Is this set tonal?
Yes, in cool shades. The kurta fabric is a dark navy with soft lilac arrow ikkat motifs, and the dupatta is a royal blue linen with silver dots, a silver border band and tassels. With no warm colour in the mix, it looks calm and is very easy to wear to work.
What bottom works with it?
White or lilac picks up the ikkat and the dupatta's silver; navy or royal blue keeps it tonal. Silver jewellery suits the silver on the dupatta, and navy or white footwear finishes the outfit neatly. Keep the bottom plain so the ikkat stays the focus.
What is in the set?
Two pieces: unstitched kurta fabric in cotton ikkat, about 2.4 to 2.5 metres long and 44 inches wide, and a pure linen dupatta of about 2.3 to 2.4 metres by 32 to 33 inches. A bottom is not included, so you can pair it with something you already own.
How is ikkat made?
Ikkat is a resist-dyeing technique: the yarns are tied in sections and dyed before weaving, and the bindings can be changed to dye again in another colour. The pattern appears as the dyed yarns are woven. On this set it shows as lilac arrows on the navy kurta fabric.
How should I wash the two pieces?
Both pieces involve hand-dyed yarns, so wash them separately, especially the first few times, in cold water with a mild detergent, and dry them in the shade. Since the kurta and dupatta are in different colours, never wash them together or leave them damp in a pile.
Is it comfortable in the heat?
Yes. The kurta fabric is cotton and the dupatta is pure linen, which is breathable and prized for keeping you cool in hot weather. The set is light enough for long office days, summer outings and travel, and the linen dupatta grows softer with each wash.