Embroidery is the age-old craft of creating patterns and designs on fabrics and other materials withneedles, colourful threads and embellishments. It has a humble beginning and it started as a means to mend clothing. But, over time, it has grown into a creative art that decorates and enhances garments. Embroidery, which is believed to have risen on Islamic soil, is a very important part of Muslim civilization. In the olden times, embroidery was a sign of higher social status in Muslim societies.
Embroidery was and still is a way to show the rich heritage of Islamic art. Embroidery adds colour, texture and richness to the garments. In the Muslim culture, embroidery is used in a variety of handiworks from royal to ordinary, from rich, luxurious garments to household objects like tapestries, handkerchiefs, tablecloths, quilts, cushions, curtains, etc.

Embroidery has primarily been women’s handiwork. Islamic women have a great role in the creation of this artistic tradition that signifies beauty and culture. In a world where a woman’s voice was usually disregarded, this rich art of needlecraft and embroidery gave her the ability to express her love for life, tradition and religion. Often, this beautiful Islamic work told the story of these women who put their heart and soul into creating beautiful patterns and designs. The magnificent embroidery shows the diversity of the work and culture within the Islamic world. Spanning as far west as Morocco, through Africa, across the Middle East to as far east as Pakistan, each embroidered handiwork speaks of its unique style and culture. The handiwork and skills have evolved over time through influence and integration with other cultures and countries, but the essence of the art of embroidery can be seen across all Islamic clothing. The western world has always considered the craft of embroidery as a specialty of the Muslim world.

Islamic embroidery largely made use of metallic threads, mainly gold, silver and copper, imparting a stunning beauty to the garments. The embroidery in the medieval period traditionally depicted human figures, animals, birds, trees and flowers. These have been adapted over the years, and the exquisitely embroidered Arabic clothing of recent times display beautiful artwork in a variety of patterns like floral, geometric and different types of motifs to name a few. This craft is sewn on rich, luxurious fabrics like silk, velvet, satin, linen, wool, cotton, etc. Adorned with dazzling embellishments like precious stones, pearls, beads, sequins, etc., Arabic wear is one of the most beautiful forms of clothing ever made. The breathtaking Islamic clothing from wedding wear, kaftans, jalabiyas, evening gowns and evening dresses to more traditional and casual abayas and hijabs, embroidery plays a huge role in Arabic couture.

Modest and traditional, yet gorgeous and enchanting, the timeless Islamic embroidery has captured the heart of many across the world and continues to do so.

Check out our Collection to explore the exquisitely embroidered Arabic wear.