1960s–1970s Bohemian Folkloric Dress with Afghan-Inspired Embroidered Velvet Bodice

A striking and unusual bohemian folkloric dress dating to the late 1960s–1970s, featuring a sculptural velvet bodice richly decorated with Afghan-inspired embroidery. The embroidery panels, worked in deep red with gold and multicoloured detailing, strongly recall Central Asian and Afghan textile traditions, while the overall construction and silhouette place the piece firmly in the bohemian fashion movement of the mid-20th century.

The bodice is structured in velvet with a distinctive yoke shape, fastening at the front and closing with a metal zipper featuring a small pull — a key construction detail consistent with garments from this period. The embroidery is dense, symmetrical, and graphic, creating a powerful visual contrast against the soft velvet ground. Below the bodice, the dress falls into a fluid, sheer dark skirt with generous movement. The waist is defined at the bodice seam, while the hips fall freely, allowing the skirt to drape without restriction.

The long sleeves are softly flared with velvet cuffs that button at the wrist, creating a gentle flounce through the forearm when worn. The shoulders are softly structured through the velvet yoke and then release into the fuller body of the dress, contributing to its dramatic yet wearable silhouette.

Excellent vintage condition for its age. The velvet, embroidery, and sheer fabric present beautifully, with no significant flaws noted.

Measurements (laid flat, approx.)

Pit to pit: 45 cm / 17.7”

Underbust / waist seam: 37.5 cm / 14.8”

Shoulders (across velvet yoke): 35 cm / 13.8”

Shoulder width including flounce: approx. 48 cm / 18.9”

Sleeve length: approx. 60–68 cm / 23.6–26.8” (including flounce)

Length (shoulder to hem): 114 cm / 44.9”

Hips: free

Size guidance

Best suited for approximately EU 36–38 / UK 8–10 / US 4–6

Model's measurements:

Bust: 82 cm = 32.3 in • Waist: 70 cm = 27.6 in • Hips: 84 cm = 33.1 in • Shoulders: 40 cm =15.7 in • Arm length: 55 cm =21.7 in. This dress fits her well with room to go up about one more size.