This is a vintage choli (top) from the Banjara people of NW India. This style of garment is open in the back and typically made of light weight cotton material, well suited for the hot climate. These cholis are made in multiple pieces with the intention that they would / could be easily modified as the wearer grew (they were / generally made when a girl is quite young. They are adorned with mirror work (shisha,) embroidery, applique, and frequently additional patches and beads that have regional significance, and usually are fairly bright (a common characteristic of Banjara dress.)

Due to the nature of the construction, materials used, and age, there are not many in large sizes in good condition. Most of these will need to be modified if you plan on wearing them, especially if they are going to be worn for dance. The good thing is they were designed to be taken apart and have fabric added in strategic locations (side panels, ribs / bust, underarms etc.)

They are beautiful as decoration, and certainly can be worn keeping in mind the above mentioned possible modifications. The cholis we have are any where between 20-50 years old, and each will exhibit signs of authentic tribal use (fading, stains, cracked mirrors, etc.) how ever we are careful to select ones that do still have some life left in them, or significant artistic merit.

Over all length:18"

Bust panel flat:12"

Armpit to end of sleeve: 4.5"

Neck opening to end of sleeve:9"

Sleeve laying flat: 5.5" (11" circumference)

* Nice older piece, appears to be hand woven fabric, great colors, worn but not in bad shape

Available Quantity: 1

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