Embroidered tops for women in India fall into two categories that look similar in photos and feel completely different in wear. The first: embroidery applied by machine in a repeating pattern, uniform across the piece, usually on a synthetic base. The second: embroidery placed by hand — either woven into the fabric (schiffli) or applied by an artisan who makes placement decisions on each individual piece.
The practical difference shows after washing. Machine-applied embroidery on synthetic fabric tends to pucker at the embroidered edges as the base fabric and embroidery thread respond differently to washing. Handworked embroidery on natural fabric ages together — the embroidery and the base fabric have similar properties and behave consistently.
Types of embroidered tops worth knowing
Schiffli embroidered tops: The embroidery is woven into the fabric at production. It's part of the fabric itself, not applied to a finished piece. This means it has the same drape and weight as the base fabric, never puckers, and ages consistently. Browse our handcrafted tops and shirts collection to see schiffli styles available now.
Hand-sequined tops: Sequins applied individually by hand. Each sequin is placed and sewn separately — the result is a dimensional, textured surface that catches light differently from every angle. Our Shimmer Sequin Shirt is made exactly this way — hand-applied sequins on a structured base.
Appliqué tops: Fabric pieces cut and stitched by hand onto a base fabric. Creates geometric or organic pattern work that has real depth — you can feel the layers with your fingers.
For festive occasions, a hand-sequined top paired with wide-leg trousers is one of the most efficient outfit formulas — polished, distinctive, and zero effort to put together. Explore our handcrafted dresses and cape tops for more embellished options.
Haus of Handmade makes embroidered tops for women with hand-applied embellishment — schiffli, sequin and appliqué styles in limited batches. Free India shipping. COD available.
Shop Haus of Handmade: tops & shirts · Shimmer Sequin Shirt · co-ord sets · cape tops · dresses
Read next: For a complete guide to every type of handmade top, read our complete guide to handmade tops for women in India.
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