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

What footwear goes with maroon?

Gold or antique-gold juttis are classic with maroon. Tan or nude block heels keep it modern, and black works after dark. For contrast, mustard or bottle-green juttis add a traditional touch. A gold potli or a brown leather bag finishes the look without competing with the brocade.

What is the floral jaal like?

The floral jaal is on the dupatta: gold zari florals woven in a connected trellis over the plum maroon, so it catches the light and makes the dupatta the dressiest piece of the set. The top carries gold leaf buti and a patterned gold zari end border, with tassels at the ends.

Is the pattern woven in or printed?

Woven in. Brocade weaving builds the decorative pattern into the cloth on the loom, often with metallic threads, so the raised motifs are part of the fabric rather than printed on top. Here the gold leaf buti, the patterned end border and the dupatta jaal are all woven in zari.

Does the kurta need a lining?

We'd recommend one. A lining keeps the woven reverse of the brocade away from your skin and makes the kurta more comfortable through a festive evening or a dinner. A soft cotton lining is comfortable; crepe or satin gives a smoother fall.

Can my tailor make an anarkali from it?

It depends on the flare and your size. With 2.5 to 3.0 metres of top fabric, a gently flared or A-line kurta is usually comfortable, while a full-circle anarkali often needs more. Brocade also has a direction, so ask your tailor to plan the panels before cutting to keep the motifs upright.

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.