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A cotton tunic top is the most useful Indian piece you can own – it works with jeans, trousers, palazzos and skirts, and it is easy to wash and wear again and again. But there are two very different styles: hand block printed and embroidered. Here is how to choose.
Hand block printed tunics: light, breezy and handmade
In Jaipur, block printing is done by hand with carved wooden blocks. The printer dips each block in colour and presses it onto the fabric, one motif at a time. The result is a soft, slightly irregular print that machines cannot copy.
- Best for: hot days, travel, casual Fridays, holidays
- Why you will love it: featherlight, very breathable, gets softer with every wash
- Try: our coral pink anar print tunic, the sky blue anar print tunic or the aqua leaf pintuck tunic
The anar (pomegranate) motif is a classic in Rajasthani craft – a symbol of abundance and good fortune.
Embroidered tunics: bold, polished and statement-making
Embroidered tunics carry a dense thread-work yoke that instantly lifts a simple outfit. They look more dressed-up and are perfect when you want one piece to do all the work.
- Best for: office, festive lunches, dinners, college events
- Why you will love it: looks premium with plain jeans; photographs beautifully
- Try: the yellow tunic with black floral embroidery or the olive green tunic with white embroidery
Quick comparison
| | Hand block print | Embroidered | |---|---|---| | Feel | Light and airy | Structured yoke | | Look | Relaxed, artisanal | Polished, statement | | Best season | Summer, travel | All year, festive | | Wear to | Brunch, holidays, casual office | Office, dinners, festive days | | Care | Easy hand or gentle machine wash | Gentle hand wash, iron on reverse |
How to style any tunic top
- Flared jeans + heels – lengthens your legs and balances the hip-length tunic.
- Straight trousers + loafers – an easy office look.
- White palazzo + jhumkas – instantly festive.
- Denim jacket on top – perfect for UK, Canada or US autumn.
Frequently asked questions
Does hand block print fade? Natural variation is normal, but with a cold hand wash and drying in shade, the colours stay bright for a long time.
Which tunic is better for the office? Embroidered tunics look more polished; block printed tunics with a collar (like our aqua pintuck) also work beautifully.
Are these tunics true to size? They have a regular, easy fit. Choose your usual top size or size up for a relaxed look. Not sure? Message us on WhatsApp.
