Handpainted Kota Doria Pink Suit (Top & Dupatta)

How does the hand painting show on this suit?

Orange flowers trail along green vines across the kurta fabric, painted by brush on Kota Doria at our Kota unit under master artisan Haq Nawaz. Because every flower is painted by hand, you will notice small changes in stroke and shading from one bloom to the next. That slight unevenness is the mark of real brushwork.

What is the dupatta like?

The dupatta is the same airy Kota Doria in a matching tone, about 2.3 to 2.4 metres long. It is sheer and light, so it sits softly on one shoulder or across both without weighing the outfit down, and the painted flowers on the kurta still show through when you drape it over the front.

Is the suit stitched, and what exactly do I receive?

It comes unstitched, as two pieces: fabric for the top and a dupatta. The top fabric is 2.4 to 2.5 metres long and 43 to 45 inches wide, which gives your tailor room to choose the neckline, sleeve style and length you like. There is no bottom in this set, so you can pick your own.

Will I need a lining for the kurta?

Yes, we would suggest one. Kota Doria is a sheer, open weave, so a soft cotton lining in a matching or light tone makes the kurta comfortable for office hours and keeps the painted flowers looking crisp against a solid base. Lining fabric is not part of this set, so pick it up when you take the fabric to your tailor.

Which bottoms go well with it?

Since the set has no bottom, pick one that echoes the painting. Olive or leaf-green palazzos pick up the vines, an off-white churidar keeps it soft and light, and a rust or orange straight pant brings out the flowers. Plain cotton bottoms let the hand-painted kurta stay the focus.

How should I wash it?

Hand wash gently in cold water with a mild detergent, and wash it separately from other clothes. Do not scrub or wring the painted areas; press the water out softly instead. Dry it in the shade, since strong sun can dull hand-applied colour over time.