What are traditional methods for making handmade robes?

Traditional methods of hand crafting robes vary by region, culture, and historical context. Two common techniques that allow artisans to create luxurious, wearable, highly-detailed robes are hand-painting and hand-stitching. In Bali, where the practice of making robes by hand has been passed down for generations, the traditional method of batik is a signature style. The Batik Tulis, for example, is a technique that utilizes wax-resistant dye that is then applied directly to the cloth. It is an intricate, patient process that can produce extraordinarily detailed pieces. Batik Cap is another classic technique where a copper stamp is repeatedly pressed with the wax-resistant dye onto the cloth. This process creates patterns on the garment that are then dip-dyed to saturate color into the unwaxed parts of the robe. Both batik techniques produce unique pieces that represent the incredible talent of our artisans in Bali.

What are the most popular designs for handmade robes?

Each region puts its signature mark on its handmade robes. In Thailand, for example, designs featuring geometric patterns and labyrinth motifs are trending. These patterns are hand-woven to create a ruched texture that highlights the intricacy of each garment. From Bali to Java, our artisans have seen their batik motifs become customer favorites. These wearable canvases feature both hand-painted and hand-printed designs, making for vibrant, one-of-a-kind pieces that allow for artisans and customers to showcase their individuality.

What robes are most comfortable?

The fit, feel, and fabric of a robe should transport you to a place of rest and relaxation. Novicas handmade robes exude comfort, because artisans attend to every detail with painstaking care. Robes made from silk, cotton, or rayon can provide high levels of comfort and versatility. One should look for breathability, absorbency, and versatility when purchasing a robe. Additionally, hypoallergenic fibers, like cotton, can provide comfort to those with sensitive skin. Whether one is looking for a lightweight fabric or a lavishly-woven robe, every handmade piece from Novica artisans brings an expressive twist to new styles and a fresh take on the classics.

How do I care for my handmade robe?

Handmade robes are fine, delicate pieces. These garments require a bit more care when it comes to laundering. Hand-washing in cold water always produces the best results. For machine wash, one can use cold water and the delicate cycle. Avoid twisting or harshly handling the fabric, and never use intense heat settings while drying the robe. Air drying while the fibers are laid flat will help to prevent excessive wear on the fabric, as well as preserve the vibrancy of the robes colors. Always dry a batik or hand-painted robe in the shade.

What is the historical background behind traditional robes?

The journey of the traditional robe throughout history is meandering and culturally specific. Here are just a few of the important stops along the way. In Japan, kimonos are an adaptable garment that have been a staple of cultural fashion since the Heian period. The robes from Bali are influenced by the classic Japanese kimono and yukata. The kimono is crafted with silk and worn over many layers in the winter while the yukata is a summer garment made with a single layer of cotton. Both of these styles reflect the artisans' take on a traditional style. In prehistoric Rome, robes were used to identify social status and to signify special ranks within communities. And by the 1700s, dressing gowns were a fashionable piece in the western wardrobe.

What are the most popular materials for making robes?

The most popular materials for crafting handmade robes are natural fibers such as silk and cotton. Because silk is a light-weight, water-resistant fiber, it provides the wearer a sense of luxury and comfort. Rayon is a natural-based material made up of an organic compound derived from cotton extract or wood pulp. This fiber is extremely durable, breathable, and cost effective. Cotton is celebrated for its comfortability and elasticity, and it provides excellent insulation. These fibers make for garments that exude luxury and relaxation.

Balinese Robes at NOVICA Canada

Bestseller

Gorgeous in Cerulean, Balinese Rayon Short Cross Over Robe Blue Batik Flowers

Size: S/M,L/XL

Nyoman Nadri

(108)

$144.99CAD Wholesale

$144.99CAD
Bestseller

Leafy Haven, Blue and Green Rayon Batik Leafy Garden Long Sleeved Robe

Size: 51" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 45" Bust

Desak Nyoman Parwati

(679)

$133.99CAD Wholesale

$133.99CAD
Bestseller

Midnight Stars, Men's Black Batik Patterned Robe

Size: 54" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 57" Bust/chest x 25.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$130.99CAD Wholesale

$130.99CAD
Bestseller

Misty Ocean, Long Handcrafted Batik and Tie Dyed Rayon Robe from Bali

Size: 51" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 45" Bust/chest x 27.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Desak Nyoman Parwati

(679)

$151.99CAD Wholesale

$151.99CAD
Bestseller

Autumn Joy, Batik robe

Size: 51" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 45" Bust

Desak Nyoman Parwati

(679)

$144.99CAD Wholesale

$144.99CAD
Bestseller

Spiritual centre, Hand-Stamped Batik Rayon Robe with Tie Belt

Size: 51" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 45" Bust/chest x 27.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Desak Nyoman Parwati

(679)

$126.99CAD Wholesale

$126.99CAD
Bestseller

Indigo Orchids, Blue Violet Women's Batik Robe from Indonesia

Size: S/M,L/XL

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$130.99CAD Wholesale

$130.99CAD
Batik Midnight, Indonesian Floral Patterned Black and Ivory Robe

Size: 54" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 57" Bust/chest x 25.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$144.99CAD Wholesale

$144.99CAD
Bestseller

Clear Night, Men's Hand Stamped Cotton Robe

Size: 51" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 55" Bust/chest x 28" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Ketut Suwitra

(80)

$126.99CAD Wholesale

$126.99CAD
Bestseller

Midnight Fireworks, Men's Batik Cotton Robe

Size: 54" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 57" Bust/chest x 25.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$116.99CAD Wholesale

$116.99CAD
Bestseller

Night Dragonflies, Handcrafted Black Batik Robe with Dragonflies from Bali

Size: 51" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 45" Bust/chest x 27.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Desak Nyoman Parwati

(679)

$151.99CAD Wholesale

$151.99CAD
Bestseller

Midnight Rose, Indonesian Floral Patterned Black and White Short Robe

Size: S/M

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$130.99CAD Wholesale

$130.99CAD
Bestseller

Hibiscus Red, Hand Made Batik Robe from Indonesia

Size: 52" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 48" Bust/chest x 27" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Nyoman Nadri

(108)

$141.99CAD Wholesale

$141.99CAD
Bestseller

Bull Snake, Men's Hand Made Batik Robe

Size: 54" L x 57" W x 25.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$130.99CAD Wholesale

$130.99CAD
Bestseller

Bedeg, 100% Cotton Artisan Batik Robe

Size: 54" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 57" Bust/chest x 25.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$112.99CAD Wholesale

$112.99CAD
Bestseller

Dusky Sunrise, Hand-Stamped Batik Robe with Chakra Motif

Size: 51" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 45" Bust/chest x 27.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Desak Nyoman Parwati

(679)

$151.99CAD Wholesale

$151.99CAD
Bestseller

Night Bamboo, Bamboo Motif Cotton Robe in Grey from Bali

Size: S/M,L/XL

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$131.99CAD Wholesale

$131.99CAD
Bestseller

Remembrance, Hand-Stamped Batik Rayon Robe from Bali

Size: 39" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 45" Bust/chest x 27.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Desak Nyoman Parwati

(679)

$126.99CAD Wholesale

$126.99CAD
Indigo Garden, Hand Stamped Batik Flowers on Short Rayon Robe from Bali

Size: S/M,L/XL

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$130.99CAD Wholesale

$130.99CAD
Red Floral Kimono, Hand Made Batik Printed Cotton Robe

Size: S/M,L/XL

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$113.99CAD Wholesale

$113.99CAD
Bestseller

Orange Elegance, Rayon Robe with Black and Orange Batik Pattern from Java

Erna Gendhis

$146.99CAD Wholesale

$146.99CAD
Bestseller

Moonlit Blossoms, 100% Cotton Artisan Batik Robe

Size: S/M,L/XL

Nyoman Nadri

(108)

$53.15CAD Wholesale

~~$74.99CAD~~ $53.15CAD
Bestseller

Tropical Leaves, Handmade Batik Printed Rayon Robe

Size: S/M,L/XL

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$131.99CAD Wholesale

$131.99CAD
Bestseller

Adoration, Red and Black Rayon Hand Crafted Floral Batik Short Robe

Size: S/M,L/XL

Nyoman Nadri

(108)

$116.99CAD Wholesale

$116.99CAD
Green Baliku, Women's Unique Batik Robe

Size: 51" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 45" Bust/chest x 27.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Desak Nyoman Parwati

(679)

$124.99CAD Wholesale

$124.99CAD
Coral Reefs, Women's Batik Patterned Robe

Size: 52" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 48" Bust/chest x 27" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Nyoman Nadri

(108)

$141.99CAD Wholesale

$141.99CAD
Bestseller

Mystery Grove, Blue and Green Batik Leaf Long Sleeved Rayon Robe with Belt

Size: 51" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 45" Bust

Desak Nyoman Parwati

(679)

$133.99CAD Wholesale

$133.99CAD
Midnight Sky, Men's Belted Cotton Robe

Size: 51" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 55" Bust/chest x 28" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Ketut Suwitra

(80)

$126.99CAD Wholesale

$126.99CAD
Bamboo Blue, Blue Rayon Long Robe with Bamboo Batik Print from Indonesia

Size: 51" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 45" Bust/chest x 27.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Desak Nyoman Parwati

(679)

$141.99CAD Wholesale

$141.99CAD
Bestseller

Sensational Swirls, White Swirls on Black Rayon Short Robe

Size: S/M,L/XL

Nyoman Nadri

(108)

$137.99CAD Wholesale

$137.99CAD
Simple Luxury, Black and White Floral Rayon Robe from Indonesia Artisan

Size: S/M,L/XL

Nyoman Nadri

(108)

$141.99CAD Wholesale

$141.99CAD
Bestseller

Rushing River, Women's Batik Cotton Robe

Size: 54" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 57" Bust/chest x 25.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$123.99CAD Wholesale

$123.99CAD
Bestseller

Tropical Fern Forest, Balinese Green and Purple Fern Leaf Rayon Kimono Style Robe

Size: 54" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 57" Bust/chest x 25.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Saktut Raitawati

(517)

$142.99CAD Wholesale

$142.99CAD
Gorgeous in Claret, Grey Batik Bali Flowers on Claret Color Rayon Short Robe

Size: S/M,L/XL

Nyoman Nadri

(108)

$116.99CAD Wholesale

$116.99CAD
Bestseller

Emerald Birds, Women's Fair Trade Batik Robe

Size: 51" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 45" Bust/chest x 27.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Desak Nyoman Parwati

(679)

$155.99CAD Wholesale

$155.99CAD
Bestseller

Exotic Blue, Women's Batik Patterned Robe

Size: 51" Length (from high-point shoulder) x 45" Bust/chest x 27.5" Sleeve (center neck to cuff)

Desak Nyoman Parwati

(679)

$144.99CAD Wholesale

$144.99CAD

There are 118 items in this collection. Explore more!

Featured Reviews

Women's batik robe, 'Turquoise Ocean'

Zeljka

Oct 23, 2017

Comfortable Elegance

The robe is so comfortable - it's the first thing I put on each morning and I feel hugged. The design is unique and playful, yet the colours are somewhat subdued, so it is an eye catcher with its style and elegance rather than screaming colours. This is the second robe I got from the same artisan (the other is the Misty Javanese Forest) and probably not the last one. Love them both!

Batik

Cool

Gorgeous. Unusual. Quality. Dramatic.

Batik robe, 'Autumn Joy'

Charlene

May 12, 2018

Absolutely Fabulous.

This gorgeous item is everything it says it is and more. The colors burst out but subtlety. It's made very well,all stitching secure and finished. This is my third robe,that should speak for itself.

Fair Trade Clothing Women

Gorgeous Robes!!

Great Wine Robe

Batik rayon robe, 'Gorgeous in Cerulean'

MARSHA

Feb 8, 2020

Gift well received.

I ordered this for my daughter for her birthday. She is very petite and my thought was the shorter robe would work for her. She LOVED it! She was so impressed with the gift warping she didn't want to open it. Sent me test photos of the wrap and I was impressed. The product was lovely, soft, and well made. I am happy because my beloved daughter was happy. Believe me, she would have told me if she was not. We have an agreement, since we we live 500 miles apart, to not fake it.

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