These vintage embroidered choli tops are incredibly rare and special: their ages range from the early to mid 20th Century, and all of them were embroidered by hand by the Rabari people in what is now Northwest India. The Rabari people are an ethnic group, who today reside primarily in northern and central India, and Pakistan. They have long been known for their impressive embroidery, which traditionally is painstaking completed by hand in vibrant colors. (The Rabari men are known for dressing in all white, while the women dress very colorfully.)
There are three tops available in different colorways: JADE, INDIGO, CRIMSON. The embroidery in each top is unique, as described below. All of them were found without the original tie closure, so they have been modified with the covered elastic back strap; the strap attaches to the top with hidden hook/eye closures. The tops vary somewhat in their measurements but note that they will best fit a petite frame; the elastic back does offer some flexibility as it stretches. The arm openings are on the small side, especially at the binding, but on all tops they get roomier at the top towards the shoulder.
INDIGO: Mainly indigo, with red patches on the front and embroidery in red, yellow, white, etc. that extends on the back as well. There are some markings on the front but it's considered a part of the pattern and the natural variations of this historic object. The back strap is covered with indigo silk shantung.
Measurements: Opening at bottom: 30" / Sleeve opening: 9.25" / Sleeve width under armpit: 13.5" / Total sleeve length: 9.75"
JADE: Mainly green, with aqua patches at the chest, and embroidery in red, yellow, white, aqua, etc. There is some faint white writing on the front; Rabari embroidery is known to be symbolic of mythologic and cultural rituals, which offers some insight as to why this writing would appear on clothing. There are some additional markings on the fabric but it's considered a part of the pattern and the natural variations of this historic object. The back strap is covered with cream silk zibeline.
Measurements: Opening at bottom: 31" / Sleeve opening: 8.5" / Sleeve width under armpit: 14" / Total sleeve length: 9.75"
CRIMSON: This is the oldest top of these three, dating to the early 20th Century. It is mainly a rich red, with indigo patches at the chest. There is very intricate embroidery on the sleeves, which is a hallmark of the Rabari culture; to me, the motif looks like a starry night. The Rabari were also known to embroider small mirrors onto clothing, which can be found on one sleeve. There are some markings on the fabric but it's considered a part of the pattern and the natural variations of this historic object. The back strap is covered with a red silk blend.
Measurements: Opening at bottom: 25.25" / Sleeve opening: 8.5" / Sleeve width under armpit: 14.25" / Total sleeve length: 10.75"
Note: These will work best for a modern size X-Small but please refer to measurements listed.
With any questions about the specific condition or size, please email shop@verybreezy.com for additional photos or measurements, as all sales are final.
SHIPPING & DELIVERY: learn more.
