Batik Breeze Black Pure Cotton Kota Doria Saree

What is the print like on this one?

It is a dense geometric jaal of small white star flowers set in a grid, broken up by dotted white bands. The repeat is tight and orderly, so the saree looks neat and tailored rather than floral. The border has a dotted white band above a thin gold-toned edge.

Why is the pallu end plain?

The pallu drops the star-flower grid for a plain dark block. Draped, it gives the eye a rest from the busy body and makes the pleats look sharper by contrast. It also makes accessorising easy, since a statement necklace won't have to compete with print.

How is this batik made?

Each star flower and dot is laid down in wax by hand before the cloth is dyed; the wax holds back the colour and leaves the white pattern behind. It is made at the Indiehaat unit in Kota under master artisan Haq Nawaz, so the grid has small irregularities and each saree varies slightly.

What petticoat works under such a sheer fabric?

Kota Doria is a sheer weave with fine square checks, so a petticoat in a matching dark tone works best. It keeps the ground looking deep and solid behind the white print. Light petticoats show through and can make the colour look patchy.

Any blouse styling ideas?

With a deep ground and white print, you can go classic with a white or silver-grey blouse, or warm it up with mustard, rose or copper. A sleeveless or elbow-sleeve cotton blouse keeps it office-ready, while a brocade blouse dresses it up for festive wear.

What care does it need?

Wash it by itself, gently by hand, in cold water with a mild detergent, as hand-dyed grounds can release some colour. Dry it in the shade. Dry cleaning works too. Fold it into a muslin cloth for storage, away from damp and direct light.