroidery techniques passed down through generations.
   • The mirror (shisheh-kari) inserts are sourced from village workshops, preserving traditional reflective motifs that symbolize protection and prosperity.
2. Premium Fabric for Comfort & Movement
   • The cotton-silk blend skirt combines the breathability of cotton with the gentle sheen of silk, providing effortless drape and a lightweight feel even in warmer climates.
   • Bodice and sleeves lined in soft cotton poplin ensure comfort against the skin beneath dense threadwork.
3. Statement Hooded Capelet & Bell Charms
   • The detachable hooded capelet adds versatility: wear it for full traditional flair or remove for a streamlined silhouette.
   • Hand-attached metal charm bells beneath the neckline, hem, and capelet edges produce a subtle, musical jingle—infusing your movement with a spirited character.
4. Dramatic Embroidered Sleeves & Flourished Hemline
   • The tiered sleeve design, merging bold tribal bands with floral motifs and fringe, draws the eye upward and balances the skirt’s fullness.
   • Hem embroidery features white vine work juxtaposed against the teal backdrop, complemented by a yellow geometric border for eye-catching contrast.
5. Flattering Fit & Flare Silhouette
   • The fitted empire yoke highlights the narrowest part of the torso, creating an elongated silhouette that flatters all body types.
   • Expertly placed darts at the front and back improve shape retention, preventing gaping around the chest and shoulders over time.

Care & Maintenance

1. Recommended Cleaning:
   • Hand Wash Only: Fill a basin with cold water (max 30°C/86°F) and a gentle detergent formulated for delicates. Submerge the dress, allowing the water to saturate the embroidery without scrubbing.
   • Spot Cleaning: For minor stains, use a soft cloth lightly dampened with a mild detergent solution. Gently pat—avoid vigorous rubbing over mirrored or beaded areas.
   • Professional Dry Clean: Acceptable, provided the cleaner is experienced with embroidered and mixed-fiber garments.
2. Drying:
   • Lay Flat to Dry: Reshape the dress’s pleats and laid-out capelet on a flat surface in the shade to prevent color bleeding or stretching.
   • Avoid Direct Sunlight & Tumble Dry: Direct sun can fade vibrant threads; tumble drying risks shrinking and distorting structured embroidery.
3. Ironing & Steaming:
   • Steaming Preferred: Hang the dress on a padded hanger and steam lightly from the inside, keeping the nozzle at least 6–8 inches away. Steam the lining first to gently release wrinkles.
   • Low-Heat Ironing: If ironing is necessary, turn the dress inside out, place a thin cotton cloth between the iron and the garment, and press lightly on the lining only—avoid direct contact with embroidery, mirrored discs, or tassels.
4. Storage Tips:
   • Use a Broad, Padded Hanger: Support the wide shoulder structure to prevent distortion.
   • Keep in a Breathable Garment Bag: Protect from dust and moths while allowing air circulation.
   • Minimize Folding of Embroidered Areas: If folding is unavoidable, place acid-free tissue paper between folds to reduce creasing.

Styling Suggestions

• Festival Chic: Embrace a bohemian vibe with stacked silver bangles, leather ankle boots, and a wide-brimmed hat. Let the embroidered hooded capelet add an extra layer of drama.
• Wedding Guest Elegance: Pair with gold chandelier earrings, strappy metallic sandals, and a neutral clutch. Sweep your hair into a low bun to showcase the high neckline and mirror work.
• Cultural Celebration: Layer under a lightweight shawl or stole during cooler evenings. Opt for juttis or embellished flats to keep the look rooted in tradition.

Why You’ll Love It

• Present-Day Heirloom: Every stitch carries forward centuries of Afghan needlework tradition, delivered to you in a wearable, contemporary masterpiece.
• Head-Turning Versatility: The removable hooded capelet and cascading tassels allow you to customize your look—from fully traditional to subtly refined.
• Quality That Lasts: Premium fabrics, reinforced stitching, and expert artisan techniques ensure this dress remains a vibrant centerpiece of your wardrobe for years.

Immerse yourself in Afghan heritage with the Heritage Hand-Embroidered “Teal Blossom” Gand Dress.
Order now to own a luminous fusion of tradition, craftsmanship, and modern elegance!