What is appliqué work in Indian garments? How is it different from embroidery?

Appliqué is a decorative technique where cut-out pieces of fabric are stitched onto a base fabric to create patterns — rather than using thread alone (as in embroidery). The word comes from the French "appliquer" (to apply).

How appliqué differs from embroidery:

• Embroidery creates patterns using only thread stitched into base fabric
• Appliqué layers additional fabric pieces onto the base — creating a three-dimensional, tactile effect
• Appliqué is typically faster and more affordable than dense hand embroidery for similar visual impact

Types of appliqué in Indian garments:

• Fabric appliqué: Decorative fabric shapes (flowers, leaves, geometric) stitched onto kurtas, dupattas, and saree pallus
• Kutch appliqué: Traditional Gujarat appliqué using tiny mirror pieces and coloured fabric patches — cousin of Shisha embroidery
• Leather appliqué: Used on bags and some festive garments

Wholesale price impact: Appliqué adds ₹60–₹300 per garment depending on coverage and complexity.