The Karbis, or Mikirs, form a community of indigenous people today living mainly in the southeastern hilly areas of Assam. The culture of this ethnos is greatly characterized through the colorful festivals and beautiful traditional attires. A truly special wear for Karbi men is the sleeveless embroidered coat that holds high cultural significance. Such a coat is made from striped cotton cloth, with stripes of maroon and off-white in varying bands, which is now bold and harmonious to the eye. The sleeveless coat is made by stitching two pieces of cloth, properly made with the neck and armholes open for movement and ventilation- perfect in the climate of the area.
The coat's specialty is the embroidered designs very carefully placed along both sides just below on the neckline opening and along the lower edges of the garment. Usually, these designs carry symbolic meanings and speak to the aesthetic sense of the tribe. The embroidery is done by threads matching or contrasting in shade with those of the fabric, thus enriching the depth and enhancing the traditional aesthetic quality of the design. The coat features long hanging maroon and off-white fringes from its lower hemline, which draw great attention, enhancing the glamour of the coat and providing it with a rhythmic flow as it moves with the wearer. Karbi men wear the sleeveless embroidered coat while celebrating, dancing, and engaging in cultural events, showcasing their pride in identity and heritage.