Hand embroidery is the heart of Pakistani couture. When you understand the techniques, you can see why a hand-embellished outfit looks and feels so different. Here are the ones you will find most often in our pieces.
Zardozi
Zardozi is metallic thread embroidery, traditionally in gold or silver, worked by hand using a wooden frame called an adda. It creates raised, textured motifs and is the signature of bridal and formal couture.
Dabka
Dabka uses fine coiled metallic wire, cut into small pieces and stitched down to form dense, shimmering patterns. It is often combined with zardozi to fill flowers and borders.
Kora and tilla
Kora is a thicker, textured coiled wire that gives a matte metallic finish. Tilla is flat metallic thread couched onto the fabric, giving a smooth, elegant line.
Resham
Resham is silk thread embroidery. It brings colour to an outfit, from vibrant floral motifs to subtle tone-on-tone patterns, and is often used in luxury pret and formals.
Naqshi
Naqshi is delicate, fine metallic-thread work that adds subtle sparkle, often around necklines and sleeves.
Cutdana, sequins, pearls and crystals
Cutdana are small cut-glass beads that reflect light; together with sequins, pearls and crystals they add dimension and glamour to necklines, borders and bodices.
Schiffli and cutwork
Schiffli is a fine embroidered fabric with lace-like patterns, and cutwork removes fabric between stitched outlines to create open, airy designs. Both are popular in lighter formals and pret.
Why hand work matters
Hand embellishment takes days or weeks per outfit, which is why every Eva Couture piece is made to order. Small variations between pieces are a sign of genuine handwork, not a flaw. Explore the craft in our Formals and bridal collections.