What scene is painted on the pallu?
The pallu shows a procession of painted figures riding a pink animal, in pink, green, blue and orange on the black ground, set between floral bands. A gold-green woven edge frames the saree, and a bright pink band finishes the hem.
How do I style a black saree with a busy pallu?
Pleat the body neatly and let the pallu fall open so the procession scene shows. A pink or green blouse picks up the painting, and gold jewellery suits the gold-green woven edge. Keep other accessories simple so the art leads.
Does it come with a blouse piece?
Yes. A blouse piece in the same soft silk comes attached to the saree. Ask your tailor to cut it off before draping and stitch it to your design. Because the painting is the focus, a simple, well-fitted blouse usually shows the saree off best.
How do I protect the painting?
Keep it to dry cleaning only, and keep the saree away from water, perfume and damp storage. If it ever gets damp, dry it in the shade. Store it in its own bag and change the folds regularly so the painted areas are not creased in the same place for long.
How does soft silk drape?
Soft silk has a smooth texture and a gentle sheen, and it falls fluidly rather than standing away from the body. The pleats sit soft and close, and the pallu flows well over the shoulder, which lets the painted panel hang flat and visible.
What blouse styles suit it?
Let the painting lead. A plain blouse in the saree's body colour or in a shade picked from the pallu, with a boat or round neck and elbow sleeves, looks elegant. For a festive occasion, a deeper back with tassels or a little zari edging adds dressiness without competing.