Embroidered Velvet Tamang Topi for Men

A taller, dressier Tamang hat: a straight-sided velvet crown covered in embroidery, finished with gold cord at the top and a thin band of stripes at the base. Tamang men wear it for Sonam Lhosar, for weddings and for the formal evenings when brocade feels too light, and it photographs well above a dark jacket or the Tamang vest.

The embroidery runs around the sides in a repeating band of flowers and curling leaves, each motif outlined so it stands clear of the pile, and the flat top carries a four-petal flower inside a diamond of cord. The velvet reads almost black in shadow and lights up on the thread when the wearer turns, which is the effect the cap is made for. The crown is stiffened so the cylinder stands straight and the top stays level.

Wear it with the Tamang shirt and vest on Sonam Lhosar, the Tamang new year in January or February, or with a plain kurta at a family wedding. The rounder, lighter cap with the striped rim is the unisex Tamang syade in Tash Kuchin brocade. Both belong with the other Nepali topis and caps for men. Each cap is embroidered and stitched for Bhutib in the Eastern Himalayan hills.

Questions buyers ask

How is this different from the brocade Tamang topi? This cap is taller and straight-sided, cut in velvet with embroidery all round, and made for men. The brocade syade is rounder, lighter, has the striped rim and is worn by men and women alike.

What size is it? One free size that fits adult heads; the stiffened crown keeps it standing straight.

How do I keep the velvet clean? Brush it gently in the direction of the pile and keep it dry. If it needs more than that, dry clean it; never put velvet in water.