Noor-e-Banaras Cotton Suit (T+B+D) Light Blue

What design does this set carry?

A honeycomb trellis covers the powder blue fabric, set with floral sprigs in pink, orange and green, and a floral vine border with a zig-zag edge frames it. The warm flowers stand out nicely against the cool, pastel blue.

What comes in the package?

Three unstitched pieces: fabric for the kurta, fabric for the bottom and a dupatta. The top fabric is 3.0 to 3.1 metres, and the bottom and dupatta are 2.4 to 2.5 metres each. Show them to your tailor before deciding on the cut.

Which accessories go with light blue and florals?

Pick a warm colour from the flowers: a coral or orange potli, or pink earrings. Silver keeps it cool and fresh, while gold adds warmth. White or tan juttis work well for a brunch or a day at the office.

Will the colours run?

To be safe, wash it separately, especially the first few times. Dry cleaning is preferred; if you hand wash, use cold water and a mild detergent, don't soak it for long, and dry it in the shade.

Is it comfortable in hot weather?

Yes. Banarasi cotton is lightweight and breathable, and it suits warmer climates well. If you want a lining, pick a thin cotton one. It's a good choice for long workdays at the office and daytime brunches when the weather is warm.

Is the pattern printed or woven?

It's woven. Brocade weaving adds decorative patterns into the fabric with extra threads during weaving, so the motifs sit slightly raised and are part of the cloth itself, not printed on top. You can see and feel the floral sprigs as texture.

Should I line a brocade cotton kurta?

Many people do, for comfort. Brocade is woven with extra threads for the pattern, and a light cotton lining gives a smooth layer against the skin. Ask your tailor for a thin, breathable lining in a shade close to the powder blue so it doesn't show at the hem.