Why do we love embroidery (and how to wear it)?
7/05/2025Embroidery, the elegance of detail
Delicate, timeless and full of character: embroidery is one of those details that changes everything.
Sometimes discreet, sometimes assertive, it has stood the test of time without ever losing its elegance.
Here's a closer look at the textile art we love so much... and the best ways to adopt it today.
1. Because they tell a story
There's something timeless and emotional about embroidery.
Each thread, each motif evokes a precise gesture, a skill that has been handed down or reinvented. Whether it's a nod to the crafts of yesteryear or a more contemporary inspiration, embroidery breathes soul and authenticity into a piece. It's not just a motif: it's a textile language, discreet but powerful .
2.Because they transform a simple piece into something unique
A basic black dress? Add an embroidered yoke, and it becomes dressy.
A plain white blouse? Add a delicately embroidered collar and it takes on a whole new look.
Embroidery has a rare ability to enhance without overpowering. It adds relief, refinement and an instant ‘coup de coeur’ effect.
3.Because they're a style statement
Romantic, bohemian, retro or minimalist: there are a thousand ways to wear embroidery.
You can choose fine, tone-on-tone embroidery for a very chic look, or colourful, contrasting embroidery for a more assertive effect.
It's a detail that adapts, that personalises, that makes fashion more expressive.
)
Small touches: the art of elegant detailing
If you like sobriety but want to add a refined twist to your outfits, a little embroidery is your ally.
A delicately embroidered collar, an intricately worked sleeve, a discreet pocket yoke... These subtle details break up the simplicity of a softly tailored garment.
It's the right balance for those who like their pieces refined but with real character.
Our advice: pair these pieces with plain basics to let the embroidery speak for itself. Example: the TISTOU t-shirt in pictures
)
As a statement piece: the controlled wow effect
For those who like to make a style statement, embroidery can become the centrepiece of the look. A fully embroidered dress, trousers with delicate floral motifs or a richly embellished top add a unique, artistic touch to your outfit.
These strong pieces stand on their own. The idea is to combine them with plain, sober, well-cut items so as not to overload the silhouette.
For example, an embroidered top will go perfectly with plain flowing trousers. An embroidered dress only needs a pair of neutral shoes to shine.
Our advice: choose one embroidered piece at a time. This allows you to show off the craftsmanship while maintaining an elegant, modern silhouette. Example: the RIVAKA dress
)
A coordinated look: elegance with a difference
Embroidered ensembles offer a strong, stylish look. The total look works perfectly if the embroidery is balanced and well placed: for example on the cuffs, hems, or as an accent on the two pieces.
It's an excellent way of expressing a strong personality, while maintaining a certain harmony. Perfect for special occasions or just to stand out from the crowd.
Our advice: choose an embroidered set in sober shades (ecru, black, navy) for timeless elegance, or dare to use colour for a bold touch. Example: the BIANCA set
)
Our favourite timeless style
At Sud Express, we have a soft spot for broderie anglaise. Lightweight, openwork and full of finesse, it evokes fine days and the softness of natural materials. On a white summer dress, a romantic top, or a textured cotton ensemble, it breathes discreet elegance and irresistible freshness.
Why is it called ‘broderie anglaise’?
Despite its name, this style of embroidery actually originated in continental Europe - particularly Switzerland and France - as early as the 16th century. But it was in 19th-century England, during the Victorian era, that it gained massive popularity. It became one of the symbols of British sartorial refinement, used for baby clothes, summer dresses, petticoats and lingerie.
Its name has stuck, linked to the era when English fashion was a benchmark for delicacy and romanticism in textiles.
)