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

The green looks olive. Where does it fit best?

This green reads olive, close to mehendi, with pale-gold zari motifs and a soft sheen. It is a festive suit first, and it carries easily into an evening dinner. Swap studs for jhumkas and drape the dupatta loosely for a dressier look. The gold hem band gives it enough interest that you won't need much else.

Where is the heavy work on the kurta?

At the hem. The kurta piece carries a pale-gold paisley-arch band along the bottom, with gold flower clusters placed above it, so it looks richest at the hem and lighter towards the shoulders. The dupatta adds to the look with a wide pale-gold scale-pattern border.

What is lichi silk, and how does it feel?

Lichi silk is a type of Banarasi silk woven with the lichi technique. It's known for a smooth texture and a lustrous finish, and it often carries intricate zari work. It drapes with a regal look, which is why it's a favourite for dressier suits and sarees.

Should I line the bottom as well?

For straight pants or a salwar in silk, a lining is a good idea, especially if you'll sit for long hours. It keeps the woven threads on the reverse away from your skin and helps the fabric last. Cotton works well; ask your tailor for a light lining so the bottom doesn't feel bulky.

Does brocade fray when it's cut?

It can. Brocade has extra threads woven in for the pattern, and cut edges loosen easily. Ask your tailor to overlock or tape the seams soon after cutting, leave a slightly wider seam allowance, and avoid unpicking seams again and again during fittings.

Will it look exactly like the photos?

Very close, with two caveats. Colours can look slightly different on different screens, and because this is a handcrafted product, small irregularities in the weave are part of its character rather than flaws. They make each piece slightly different and don't affect how it wears.