Noor-e-Banaras Zari Brocade Mustard Yellow Silk Suit (T+B+D)

What pairs with the yellow?

The yellow here pairs well with maroon, bottle green, navy or teal accents, and the peacock border already carries red and green to pick from. Gold and kundan jewellery suit its warmth, and ivory or tan footwear keeps it relaxed. Keep jewellery moderate so the zari border stays the focus.

How much of the fabric is patterned?

Away from the border, the base carries only small gold butis spaced well apart, so most of the surface reads calm. The peacock border is where the colour and zari concentrate, which makes it easy to keep the look quiet for a dinner or let the border lead at a festive gathering.

Is the zari woven in or embroidered?

Woven in. The work is brocade zari weaving, so the metallic zari threads form the pattern on the loom rather than being stitched on afterwards. That gives the motifs a slight raised texture and a sheen that catches the light as you move.

How much fabric is in each piece?

Top: 3.0 to 3.1 metres. Bottom: 2.4 to 2.5 metres. Dupatta: 2.4 to 2.5 metres. The three pieces together weigh about 500 gm. Share these numbers with your tailor when you discuss the design, so the cut you choose fits the fabric you have.

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.

Any tips I should pass on to my tailor?

Three things help with brocade. Overlock or bind the seams, because woven patterns can fray once cut. Plan the layout so motifs sit centred on the front and upright on the sleeves. And keep the design simple, with few darts and seams, so the woven pattern isn't broken up.