Does it come stitched?
No. The set comes as unstitched fabric in three pieces: a top, or kurta, piece of 2.5 to 3.0 metres, a bottom piece of 2.4 to 2.5 metres and a dupatta of 2.4 to 2.5 metres. That lets your tailor cut it to your measurements, with the neckline, sleeve and length you prefer.
Does royal blue suit fair skin?
Royal blue flatters fair skin by adding contrast; on wheatish and dusky skin it looks equally rich. If you're very fair, a rose or berry lip keeps the strong blue from overpowering your face. Silver keeps it cool; gold warms it up and brings out the brocade.
Do the pieces match?
Yes. The set is in one violet-leaning royal blue, with small gold leaf buti and a gold zari border of large teardrop motifs, finished with tassels. Because the colour and the gold work tie together, it looks coordinated even with the simplest drape.
How does the dupatta finish at the ends?
With a gold zari border of large teardrop motifs, finished with tassels. The teardrop border is the dressiest part of the dupatta, so let it fall in front when you drape it over one shoulder, and pin it from the inside so the silk stays put.
What style of bottom can I get from the bottom piece?
With 2.4 to 2.5 metres, most tailors can make straight pants, cigarette pants or a regular salwar for most sizes. A very full patiala or a wide palazzo may need more, so check with your tailor. Straight pants keep the look sleek for a dinner; a salwar feels more traditional for festive days.
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.
Which kurta styles show off brocade well?
Straight, A-line and slightly flared kurtas with few seams show the most brocade. A high, round or boat neck keeps the front panel uninterrupted, and three-quarter or full sleeves frame it nicely. Heavy pleating or many panels chop up the woven pattern, so keep those for plainer fabrics.