Does the top fabric have any pattern?
Yes, fine tonal pinstripes run through the Katan silk. They are subtle, more texture than print, and give the top a quiet sheen. Ask your tailor to keep the stripes vertical for a lengthening effect.
Any tailoring tips?
Ask for neatly finished seams so the kurta wears well. Match the stripes at the side seams and centre front for a neat result. A straight or A-line kurta makes good use of the 2.4 to 2.5 metres and lets the dupatta sit cleanly over it.
What size is the dupatta, and what's on it?
It is 2.3 to 2.4 metres long and 32 to 33 inches wide, in mauve linen. A pink band with an olive edge runs along it, and lime and pink tassels finish the ends, giving the tonal set a bright touch.
Will it be comfortable in summer?
Linen is made from flax fibre, which breathes well and keeps you cool in hot weather. The dupatta stays light on the shoulders, and a loose-fitting kurta cut keeps the silk top comfortable through the day.
How should I wash it?
Dry cleaning is the preferred option. At home, wash the top and dupatta separately, since the set is hand-dyed, gently by hand with a mild detergent, and dry them in the shade. This keeps the orchid-pink top and mauve dupatta looking even and fresh.
What do I get in the set?
An unstitched Katan silk top piece, 2.4 to 2.5 metres long and 44 inches wide, and a pure linen dupatta. No bottom fabric is included, so you can choose your own salwar, churidar or palazzo.