1960s-70s Velvet Afghan Baluchi Tunic Top

A beautiful and richly worked Afghan Baluchi tunic dating to the late 1960s–1970s, crafted in saturated burnt orange velvet and densely embroidered with traditional geometric and floral motifs. This piece features intricate hand embroidery throughout, accented with small mirror elements and decorative stitching along the neckline, chest panel, cuffs and central pocket detail. The embroidery is worked in contrasting tones of green, yellow, turquoise and soft lilac, creating a striking interplay against the warm orange velvet ground. The tunic has a straight, slightly narrow cut through the hips, a split neckline with original tasselled ties, and three-quarter length sleeves finished with embroidered bands. Pieces like this were traditionally made by Baluchi artisans in Afghanistan and neighbouring regions, often originally worn for ceremonial or festive occasions, and later brought to Europe during the late 1960s and 1970s via the hippie trail, where they became iconic countercultural garments prized for their craftsmanship and symbolism. The velvet has softened beautifully with age while retaining its richness of colour, and the embroidery remains intact and vibrant. Very good vintage condition overall with only gentle signs of wear consistent with age and use. Fits XS–S, best for a narrower hip fit. A true collector’s piece that works just as effortlessly styled with jeans and boots as layered under an Afghan coat or Penny Lane jacket in cooler months.

Measurements (laid flat):

Pit to pit (bust): 42 cm / 16.5 in

Waist: 43 cm / 16.9 in

Hips: 47 cm / 18.5 in

Shoulders: 37 cm / 14.6 in

Sleeve length: 41 cm / 16.1 in

Total length: 72 cm / 28.3 in

Approximate fit:

Best suited to XS–S or a slim M, depending on desired fit. Designed as a tunic with ease through the body rather than a close, fitted silhouette.