What Is Block Print and Why Has It Been So Popular Historically?
Block printing is one of the oldest methods of textile decoration in the world. Originating in India centuries ago, it involves hand-carving intricate patterns on wooden blocks, dipping them in natural dyes, and then stamping them onto fabric. What makes block printing so special is the human touch; each piece is slightly different, making every shirt or kurta a unique work of art. Historically, block print was a staple in Indian wardrobes, not just for its aesthetics but also because it allowed communities to tell cultural stories through clothing. Over the years, it found its way into ethnic and traditional wear, particularly in festive or ceremonial outfits.
But somewhere along the way, especially with the advent of fast fashion and mass-produced synthetic fabrics, block printing began to fade from mainstream men’s wardrobes. It was often relegated to niche markets or seen as too "ethnic" or "traditional" for everyday wear. However, all that is changing, and fast. Block print is no longer just for wedding kurtas or heritage collections. It's re-emerging in the modern fashion landscape, now embraced by younger, style-conscious men who value individuality, sustainability, and comfort.
Why Block Print Is Trending Again in 2025
If you’ve noticed an uptick in block-printed shirts and kurtas on Instagram reels, Pinterest boards, or even at upscale cafés and co-working spaces, it’s not a coincidence. The resurgence of block print in men’s fashion is part of a larger trend that favours authenticity, craftsmanship, and slow fashion. With the increasing shift towards conscious buying, men today are more aware of what they wear, not just how it looks, but how it’s made and where it comes from. Block printing fits perfectly into this narrative.
One reason block print is back is its visual richness. While solid shirts and minimalist prints continue to dominate workwear, weekend and vacation wardrobes are now craving vibrancy, pattern, and texture, things block print delivers effortlessly. Add to that the revival of Indian and Indo-western styles, and you get a perfect storm for block-printed clothing to thrive.
Is Block Print Comfortable for Summer?
A big reason why block-printed shirts and shirt kurtas are gaining popularity is that they're not just stylish, they’re also incredibly breathable. Most block-printed garments are made with natural fabrics like pure cotton, which is ideal for Indian summers. Cotton allows the skin to breathe, absorbs sweat, and doesn't cling to your body, making it a summer essential. When you add traditional block prints to cotton, you don’t just get functionality, you also get flair.
At SEVN SIGNAL, we’ve made this blend of comfort and design our core philosophy. Each of our block print pieces is designed keeping in mind both visual appeal and day-long wearability. These aren't clothes that just look good in pictures; they feel good all day long, whether you’re working, travelling, or celebrating.
How to Style Block Print Shirts and Kurtas Casually
You don’t need a wedding or a family puja to wear block print anymore. In fact, one of the most exciting aspects of its comeback is how versatile it has become. You can easily pair a block-printed short kurta with denim or chinos for a modern Indo-Western look. For summer brunches or casual Fridays at work, try a half-sleeve block print shirt with linen trousers or even shorts. It’s about looking put-together without looking like you tried too hard.
Take the Turquoise Cotton Half Sleeve Shirt from SEVN SIGNAL as an example. Made from breathable cotton and adorned with subtle block prints, this shirt is perfect for both casual and semi-casual occasions. It has just the right amount of character to stand out without being overwhelming. Whether you’re headed to a Sunday flea market or meeting friends for coffee, this shirt works effortlessly.
Are Men Really Buying More Traditional Prints in 2025?
Yes, and not just in India. Across global markets, there's a resurgence of interest in traditional crafts and prints. From Japanese indigo dyeing to African mud cloth to Indian block print, men’s fashion is seeing a wave of artisanal influences. The shift is being driven largely by Millennials and Gen Z, who are looking for fashion that’s unique, sustainable, and meaningful. They’re less interested in over-produced logos and more into owning pieces that spark conversation.
SEVN SIGNAL is proud to be part of this wave by offering designs that are rooted in Indian textile tradition while being modern in cut, fit, and styling. Our Yellow Full Sleeve Cotton Shirt Kurta is a great example; it’s cheerful, breathable, and made with soft cotton, but its silhouette and tailoring make it feel contemporary. The shirt kurta style allows for a hybrid approach to dressing, somewhere between formal and relaxed, ethnic and Western.
What Occasions Can You Wear Block Print Shirts Kurta?
Block print isn't just back, it's becoming occasion-neutral. Whether you're going to an art gallery, a laid-back dinner party, or even working from a café, block-printed shirt kurtas are an easy style win. They communicate effort, taste, and cultural connection—all without being too loud or flashy.
A prime example is SEVN SIGNAL’s Pink Full Sleeve Shirt Kurta. The soft, dusty pink hue pairs beautifully with natural block prints, making it suitable for both day and evening wear. You can roll up the sleeves for a more casual vibe or keep them buttoned for a refined appearance. Pair it with slim trousers and Kolhapuris or even white sneakers, depending on the mood.
This versatility is what’s fuelling block print’s comeback. It works with different dress codes. It flatters different skin tones. And it suits various body types because the prints break up solid colour blocks and add visual interest.
Block Print vs Machine Print: Why Handmade Still Wins
One of the biggest misconceptions in fashion today is that digital or machine printing offers the same aesthetic as block printing. While it may replicate the design, it fails to capture the soul. Machine prints are often too uniform, too perfect, lacking the human nuance and charm that block print carries. Every block-printed shirt or kurta has slight imperfections. These aren’t flaws; they’re proof that real artisans touched the fabric.
This is what makes pieces like the Black Grey Full Sleeves Shirt Kurta so valuable. The intricate contrast between black and grey patterns on this shirt kurta doesn’t just look stylish; it feels alive. The patterns reflect light differently at every angle, and the fabric itself ages beautifully. It’s a piece that will evolve with you, wear after wear.
Is Block Print Sustainable Fashion?
More than ever, men are making eco-conscious fashion choices, and block printing aligns beautifully with this mindset. The process uses natural dyes, hand-carved wood blocks, and minimal machinery. It also creates less industrial waste compared to large-scale digital printing. When combined with organic or natural cotton fabrics, block print becomes a truly sustainable choice.
At SEVN SIGNAL, our focus has always been to create timeless pieces, not trend-based fast fashion. We work with craftspeople who understand and respect the art of block printing, ensuring that each shirt or kurta is made responsibly. Our aim is to offer a curated collection that supports Indian textile traditions while giving men a refined and stylish alternative to mass-produced clothing.
How to Take Care of Block Print Shirts and Kurtas
To ensure your block-printed garments last long, a little extra care goes a long way. Since many of them use natural dyes and soft cotton, it's best to hand-wash or use a gentle machine cycle with mild detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach. Dry them in shade to retain the vibrancy of the print. Iron on the reverse side if necessary.
These aren’t high-maintenance garments, but they do reward attention. Over time, the fabric softens, and the prints develop a beautiful lived-in feel, something no machine-made shirt can replicate.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Try Block Print Today
In a world where trends come and go at lightning speed, block print is a timeless statement. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling connected to craftsmanship, to culture, and to individuality. As more men embrace slow fashion and start investing in meaningful pieces, block print is finding its rightful place in the modern wardrobe.
Whether you're just starting to explore ethnic fashion or you’ve always loved handmade textiles, there’s no better time to try block-printed shirts and kurtas. At SEVN SIGNAL, we’re proud to bring this rich heritage into the now, offering styles that are breathable, bold, and made to last.
Explore our full collection today and rediscover fashion that tells a story.
