Noor-e-Banaras Brocade Weaving Lichi Silk Brown Suit (T+B+D)

How large are the flowers in the border?

They're bold: floral vines in magenta, orange and green, set in a wide gold band along the hem. Above that band the fabric has only small gold butis on the deep brown-maroon ground, so once stitched the border is the clear focal point of the outfit.

What does (T+B+D) in the name mean?

It stands for Top, Bottom and Dupatta, the three pieces in the set. All three come as unstitched fabric: 2.5 to 3.0 metres for the kurta, 2.4 to 2.5 metres for the bottom, and a dupatta of 2.4 to 2.5 metres. You'll need a tailor for the kurta and the bottom.

How is the dupatta patterned?

The dupatta is covered in a gold floral jaal, a connected network of flowers woven in zari, so it carries more pattern than the kurta fabric with its small gold butis. Keep jewellery simple, perhaps gold jhumkas, so the dupatta and the wide floral border stay the focus.

How heavy is the set?

The three unstitched pieces weigh about 500 gm together. The final weight of the outfit depends on your cut and any lining you add, so ask your tailor for a light lining if you plan to wear it through a long festive evening.

What kind of lining works under silk brocade?

Soft cotton is the comfortable choice for long days, since it sits against the skin. Crepe or shantoon gives a smoother fall under a flared cut. Ask your tailor to line the kurta fully, match the lining colour closely and finish the edges so the brocade's reverse threads stay covered.

Can I wear the dupatta with other outfits?

Yes. At 2.4 to 2.5 metres with woven brocade, it's a full-length dupatta that can lift a plain kurta or a simple solid suit. Pair it with a neutral or a complementary shade so the brocade stays the focus, and you have a second outfit from the same set.