Types of embellishment
| Type | Look | How it's attached | Durability | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crystal stones (rhinestones) | Bright sparkle that catches light | Hand-sewn or heat-set | Hand-sewn high, heat-set medium | Eid, weddings, evening |
| Glass or acrylic stones | Bold colour, less sparkle | Hand-sewn or heat-set | Medium | Lighter occasions, smaller budgets |
| Beads and pearls | Soft, elegant, textured | Hand-sewn | High | Necklines, cuffs, bridal |
| Sequins | Shimmer across larger areas | Hand or machine | Medium | Kaftans, party wear |
| Hand embroidery (silk or gold thread) | Raised, rich, traditional | Hand-stitched | Very high | Jalabiya, maghribi, thobe |
| Machine embroidery | Neat, even, faster to make | Machine | High | Everyday jalabiya, repeat patterns |
| Trim and braid (aakad, sfifa) | Classic Moroccan finish | Hand-sewn | Very high | Maghribi |
Where to place it
- Neckline only: subtle and elegant for every day, and the lowest cost.
- Neckline and cuffs: the classic Eid look.
- Front panel or yoke: draws the eye vertically and flatters most figures.
- Hem border: adds weight so the dress falls well. Good on chiffon kaftans.
- Full body: bridal and statement pieces. The heaviest option and the longest to make.
Coverage, price and time
| Coverage | Effect | Relative cost | Extra making time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light (neckline) | Subtle | Low | Little |
| Medium (neckline, cuffs, hem) | Festive | Medium | A few days |
| Heavy (panels, full body) | Bridal or statement | High | Allow 5–6 weeks before an occasion |
Tips
- Hand-sewn lasts longer than heat-set. Choose it for pieces you will wear often.
- Match stone weight to fabric. See the fabric guide.
- Pick one metal tone – gold, silver or rose – for stones, trim and thread so the look stays clean.
- Like a readymade piece but want more sparkle? We can add stones to it, or remake the design with heavier work.