What does the saree look like?
The mid-grey sheer body has small floral butis scattered across it, and a bright pink bandhani-dot band with scalloped gold and silver gota trim runs along the pallu side and base. The warm pink border brings life to the cool grey.
What blouse suits this saree?
A pink blouse picks up the bandhani border. If you'd rather go quieter, a silver or charcoal blouse lets the gotta shimmer stand out. Oxidised silver jewellery suits it and keeps the look light for a brunch or a festive afternoon.
What is kachi gotta work?
It is a Rajasthani embroidery where small pieces of gold or silver fabric, called gottas, are sewn onto the surface of the cloth to build patterns. The gottas are usually held down with decorative stitching, so the motifs shimmer and also read as embroidery.
How do I look after the gota work when I wash it?
Hand wash gently with a mild detergent, keep the saree separate from other clothes, and dry it in the shade rather than in direct sun. Avoid twisting it to wring, handle the gota portions softly, and store it folded in a cotton or muslin cloth so the ribbon doesn't rub against other pieces.
Is the blouse fabric included, or do I buy it separately?
It is included. The package has one saree of 5.4 to 5.5 metres with an 80 cm blouse piece, which your tailor can cut and stitch to your fit. Choose a neckline that keeps the look light, in keeping with the airy Kota cotton.
Will it stay comfortable through a long, hot function?
That is what Kota cotton does best. It is a light, breathable pure cotton with an airy khat-check weave, made for hot weather. The gota adds a little body only where it is stitched, so the saree stays easy to carry from a morning celebration to a relaxed afternoon lunch.