Afghan Embroidered Dress

A striking and authentic Afghan dress from the 1970s, characterised by its dramatic silhouette and richly embroidered yoke with mirrorwork. The deep burgundy yoke is densely decorated with traditional Afghan embroidery in earthy tones, set against a flowing black body that creates beautiful contrast and movement. This is the kind of piece that defined the 1970s Afghan fashion wave: practical, theatrical, and made to move.

The cut features a softly structured yoke with generous volume through the body and a very full skirt. Batwing-style sleeves fall fluidly from the yoke and gather into buttoned cuffs at the wrist, creating a sculptural yet wearable shape. The dress closes at the side with buttons (no zip), and the label reads size M.

This dress works beautifully worn traditionally, or styled in a more bohemian way with boots and jewellery. A soulful piece with strong presence and that unmistakable Afghan craftsmanship.

Condition is very good vintage condition, with no notable flaws observed, but moderate signs of wear such is the case with almost all vintage.

Measurements taken flat:

Pit to pit approximately 48 cm / 18.9 inches (note: batwing sleeves make this an approximate guide)

Underbust 42 cm / 16.5 inches

Waist 42 cm / 16.5 inches

Hips free / very full

Sleeve length approximately 61 cm / 24.0 inches

Wrist opening 10.5 cm / 4.1 inches (buttoned cuff)

Yoke width approximately 30 cm / 11.8 inches (shoulder area flares beyond this)

Total length 124 cm / 48.8 inches

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 fir her just fine, but due to style could also be worn by someone with a larger stature, size 38-40, depending on bust/underbust and desired fit.