The Toda Collection

Treat your wardrobe to some linen Toda dresses for men and women

If you were to try and choose from the varied arts and cultures of India, you would find yourself being overwhelmed because there is so much choice. There are so many art forms that originate from quiet corners of the country. At Linen Trail, we go beyond offering cutting-edge, modern fashion; we see ourselves as a responsible and sustainable brand that keeps local culture, arts, and crafts alive. While our linen might come from Europe, our heart beats for India.

In an attempt to bring local art and culture of the country to the forefront, we are constantly looking for ways to incorporate almost forgotten forms into our designs. If you have liked our block-printed shirts, then you will certainly enjoy our Toda collection too. Lovingly handcrafted by an indigenous pastoral community in the Nilgiris of southern India, our linen Toda shirts, dresses, and tops are sure to capture your attention.

What makes Toda dresses stand apart

The Toda people are known for their distinctive culture and unique clothing, featuring special embroidery with geometric patterns and motifs, typically created using red and black threads on a white or cream background.

• Toda embroidery is characterized by intricate geometric patterns, such as squares, triangles, diamonds, and lines.
• The embroidery uses a technique called "couching," where the base fabric is first covered with lines of stitches and then filled with rows of small stitches that hold down the laid threads.
• Each motif in Toda embroidery carries symbolic significance within Toda culture, associated with mythology, rituals, and social stories.

Once used exclusively by the women of the Toda community, this embroidery now reaches contemporary fashion, representing a rich cultural tradition that continues to thrive.

Add some rustic charm with linen Toda shirts for men

If you want to add rustic charm to your wardrobe, explore our linen Toda shirts for men. Crafted for those who value both comfort and class, these shirts bring a sense of quiet luxury to any wardrobe.

• Our selection includes linen Toda long sleeve shirts for men, perfect for office and formal wear, as well as occasions like weddings and parties.
• The linen Toda half sleeve shirts for men at Linen Trail are suited for casual occasions, from casual Fridays at work to flawless holiday outfits.

Brighten up your wardrobe with linen Toda dresses for women

The elegance and charm of Toda embroidery bring a quiet luxury that’s captivating. When combined with high-quality linen, our linen Toda dresses for women offer pure comfort and style. Here are some options available:

• Sleeved and sleeveless dresses with embroidery down the front, ideal for casual and office wear.
• Stylish tops that can be paired with skirts, pants, or denim, suitable for casual and semi-formal occasions.
• The Toda embroidery jacket adds versatility, wearable over tops, t-shirts, shirts, and more.

FAQ

• What is Toda embroidery?
  Toda embroidery is a traditional craft practiced by the Toda tribe of the Nilgiris Hills in Tamil Nadu, India.
• What is the significance of Toda embroidery motifs?
  Each motif in Toda embroidery reflects Toda mythology, rituals, and social hierarchy.
• What fabric is used for Toda embroidery?
  While various fabrics can be used, linen is unmatched. At Linen Trail, you’ll find exclusive Toda embroidery on linen.
• What are the colors of Toda embroidery?
  The traditional colors are red and black on a base of white or cream.
• Do you offer Toda embroidery in men’s clothing?
  Yes, we offer Toda embroidery shirts for men in both full and half sleeves.