1970s Red Afghan Kuchi Dress

An original 1970s Afghan dress made from lightweight cotton and patterned in deep berry, wine and red tones. Dresses of this kind emerged in the late 1960s and 1970s when traditional garments from Afghanistan were brought to Europe via the overland routes and sold through markets, boutiques and alternative fashion scenes.

These garments were typically handmade or assembled in small workshops using traditional textiles and embroidery techniques and were never mass-produced in the modern sense, giving each piece its own individual character. The high empire waist, gathered skirt and generous cut were designed for comfort, movement and versatility, qualities that made these dresses beloved then and still highly wearable today.

This example features a richly embroidered bodice accented with striking cobalt blue beadwork at the neckline, creating a beautiful contrast against the warm red and wine tones. Additional decorative embroidery and woven embellishments appear throughout the bodice and cuffs, highlighting the craft and ornamental detail typical of Afghan garments of this era. The dress slips over the head and falls into an easy, flowing silhouette that moves beautifully with the body.

A timeless and expressive piece of 1970s bohemian fashion history.

Condition

Very good vintage condition. Light, age-appropriate signs of wear may be present, consistent with a genuine garment of this era.

Measurements are taken flat and are approximate.

Please compare these measurements to a similar garment you already own to ensure the best fit.

Shoulder panel width (yoke): 29 cm / 11.4 in

Bust (pit to pit): 44 cm / 17.3 in

Underbust / empire seam: 40 cm / 15.7 in

Length (shoulder to hem): 121 cm / 47.6 in

Sleeve length (from shoulder): 57 cm / 22.4 in

Additional fit notes:

Distance from shoulder to underbust (empire seam): 21 cm / 8.3 in

Distance from shoulder to armpit: 26 cm / 10.2 in

No stretch. Drop-shoulder construction with gathered sleeves.

Approximate modern size: XS–S (can work for a small M if bust is small)

Best suited for: smaller to average bust

Styling notes

Wear with boots or flats for everyday wear or add a light belt to define the waist. Equally beautiful worn loose and flowing, true to its original spirit.