Hand-block printed suits offer an age-old craft aesthetic combined with modern-day wearability. From leisurely summer days to festive gatherings, block-print suits add understated elegance, comfort, and a touch of heritage to any wardrobe. In this guide, we explore the origins of handblock printing, why block-print suits remain relevant, how to care for them, and how to style them with Aachho picks.

The Heritage of Handblock Printing in India

Hand-block printing a method where carved wooden blocks are dipped in dye and stamped onto fabric is one of the oldest textile techniques in India.

Archaeological evidence suggests that block-printed cotton textiles were in use even during the Indus Valley Civilization. Over centuries, regions like Rajasthan and Gujarat popularized variants such as Bagru, Sanganeri or Dabu prints each with distinct motifs, natural dyes, and artisan lineage.

The charm of block-print fabric lies in its handcrafted irregularities, natural dyes, and the human touch making every piece subtly unique.

With evolving tastes, block-print suits moved from being purely traditional to versatile suitable for casual wear, workwear, festive occasions, and more. Brands like Aachho carry forward this legacy, making block-printed suits accessible for modern wardrobes.

Why Block-Print Suits Are A Wardrobe Essential

Breathable & Comfortable: Most block-print suits use cotton or lightweight fabric perfect for Indian weather and long hours wear.
Artisanal and Unique: Each print is manually stamped - slight variations in motifs or colors give each outfit a unique identity.
Versatile for Many Occasions: From relaxed casual wear to festive gatherings, block-print suits adapt easily depending on styling and accessories.
Ethnic Charm Meets Modern Comfort: Whether straight-cut salwar suits, Anarkalis, or palazzo-style suits, block prints blend heritage with contemporary cuts.

Aachho Picks: Block-Print Suit Sets Worth Checking Out

Here are some beautiful handblock-print suits from Aachho that capture the essence of this craft ideal for different moods, occasions and styling choices:

Bhoomi Handblock Gotapatti Suit Set — Cotton suit with delicate block-print motifs and subtle gota detailing, perfect for daytime festive functions or family gatherings.

Red Rosewood Handblock Suit Set — Vibrant red block-print cotton suit with dupatta, great for festive lunches or casual celebrations.

Yasmin Angrakha Suit Set — A soft pastel print suit that works beautifully for summer outings or casual wear.

If you explore Aachho’s Block Printed Suits collection, you’ll find a diverse range from cotton suits to embroidered block-print pieces suited for every occasion.

How to Care for Block-Print Suits

Because block-print suits often carry natural dyes and handcrafted prints, they need gentle care to preserve their beauty:

Hand-wash with mild detergent in cold water. Harsh detergents can fade the print.
Wash separately for the first few washes. This prevents colour bleeding onto other garments.
Avoid soaking, rubbing, or wringing. Gently squeeze out excess water. Dry stains or wash spots quickly rather than letting them sit.
Dry in shade, not direct sunlight. Sunlight can fade natural dyes or weaken fabric over time.
Iron carefully — inside out, on low heat. If the suit has prints or embroidery, placing a thin cloth over the fabric before ironing helps protect the design.
Store properly. Use cotton garment bags rather than plastic covers. Refold occasionally to avoid stiff creases on printed areas.

With proper care, a hand-block print suit can last many seasons — preserving both fabric and artisan craftsmanship.

How to Style Block-Print Suits

Block-print suits are surprisingly versatile. Here are styling ideas depending on mood and occasion:

Daytime Casual or Office Wear:
Go for cotton block-print suits with minimal jewellery — think small jhumkas or studs, simple flats or juttis. Pair with a neutral dupatta or skip it for a modern minimalist vibe.

Festive or Puja Occasions:
Choose block-print suits with richer prints or embroidery. Add statement oxidised or kundan jewellery, bangles, and traditional juttis to bring out the ethnic charm. A colour-contrasting dupatta adds a festive pop.

Brunches / Day Events:
Pastel or muted block-print suits work beautifully for brunches or casual meetups. Soft makeup, braided hair or loose curls, and a sling bag give a fresh, effortless look.

Mix & Match / Fusion Styling:
Pair a block-print kurta with palazzo pants or even jeans for a modern Indo-western take. Layer with a denim jacket or a shrug to add urban flair. Minimal accessories keep the focus on the print.

Comfort-Focused Travel / Summer Wear:
Block-print cotton suits are ideal for travel or warm-weather wear — they are light, breathable, and comfortable yet stylish. Pair with mojris and a simple dupatta or scarf for a relaxed, ethnic look.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between block-print and handblock-print suits?

“Block-print” generally refers to machine or block-based printing; “handblock-print” emphasises that each motif is stamped by artisans using carved wooden blocks, retaining the handcrafted charm. Aachho’s handblock collection stays true to the artisanal process.

2. Do block-print suits fade quickly after first wash?

If washed gently in cold water with mild detergent and dried in shade, block-print suits retain colour well. Proper care helps maintain print and fabric life.

3. Are block-print suits only for casual wear?

Not at all. With the right fabric, colour, and styling (jewellery, dupatta, footwear), block-print suits can be worn for festive events, cultural functions, and casual gatherings alike.

4. Which fabric works best for block-print suits — cotton or blends?

Cotton is most common and best for comfort and summers. However, cotton-blend or cotton-silk blends also work well — especially if the block print suit is designed to be slightly dressier. Aachho’s block-print collection includes many such variations.

5. How to choose prints and colours for block-print suits?

For day wear: choose lighter colours, soft floral or geometric prints. For festive or evening wear: richer hues, bolder motifs and possibly a contrasting dupatta or accessories.