Syaahi Mangalagiri Silk Pure White Dupatta

What is the design like?

A rainbow block of painted figures in pink, orange, blue, green, yellow and purple sits on an off-white ground, then fades into scattered leaf-like dots. A narrow blue-grey edge finishes it, and the off-white ground keeps the colours looking fresh.

What can I wear it with?

The off-white ground goes with almost any colour. Try it with a pastel kurta for daytime, or a deep shade like teal, wine or navy to make the rainbow figures stand out. It also sits well over a plain white set for a fresh summer look.

Will the colours mark the white ground?

Gentle washing helps keep the white ground clean. Hand wash it separately in cool water with a mild detergent, and don't soak it for long, so the painted colours don't travel into the white. Dry it flat or hung in the shade.

What size is it?

It measures 2 to 2.25 metres long and 35 to 36 inches wide, enough for a full drape over both shoulders or a single-shoulder pin, with the rainbow block sitting at the front and the dots trailing behind.

Is it Kalamkari work?

It is hand painted on Mangalagiri silk. The figures are drawn in the style of Kalamkari, but the craft here is hand painting, and each piece is painted individually, so small irregularities are part of its character.

How does it drape?

Mangalagiri silk has a rich texture, and at 35 to 36 inches wide there is enough fabric for a comfortable drape. Let the painted block sit at the front of the shoulder, so the scattered dots trail softly down the back.